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Peter Heathwood Collection
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Listing of Programmes for the Year: 2015 248 Programmes
Date Broadcast:
Thu 1st Jan 2015
3 mins 14 secs
Broadcast Company:
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
BBC1 NI
BBC Newsline
Programme Title:
A 19 year old woman has been stabbed in Lisburn, film report. In Magherafelt the home of a 70 year old pensioner has been petrol bombed, film report with home owner Roberta Wilson interview. A police legacy unit has today taken over the Bloody Sunday inquiry and the review of the so called On The Run letters sent to over 200 republicans. Film report from Vincent Kearney. (6:30pm Thurs)
DVD No.
Tape No.
Record No.
Fri 2nd Jan 2015
In Omagh 7 members of a family escaped injury when shots were fired in to their home, film report with UUP's Ross Hussey MLA's reaction. In courts a 21 year old man Curtis Orr charged with attempted murder of his sister whom he stabbed in Lisburn yesterday, the Alliance Justice Minister D Ford says a lot of work still needs done to implement the Stormont House Agreement. Film reports on deadlines and targets on corporation tax, budgets, welfare reform, opposition at Stormont etc, commentator Alan Meban comments on pre May election and post May election targets, like flags commission in June and parading code of conduct, plus cuts in MLAs and Stormont departments and an oral history archive by 2016. (6:30pm Fri)
Raidio Teilifis Eireann (RTE)
RTE1
Mairead Farrell
In Irish with English subtitles this documentary looks at the life and death of PIRA volunteer Mairead Farrell, shot dead in 1998 by the SAS in Gibraltar along with Sean Savage and Danny McCann. Programme begins with TV interview with Mairead Farrell just after her release from prison talking about the mood in Belfast at that time, at the beginning a news report shows the Gibraltar 3 aftermath and reaction of Irish PM Charles Haughey. After opening titles the programme presenter who knew Mairead explains why she undertook making this programme about her then an interview with Mairead from a documentary called Living on the Falls Road is shown, she recalls becoming involved in the republican movement, then the presenter describes Mairead's early background and her holidays in County Leitrim. Sean O'sullivan recalls her visits with early photos of her, he describes the republican influences on her in that area, then a recording of Mairead talking about Armagh jail inmate she talked to is played. The TV presenter who recorded it comments on the effect of Mairead's death on her, then Brian Feeney talks about NI politics in the early 1970s and the disastrous behaviour of the British army who were republican recruiting agents, he says joining the PIRA gave you a life expectancy of 6 months. The presenter says M Farrell told her the things she witnessed that made her a republican, Bombay Street 1969 burnt down by Loyalists, old photos shown, then the Falls Road curfew and house raids, photos shown, even when Mairead's family moved out of the lower Falls and up the Falls, the British army was always present. A friend of Mairead's called Geraldine recalls life on the Falls in those days and close family connections split up by redevelopments, she recalls effect of August 1971 internment on kids their age, Geraldine wasn't surprised Mairead joined the IRA. Historian Ruan O'Donnell gives his analysis of Mairead's role in the PIRA and the role of women, she had a choice, college or the IRA. In 1976 Mairead took part in a bomb attack on the Conway Hotel with Kieran Doherty, news paper clip shown. In a voice recording she recalls the bomb attack, they were arrested after planting the bombs, one bomber Sean McDermott was shot dead by the RUC. Mairead got 14 years in jail, paper report shown, the presenter then looks at the prison, protests over loss of political status in the H-Blocks and Armagh jail where Mairead was the OC of the women prisoners, film clip of Mairead's comments on the women's role is shown, two fellow prisoners Mary Doyle and Sinead Moore recall Mairead's role in the prison and her leadership, then prison chaplain father Raymond Murray recalls his role in in the prison for the 30 to 40 prisoners, he recalls the tension in the prison and on 07/02/1980 called Black Friday the prisoners were beaten by male prison officers, photo shown of prisoner's commemoration for dead IRA volunteers in prison yard. Doyle/Moore recall Black Friday attack and the aftermath, then Danny Morrison who was Sinn Fein's press officer in those days recalls his visits to Armagh jail to visit Mairead during the no wash protests, photo shown of Mairead on protest. Doyle/Moore recall women discussing them going on hunger strike, on 1st December 1980 Ryan O'Donnell comments on the women's hunger strike, the first hunger strike ended, the men planned a second one but this time the women didn't participate, news report on Sand's death shown, recording of Mairead's reaction played, Brian Feeney comments on 1981 being turning point in troubles with Sands election. R O'Donnell on 1986 Ard Fheis decision to fight elections, TV Interview with Mairead at the Ard Fheis, she had started a course at QUB, TV Presenter recalls how she heard about Mairead's death in Gibraltar, she didn't know Mairead was back in PIRA, she visits Gibraltar and explains the events of that day, the Royal Anglican regiments changing of guard ceremony, film clip shown, R O'Donnell comments on Mairead's role then Brian Feeney's views and informers in Belfast, then Geoffrey Howe, a British cabinet minister in 1988 says they knew for a long time the IRA was in Gibraltar, he defends the SAS killing of the 3 unarmed IRA personnel. Tom king was NI Sec at the time, in his interview he understands the 'nervousness' of the soldiers then the soldier's version of the shooting is previewed. Sean Savage was killed 100 yards away from the other two, photos shown, witnesses gave different accounts to the SAS one. Stephen Bullock and Carmen Proetta mentioned then both recall their inquest evidence, newspaper clips shown saying the trio's car didn't contain explosives but a car in Marbella contained a semtex bomb. Geoffrey Howe refuses to doubt the decision of 1988 looking back, Sinn Fein's Joe Austin then recalls the difficulty getting the 3 bodies back to Ireland, he calls it a 10 day nightmare, then the funerals and Michael Stone attack, film clips shown, the presenter recalls her reaction to that week when two British corporals were also shot dead by the PIRA at a funeral in Andersonstown, film clip shown then closing remarks on the truth about Mairead Farrell and why did she die.
Mon 5th Jan 2015
Independent Television (ITV)
UTV (Ulster Television)
UTV News
Headlines then after the Stormont house agreement it's day 542 at camp Twaddell and the orange order ad unionist parties are angry at NI Sec T Villers cancelling a panel of inquiry into the Ardoyne parades situation, film report with DUP's P Robinson's reaction, then UUP's M Nesbitt's views, then PUP's B Hutchinson suspects a behind the doors deal was done, then Sinn Fein's Carol Ni Chuillin's reaction then in the studio Ken Reid gives his analysis of the situation and the possible negative effects on the Stormont house agreement and the pressure on NI Sec T Villers. (10:30pm Mon)
Tue 6th Jan 2015
8 mins 8 secs
In Ballymoney Brian McIlhagga (42) was dragged from his home and beaten in front of children by a gang of men and then shot him in the leg, he died of his injuries, film report with neighbour Ivy Owens' reaction then PSNI DCI Michael Harvey's views, then DUP MLA Mervyn Storey's reaction. In Newry courts Orla O'Hanlon (19) and her boyfriend Keith McCollum (20) were charged with running a Dissident Republican bomb factory in Forkhill in December 2013, film report. In Derry the homes of 4 relatives of PSNI officers have been attacked, also in Derry IND Councillor Gary Donnelly has won his appeal against a 6 month jail sentence for criminal damage to the city's historic city walls. Film report names his County defendants with Gary Donnelly's reaction. The Orange Order has met NI unionist parties to discuss the NIO decision not to go ahead with forming a parades disputes panel about North Belfast. (6:30pm Tues)
Wed 7th Jan 2015
Headlines then in Westminster NI Sec T Villers announces Government move to give Stormont control over setting Corporation Tax rate but there are worries the labour party won't back the moves, film report with T Villers' interview, also in Westminster DUP MP N Dodds asked T Villers about her U-turn on setting up a review panel to examine the North Belfast parades impasse at Ardoyne, T Villers says the panel hasn't enough support. Former PM T Blair is to give evidence to the NI Affairs committee at Westminster on his handling of the OTR issue, film report on pressure put on T Blair to appear by the speaker, with DUP's Ian Paisley Jnr's reaction, but also today NI Sec T Villers refused to let top civil servant who signed John Downey's OTR letter appear before the committee. (6:30pm Wed)
Thu 8th Jan 2015
Headlines then a Chinese shop owner in Randalstown known as Nelson stabbed to death during a robbery and his wife injured, film report with reactions of neighbour Zoe Price and businessman Roy Picken then DUP MLAs Trevor Clarke's views and Randalstown CBI secretary Michael McKay's comments. PSNI have arrested a man and a woman, also PSNI have arrested two men in connection with the Ballymoney murder of Brian McIlhagga on Tuesday. NI Sec T Villers has published the legislation due to give NI control over Corporation Tax rates, film report from business editor Jamie Delargey with Camlin Group's John Cunningham's views, then Kevin Kingston of NI CBI's views, then Grow NI's Eamon Donaghy's views but Trade Union's Bumper Graham (NIPSA) isn't as happy about the move, T Villers comments on the Labour Party's view as does DUP's P Robinson. A viable bomb addressed to the PSNI Chief Constable was defused at PSNI HQ today. (10:30pm Thurs)
Mark Carruthers talks to local politicians M Nesbitt (UUP) Conor Murphy (Sinn Fein) N Long (Alliance) G Campbell (DUP) and A Attwood (SDLP) to discuss the Stormont House Agreement with only two of the 5 parties totally supporting the deal, will it solve Stormont's current problems, they discuss their parties positions and to what degree they support the deal but first a film report reviews what exactly was in the SHA, on welfare reform, £2b spending package over 10 years, public sector assets, a quango on flags and parades, then Gareth Gordon film report looks at whether the SHA can stay the course with film clips of the comments of the party negotiators during December and views of Michael McKernan a former Stormont special advisor on the 'overblown fanfare' then economist Esmond Birnie views on the budget situation now, then CBI's Kevin Kingston tells politicians failure is not an option. On Legacy issues information retrieval unit and replacement for HET is proposed, WAVE's Sandra Peake wants more details on how it will all work, parades and flags issues have been put on the long finger but Peter Osborne former parades commission chairman says half a deal is better than none, then Mark Carruthers ask N Long for Alliance's position on the deal, only they and Sinn Fein support it, she explains why they do but is cautious in her optimism, then UUP's M Nesbitt outlines his views and he's cautious about the enabling legislation and doesn't believe finances are fixed, the UUP will give it a fair wind he says but wary of side deals. A Attwood explains his measured support on implementation of good bits of SHA, he wants bill of rights and Irish language act which hardly got a mention. DUP's G Campbell praises the SHA decisions on welfare reform avoiding catastrophe and Corporation Tax, he wants more done on parades, then Conor Murphy reckons G Campbell is happy because there's no Irish language act in the SHA, he also says we are in a better place than before Christmas but some issues still need dealt with, he lists them, he asks when did he find out T Villers was scrapping the parades forum idea, the morning of the agreement says C Murphy, he's questioned about when unionists told, he didn't know, then A Attwood and M Nesbitt's counter views if NI Sec's decision, then N Long's point of view, the panel had no legs, then G Campbell says T Villers had selected a panel and backed off when smaller parties withdrew from unionist combine. On welfare reform C Murphy is asked to explain their position now in the SHA and what is new that allows them to support the SHA and what new resources are available, he's questioned on his answers by Mark Carruthers. M Nesbitt says Sinn Fein bought into welfare reform then Attwood comments on the mitigating fund of £90m a year then N Long comments on the squandered penalty money paid to London. DUPS G Campbell says the DUP didn't roll over and accept Tory reforms, now let's get deal implemented. C Murphy denies Sinn Fein rolled over on welfare reform then commentators Prof D Heenan and Rick Wilford give their analysis of the SHA and the politician's comments on the deal and problems the see up ahead on economic issues. D Heenan says Sinn Fein have rolled over on welfare reform, programme ends with a comic routine by Harry Enfield on Paisley and G Adams on doing a deal. (Thurs)
Fri 9th Jan 2015
Chinese business man Nelson Cheung was killed in a robbery for only several hundred Pounds in Randalstown, film report with local man Brian Johnston's comments then Michael McKay then Liam Quinn. PSNI have arrested 3 people in connection with the murder. A third man has been arrested in connection with the murder of Brian McIlhagga in Ballymoney on Monday. (6:30pm Fri)
Mon 12th Jan 2015
Headlines then Belfast Muslim leader Dr Rajid Wasan has apologised for remarks he made after the Islamic terror attack on Paris, film report on the controversial remarks about Mosul with reaction of Pastor James McConnell then the DUP's Sammy Wilson has questioned whether the Belfast Islamic centre should continue the receive public funding. Stormont has elected its first nationalist republican speaker, Sinn Fein's Mitchell McLaughlin, film report from Gareth Gordon with DUP's P Robinson's comments, then Sinn Fein's M McGuinness' reaction then TUV's Jim Allister's angry reaction to the move, he says the DUP should hang its head in shame then M McLaughlin clashes with Jim Allister over PIRA killing of speaker Norman Strong in the 1970s. (6:30pm Mon)
Stormont Today
Mark Carruthers covers the election of Sinn Fein's Mitchel McLaughlin as Stormont speaker with DUP support, the first ever nationalist or republican to hold that post, he reviews the 2011 deal done by Sinn Fein and the DUP to split the mandate time with a DUP then Sinn Fein speaker but it didn't happen when William Hay stood down last year. Film clip shows nominations, M McLaughlin (Sinn Fein) J Dallat (SDLP). DUP's P Robinson backs Sinn Fein nomination then SDLP's A McDonnell's reaction and UUP's M Nesbitt accusation of side deals. Alliance's D Ford backs M McLaughlin then TUV's Jim Allister calls it a side deal as M McLaughlin is unelectable he says. M McLaughlin was elected by 72 votes to 12, afterwards Mark Davenport interviews him on possible difficulties he might face in remaining independent of party politics, his views on flags and symbolism in Stormont, his comments on the PIRA murder of Jean McConville and of a previous Stormont speaker Norman Strong denying they were crimes, he says he has not stepped back from party politics and won't be drawn in to remarks made 16 years ago. In the studio BBC political editor Chris Page comments on the Unionist reaction to his election as speaker today and the symbolism of the vote. He reviews M McLaughlin's political career to date. (Tues)
Tue 13th Jan 2015
Former British PM Tony Blair gave evidence to the Westminster NI Affairs committee inquiry into the OTR's today, film report covers Blair's views without the OTR scheme the peace process could have collapsed, the political process was on a knife edge over the issue. Reporter Stephen Walker gives his analysis of the OTR scheme and T Blair's case reviewed. Ian Paisley Jnr asks T Blair to apologise to PIRA Hyde Park bomb victims' families, Blair explains his position on apology and debates it with Paisley Jnr. Unionist MP Sylvia Hermon tackles Blair about Sinn Fein accepting policing being on a knife edge which he denies, he said the OTR scheme was not a secret and it was lawful because those sent letters were not wanted for prosecution, then Chris Daly the brother of a soldier killed in the Hyde Park bomb gives his views on Blair's comments. At the inquest into the UVF murder of Roseanne Mallon in 1994 evidence is heard that Special Branch may have tampered with the murder weapon. Film report on inquest which resumed today 20 years after her death. Army spy equipment was found at the scene, the rifle was used in 8 other killings and firing pin had been filed down. (6:30pm Tues)
Former British PM Tony Blair is questioned by the NI Westminster committee on his Government's OTR scheme, he told the committee the whole peace process would have collapsed without the scheme. Film report from Ken Reid, Blair doesn't regret what he done he tells the committee. Paisley Jnr asks him to apologise to the victims in the room which he does partially. Afterwards Kenny Donaldson of Innocent Victims United gave his reaction. In a further report Sharon O'Neill gets the views of Kingsmill massacre survivor Alan Black to Tony Blair's interview as it's believed two Kingsmill gunmen got OTR letters, he believes there was a cover-up in the Kingsmill case, he is offended by Blair's defence of the scheme, he calls it one dirty deed after another and he will continue to fight for justice. Then Ken Reid gives his analysis of Tony Blair's performance and what was learned that was new and his apology of sorts to victim's families and their reaction afterwards. The inquest into the murder of Roseanne Mallon by the UVF in County Tyrone in 1994 has heard the firing pin of the murder weapon had been tampered with by a Special Branch Unit within the forensic science laboratory, film report covers allegation of collusion in the case, the inquest had been halted in December 2013 because murder rifle had been misidentified as never used in murders, scientist's evidence covered on forensic tests issue. (10:30pm Tues)
Wed 14th Jan 2015
Headlines then a former deputy head of RUC Special Branch and a number of retired MI5 officers are to be investigated for destroying vital evidence about the killing of Michael Tighe in November 1982, in one of the alleged shoot to kill incidents, film report on the DPP's decision to investigate from Vincent Kearney with old news clips related to the case and details of the missing tape recording contents, then DPP Barra McCrory's comments, then profile of survivor Martin McAuley later arrested in Colombia with PIRA unit training FARC rebels, his solicitor Peter Madden released a statement. In Dungannon the inquest in to the murder of Roseanne Mallon by the UVF has heard evidence from a Special Branch officer on the origin of the gun used, he said he didn't know if it was one of a consignment brought into NI by FRM agent Brian Nelson, he was questioned by Mallon family lawyer as was David Bradley from the Special Branch Forensics unit. (6:30pm Wed)
Headlines then DPP Barra McCrory has asked the Chief Constable and Police Ombudsman to carry out investigations into the actions of former deputy director of special branch and MI5 officers into a shoot to incident in November 1982 in which Michael Tighe (17) was shot dead and Martin McAuley was wounded, film report says tapes containing vital evidence may have been destroyed after the Lurgan hay shed shooting. Stalker and Sampson inquiries found the recordings were destroyed, DPP Barra McCrory gives his views on the case and why he wants an investigation of the criminal conspiracy, and then Peter Madden solicitor for Martin McAuley gives his opinions. Last night in the Village area there were 3 racist hate attacks, film report. (10:30pm Wed)
Thu 15th Jan 2015
Headlines then in Ballymena courts F Carera (33) Gary Thompson (32) and Christopher Menaw (25) were charged with last week's murder of Randalstown Chinese chippie owner Nelson Cheung (65) who was stabbed 17 times during a robbery, film report. The Stormont executive has agreed a budget for the next financial year by 9 votes to 4, film report with Gareth Gordon's analysis and comments of Sinn Fein's education minister John O'Dowd and DUP's finance minister Simon Hamilton. Also at Stormont today the TUV's Jim Allister has been accused of bullying a DUP special advisor Steven Brimstone as he gave evidence to a committee for the 5th time about political interference in the housing executive, film report with J Allister comments. With the new super councils due to begin operating in April, disputes from across all new councils, 9 out of the 11 have agreed a name, SDLP's Tom O'Henlon, DUP's Carla Lockhart comment on Armagh's name issue. (6:30pm Thurs)
Headlines then the Stormont executive has passed its budget for next year with £150m reallocated mostly to education. Film report from Tracy Magee includes DUP's finance minister Simon Hamilton's announcement and breakdown of were the £150m is to be spent. So far only the DUP have blocked the budget. Steven Farry (Alliance) defends their position on the budget, then TUV's Jim Allister's comments. At Westminster the NI Sec T Villers gave evidence to the NI committee's inquiry into the OTR scheme, she was accompanied by two former NIO officials Mark Sweeney and Simon Case. Film report with Mark Sweeney saying the scheme was lawful, he's questioned about the scheme's secrecy as is NI Sec T Villers who admitted the scheme wasn't transparent enough. Four men have been arrested by PSNI over the murder in Ballymoney two weeks ago of Brian McIlhagga. On Annadale embankment 26 year old man stabbed in the leg. (6pm Mon)
Headlines then in Craigavon council the unionists want to fly the union flag 365 days a year, film report covers the council paying £130,000 for an equality report which says they shouldn't fly it every day, and last night's council decision, then Sinn Fein Councillor Gemma McKenna's reaction, then the Orange Order's statement and DUP Councillor Carla Lockhart's support for it. (6:30pm Tues)
Mark Carruthers covers today's election at Stormont of the DUP MLA Robin Newton as the 'principal deputy' speaker following Sinn Fein's M McLaughlin becoming speaker. He interviews Robin Newton in the studio and what qualities and characteristics he has to be deputy speaker, in reply he highlights his time as Belfast City Councillor in Stormont committee's and on the policing board, he says he will work to the assembly protocols and be firm and fair, he explains why he is the principal deputy speaker and what that means, the role came in 2011 he explains. He says he'll adopt a team approach to working with Sinn Fein's M McLaughlin and the two other deputy speakers, then M Carruthers introduces a film report covering comments made at today's Stormont debate on the appointment of Robin Newton with views of P Robinson (DUP) C Ruane (Sinn Fein) Dolores Kelly (SDLP) then D Ford (alliance) then TUVS Jim Allister calls it a vanity post, then in the studio commentator Alex Kane gives his view on the principal deputy speaker's past. (Tues)
Wed 21st Jan 2015
Headlines then in courts the Omagh bomb victim's families have won the right to challenge British Government's decision not to hold an inquiry into the bombing, film report. Last night a small bomb was found at the Short Strand and defused, film report. In West Belfast a taxi was hijacked at knife point and police have arrested a 53 year old West Belfast man over the murder of former CIRA member Tommy Crossan (43) in April 2014, film report. At Stormont the public accounts committee has revealed that £19m of fines here remain uncollected, film report with statistics and accounts committee chairwoman Michaela Boyle's reaction. In West Belfast's Hawthorne Street a man was shot in his home 8 times in the legs and arms by a masked gang, film report with eye witness and neighbour SDLP Councillor Colin Keenan's comments. (6pm Wed)
INEZ: A Challenging Woman
This documentary explores the life of Inez McCormack, told in her own words months before she died, Inez was a Northern Ireland trade union leader and human right's campaigner, the programme uses old film clips and interviews with trade unionists and politicians including US Senator Hilary Clinton and former Irish president Mary Robertson, to tell of the contribution Inez McCormack made to society in NI and her involvement with the trade union movement. She died of cancer in 2015 (January) the current Irish president Michael D Higgins also praises Inez's contribution to Ni society. Inez herself recalls her involvement in anti-Vietnam war protests and the NI civil rights movement, the former CRA leader Michael Farrell recalls her role in the civil rights movement and at marches and how that affected her in that she became separated from the community she grew up in, he recalls her seeing her cousin, an RUC man policing one of the rallies. In 1969 she was in the CRA march attacked by the RUC and loyalists at Burntollet, old film clip shown and Inez describes what she witnessed, she recalls the hostile description of some social workers to Ballymurphy residents whom they called animals, then M Farrell on this motivation for Inez to improve their lot through her union the N.U. public employees she fought closing the Ballymurphy social services office. In 1976 she became the union's full time organiser, Rosaleen Davidson RVH 1974-97 recalls meeting Inez, then Mary Robinson's recollections, then Patricia McKeown former ICTU resident recalls 'foul laundry' dispute and Inez's role. Inez recalls difficulties she faced in early days within the unions because she was a woman, she cleared the way for other women who followed her, the IRA hunger strike affected attitudes in Irish America, Joe Jameson a former New York union leader recalls the change, Inez was invited to become one of 4 signatures to the Sean McBride principles which were opposed by the British Government. The principles wanted US firms in NI to hire workers without discrimination, film of Inez at the 1985 McBride hearings in New York, then Pat Doherty of the NY state comptroller's office praises her role, Inez recalls the threats against her, then Hillary Clinton former US Sec of state recalls Inez's leadership and their friendship. After the Good Friday agreement, unions began campaign to convince membership of it benefits, Patricia McKeown, Fiona McCausland comment, and then Hillary Clinton on Inez's role, then Melanne Verveer former US ambassador for global women's issues calls Inez a critical player in the GFA aftermath, Inez recalls her 39 meetings with the senior civil servants who were drafting the NI act. Inez also continued her work with disadvantaged communities like the seven towers projects in North Belfast. Dessie Donnelly of participation and the practice of rights explains the nature of their work, then Inez's views on widening gap between rich and poor. In 1999 Inez became first woman president of ICTU, she explains her disillusionment with the influence of the post, film clip of Meryl Streep's praise in 2006 who portrayed her story in a film titled Seven. Hillary Clinton comments, then Inez comments on her life now as she approaches death, then her husband's views on her death, then Patricia McKeown's views, then M Farrell, Mary Robinson.
Thu 22nd Jan 2015
Headlines then Labour party leader Ed Milliband visits NI and pledges NI won't be left behind if Labour wins power, film report on his comments from T Magee at the University of Ulster, he supports the Stormont house agreement including devolving Corporation Tax powers. Later he met first and deputy first ministers, Sinn Fein's M McGuinness comments on supporting the Stormont house agreement then P Robinson (DUP) says he can work with Labour party, then Ken Reid's analysis of Ed Milliband's visit and reaction to it and today's executive meeting at Stormont, Sinn Fein leader G Adams also met Ed Milliband about T.U. worries over civil service redundancies. In Derry, remains of a building dating back in 1601 have been found, film report with archaeologist Paul Logue's comments then views of Jim Brownlee the governor of the apprentice boys and SDLP environment minister Mark H Durkan on the artefacts found on the site. (6pm Thurs)
The inquest into the death and disappearance of Gareth O'Connor in 2003 has been halted when it became know that one of the suspects has wrongly received an OTR letter, film report from Sharon O'Neill reviews the G O'Connor case and the family's solicitor Paul Dugan's reaction to the OTR letter revelation, the role of Sinn Fein's G Kelly mentioned by the coroner then political fallout from today's development with SDLP's Dominic Bradley MLA questions Sinn Fein's G Kelly's role, then at Stormont G Kelly denies he has done anything wrong, then the DUP's G Campbell says the matter raises the issue of the validity of the OTR scheme, then in an interview from London MP Ian Paisley Jnr who sits on the Westminster NI affairs committee investigating the OTR scheme is shocked by the shambles and failures of the NIO's OTR scheme, he points out only devolution has stopped these shady deals, he want the Sec of state to state these letters are worthless even if that requires legislation. Next report from T Magee covers today's business at Stormont when Sinn Fein and the SDLP used petition of concern to block unionist action against the decision to open an Irish language primary school in Dungiven, film report with UUP's Danny Kinahan's objections to the school opening, then Sinn Fein's Cathal O'Hoisin's views, then parent's views on the new school, then T Magee and Ken Reid discuss the political fallout of the OTR revelations at the G O'Connor inquest and the issue raised by the DUP about the exclusion of the NI parties from the BBC TV leader's election debate with N Dodds (DUP) comments, then his views on Simon Hamilton (DUP) comments on Corporation Tax issue and news then on Jim Allister TUV not standing in election. (10:30pm Mon)
Headlines then the father of murder victim Gareth O'Connor has called on Sinn Fein MLA Gerry Kelly to resign over the latest OTR revelation regarding a murder suspect in the G O'Connor case. Film report reviews the case to date and how in 2003 then Chief Constable Hugh Orde said the PIRA was involved and also at that Sinn Fein's G Kelly refuted the allegation, film clip shown, then Gareth's father Mark O'Connor's views. In commons DUP's I Paisley Jnr asked the Ni Sec to have Gerry Kelly investigated. (6:30pm Tues)
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Headlines then a Tory election poster has been made showing Labour leader Ed Milliband with Sinn Fein's G Adams and it says they have made a post-election deal, film report also covers the BBC's decision not to invite NI parties on to the UK leaders debate with Mark Davenport's analysis and film clip of PM David Cameron's commons remarks on Labour and Sinn Fein. (6:30pm Wed)
Headlines then the family of 1997 murder victim Robert Hamill in Portadown have demanded answers from the department of justice after two discs containing files from his inquest went missing in the post, film report reviews the April 1997 murder by loyalists and his 2011 inquest inquiry and the reaction of Sinn Fein's MLA John O'Dowd. (10:30pm Thurs)
In North Belfast's Oldpark area a 50 year old man is seriously injured after being shot in the head in a take away, film report from Sharon O'Neill with SDLP's Alban Magennis' reaction, then views of DUP Councillor Brian Kingston. Also tonight in the New Lodge area a man was shot in the legs. Early yesterday a Pakistani man (29) was stabbed to death in the Botanic area, an African man was arrested, film report with murder victim's friend Olu Wakore Bellos' reaction. Sinn Fein's M McGuinness has dismissed an ulster unionist party claim that the Stormont house agreement is unravelling as 'silly'. Film report from T Magee with NI Sec T Villers' comments then UUP's Mike Nesbitt's remarks followed by seething reaction from Sinn Fein's M McGuinness. (10:30pm Fri)
Police believe Dissident Republicans may have shot the 52 year old man in the Oldpark area last night, he's still in serious condition, film report with Sinn Fein's G Kelly's comments then DUP's N Dodds' views. (6pm Sat)
Sun 1st Feb 2015
Ireland's Great War
This documentary profiles how Irish nationalists and unionist came together in the British army against Germany but done so for very different reasons. The programme uses old film clips and the views of academics Dermot Ferriter from Dublin, P Grayson from London and T Bowman from NI. The programme begins by examining the mood in Ireland leading up to 1914 when civil war looked possible as the UVF were formed in the north and Irish volunteers in Dublin, the academics profile the roles of Edward Carson and John Redmond, the formation of the 10th Irish division, profiling Michael Brennan (19) Catholic nationalists from West Belfast, his daughter Siobhan Deene tells his story and academics discuss views on the myth that nationalists didn't join the army in 1914 and unionists did, the 16th division was also formed containing mostly southern nationalists, academics discuss why nationalists joined. In October 1913 the 36th Ulster division was formed in Ulster, its make-up and motivation is discussed, the naval lodges at this time are profiled and the use of Lough Swilly for British Navy and the effect on the locals is highlighted. In Europe trench war is discussed as 3 Irish Divisions prepare to join the fighting in November 1914, the programme looks back at the training camp at Clandeboyle near Bangor with old photos and film clips. The academics discuss sectarianism and identity in the Irish divisions (10, 16 and 36) and tensions in the 36th division, the duty of catholic chaplains father Willie Doyle, Father Francis Brown, profiled with archivist views on father Brown, photographs of the trenches, and a soldier's view of the grim reality of trench warfare. May 7th 1915 Lituenia sank with 1200 loses, German's decide to up the naval war, Britain look to Gallipoli as trench war stalemate sets in. Academics discuss the effects of the Lithuensia sinking and the propaganda linked to it from both sides. June 1st 1915, 10th division joins fighting the role of land gentry, Brian Cooper profiled, in how it changed his life, his great grandson explains Cooper's role in the 10th Irish division. On July 5th he's sent to Turkey campaign at Gallipoli in December, they are evacuated with 200,000 UK casualties. B Cooper's book on this campaign quoted, he believed war could unite Irishmen, the Academics discuss the effect of Gallipoli in Ireland and reaction to Ireland's contribution to the war within unionism and nationalism, historian Gavin Hughes visits Island Bridge to view names of Irishmen who died as published in 1920s from all over Ireland. The 10th division moved to Greece, historian Richard Grayson searches for his great uncle James Power document in Lurgan, he places together September 25th death of his great uncle, postcard home profiled. In February 1926 his body was recovered and buried. In October, December, 16th and 36th arrive at Trenches, chlorine gas attack killed 538 Irish soldiers. In Dublin 1916 the rebellion begins the proclamation is highlighted and Pearce proclaims Ireland a Republic, Feargal McGarry comments on witness statements about the rising, he gives his perspective on the rising and who planned it, the outworking of the Easter walk fighting is profiled as British troops arrive. On Friday P Pearce surrenders. Witness statements read show examples of conflict within families, divided over the 1916 rising. 116 soldiers killed, 64 rebels killed, 250 civilians dead and the rising was put down. In Europe from February 1916 Germans begin offensive, Academics comment on the reaction in Europe to Irish rising and Irish soldiers in the British army, the also discuss the effect in Ireland to the rising and the British executions of Irish leaders but by July 1916 unionists would make their blood sacrifice at the somme which would become their cornerstone for remembrance in the new statelet of NI post 1921.
Mon 2nd Feb 2015
In Maghaberry Jail's Rose house there's a standoff between prison officers and Dissident Republican prisoners, journalist Lisa McAllister gives update on current situation in the prison and on ongoing incidents. In the courts a judicial review has been granted to the families of the victims of the Glennane gang who killed 120 people in the 1970s while they served in the security forces, film report previews UVF Hillcrest bombing in Dungannon in 1976 which killed 4 people including Pat Barnard (13) his brother Edward brought and was granted the review of the police investigation and its failures to have an overarching review as the HET inquiry was not carried on by the PSNI. Solicitor Kevin Winters comments on the family case then Eugene Reavey who lost 3 brothers in 1976 comments. Latest news on Dissident Republican shooting and wounding of a man on Friday in an Oldpark Road fast food shop. UKIP deputy leader Paul Nuttall meets DUP P Robinson at Stormont, brief report. (6:30pm Mon)
200 people have protested outside Maghaberry prison where Dissident Republican prisoners are in a standoff with prison wardens, film report with journalist Sarah Clarke's analysis. In the High Court a judicial review of how police investigated 120 murders by the loyalists Glennane gang in the 1970s has been granted. Film report reviews Hillcrest bar bomb attack in Dungannon in 1976 which killed 4 people including Pat Barnard (13), his brother Edward brought today's case, solicitor Kevin Winters comments on the cases, significance, and then Eugene Reavey comments then PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Will Kerr's statements on the judge's ruling. (10:30pm Mon)
Tue 3rd Feb 2015
The national crime agency likened to be the UK's FBI will now operate in NI from May as the SDLP give their support to the new oversight rules for the NCA in NI, film report from Tracy Magee on the rule of the NCA presently it only operates in NI in non-devolved matters like tax fraud, its role will cover everything from May as the SDLP negotiated new accountability here for the NCA. SDLP's A McDonnell explains the accountability rules then Sinn Fein's Pat Sheehan outlines their concerns. Then in the studio journalist Ken Reid gives his analysis on the SDLP's change of heart on the issue and in London security expert Jim Gamble outlines what the NCA can do now. Ken Reid outlines the Sinn Fein position with Jim Gamble's views. Next report from Maghaberry prison protest by Dissident Republicans, as today justice minister David Ford gave report to Stormont. S O'Neill reports on bomb scare today and protest outside prison last night, DUP's Paul Given comments on the protest and David Ford says verbal threats made against pos, then Sinn Fein's Raymond McCartney's views, then T Magee reports on today's Stormont proceedings where Sinn Fein MLA Phil Flanagan apologised to the speaker M McLaughlin and DUP's P Robinson launched their election billboard today, they want to improve 8 seats at Westminster and will support unionist pact. (10:30pm Tues)
Thu 5th Feb 2015
Headlines then at policing board meeting the chief/con George Hamilton has denied a claim by the SDLP MLA Dolores Kelly that the police are protecting the LVF killers of GAA official Sean Brown in 1997 in Bellaghy, film report with George Hamilton's views and D Kelly's position. G Hamilton also comments on the PSNI finance problems. In Belfast the PSNI are investigating 3 separate pipe bomb attacks in the St James, New lodge and Markets areas, film report on devices left at cars with reactions of Briege Brownlee of St James community forum then Sinn Fein Councillor Mary McConville, then PSNI ACC Stephen Martin's views on the similarities of the attacks. In Lurgan train services were suspended during a security operation around a suspect bomb, film report with traveller's reaction. Today DUP and Sinn Fein clashed over DUP support for introduction of prescription charges with DUP's P Robinson supporting the plan and Sinn Fein MLA Micky Brady against the plan, film report also includes T Magee report on today's executive meeting on teacher training college. (6pm Thurs)
Duiche
In Irish with English subtitles, journalist Eile Nic Chonaonaigh explores Belfast's violent history tourist trail that has expanded over the last 10 years with both sides of the community County-operating to maintain it, her taxi tour guide is called Eddie Fay, she explains why black taxis were introduced to Belfast in the early 1970s, the driver explains to her the sights they will visit on their tour, peace walls, murals, Bombay Street and Shankill Road. They stop at murals of Cuchulan and Bobby Sands, the driver was in jail with Bobby Sands, he recalls his death, he talks about the artists and the knowledge of people who take the tours.
Fri 6th Feb 2015
Headlines then report on bomb alerts at two Catholic churches at Newtownabbey, film report from St Mary's Star of the Sea, local Stephen Fitzgerald's reaction, then 2nd device at St Marys on the Hill where father Damian McCaughan comment. Then follow up report examines PSNI reaction to the series of pipe bombs planted over last two days with another found at Poleglass in West Belfast. PSNI's Chief Constable Nigel Grimshaw comments then Sinn Fein Councillor Stephen Magennis' views. PSNI have appealed for witnesses to the shooting of Harry McMahon in an Oldpark Road chippie last Friday to come forward, he's still critical, PSNI DCI Gary Reid comments on the shooting. (10:30pm Fri)
Sun 8th Feb 2015
This programme's format is the same as Part 1, 3 university academics discuss the main events of WW1 and their effect on both unionist and nationalist opinions in Ireland. The academics are Dermot Ferriter UCD Dublin, Paul Grayson University London, and T Bowman University of Kent. The programme also used old film clips and photos of the events. Begins May 1916, stalemate on western front, 10th Irish division in Greece, 36th division in France and 16th division in Europe, 538 men killed in Easter week, Dublin is in ruins after rising. D Ferriter recalls initial hostility in Dublin to rising, it took 12,000 British soldiers to quell the rebellion and they had firepower, the British army equipment is profiled to show difference in the firepower of British army and Irish rebels. 80 rifles equaled 1 machinegun. On May 3rd P Pearce executed 1st of 15 executions, D Ferriter comments on how this changed public opinions to support the rebels, John Redmond's Irish parliament party position is analyzed by academics in the face of this change. Tom Burke of royal Dublin fusiliers association reveals letters written homes with their reaction to the rebellion, includes Chris Fox's letter and Monica Robert's food packs sent to frontline. In trenches British began battle of Somme on 1st July 1916 at Thiepval 36th Ulster division goes in to action. Tim Bowman visits the front line trench and describes the scene with old film clips, he describes what happened on day 1 as 36th division takes German position but can't hold on 5,500 ulster men killed. Robert Quigg's great nephew Leonard explores his role by visiting McNaughton home, his OC Robert Quigg saved soldiers 6 times bringing back wounded soldiers, and he got the Victoria Cross. Tim Bowman visits Thiepval memorial to see sergeant Isaac Dean's name, his relative, one of men whose body was never found at Ulster tower opened in 1921, to the Ulster division he questions whether Ulstermen wore orange sashes going into battle, the academics discuss the effect of the somme on unionist psyche and its position in unionist strength of feeling. On September 3rd 16th Irish division began attack and took two villages with 400 casualties, Gavin Hughes visits he memorial to 16th Irish division at the Somme, after war cross brought back to Ireland, film clip shown, it's now in Island bridge. Somme was military disaster by end of 1916 unionists, nationalists and republican had made blood sacrifices. In 1917 at Messine's ridge in Flanders, the 36th and 16th were involved, 19 mines were placed and detonated killing 10,000 German soldiers, Willie Redmond MP killed in the fighting on 07/06/17 aged 57 he's profiled as believing comradeship in trenches would unite Irishmen towards home rule, then the academics discuss the significance of messines and Willie Redmond's role and whether his comradeship unity would unite unionists and nationalists back in Ireland. Their memorial November 1998, the Irish peace tower built by northern/southerners dedicated to all Irish soldiers, then more discussion on the joint endeavor of Messines and the symbolism in 1998 of the peace tower during the NI 1998 peace talks. The academics give their opinions. In 2002 in Donegal PJ Hallihan recalls the challenge he faced in getting recognition for Irish soldiers killed in WW1. In 1917 in Ireland British tried to introduce conscription, in July 1917 Sinn Fein was an election with De Valera taking W Redmond's seat based on opposition to conscription. The academics discuss the appeal in 1917 of Sinn Fein and their propaganda success, undermining Redmond's party. On 06/03/1918 John Redmond dies of a heart attack. D Ferriter recalls home rule becoming a 'dead letter'. In 1918 16th division nearly depleted in German offensive, Siobhan Deene explains what happened to her great grandfather who was in 16th division, she recalls the reception her great grandfather got when he came back to West Belfast and his PTSD. Also in North big house unionist's position changed, the role of Gilliland brothers is profiled, before and after WW1 with a relative's comments, one quarter of Irish gentry didn't return. In 1918 Sinn Fein win 73 seats, in next two years IRA guerrilla war begins. In May 1921 partition introduced, the British army leaves Ireland. Oliver Fallon of Connaught Rangers explains their end in 1922, he gives his opinion on their memory vanishing from Irish history, and then academics discuss the memorial commemorations in NI and the Republic and the increasing linking of orange demos to armistice events in the south. Sinn Fein attacks verbally British army commemorations, the programme looks at today's changes in commemorations and Queen Elizabeth's visit to the 1916 memorial. The academics discuss the modern position and the complexity of it all, all the contributors have a final say.
Mon 9th Feb 2015
Barrister Amal Clooney wife of actor George Clooney is to act for the interned hooded men in legal case against the British Government, film report on torture case with profile of other high profile cases she has acted in with solicitor Darragh Mackin (KRW) reaction. Loyalist Winston Rea fails in court case to stop the PSNI getting hold of his interviews to the Boston College tapes, film report with W Rea statement and views of loyalist William Plum Smith. In Dublin it appears unlikely a royal family member will attend the 100th anniversary of the Easter rising, film report with James Connolly Heron's reaction. (6:30pm Mon)
Tue 10th Feb 2015
In the courts Terry Laverty who was convicted of rioting during internment in Ballymurphy and during the period of the Ballymurphy massacre had his conviction overturned, film report. His brother was one of 10 people shot dead with Terry Laverty's comments, then solicitor Joe McVeigh's views. At Stormont MLAs are debating changes to the welfare system, film report explains the Tory Government changes, then mark Davenport gives his analysis of the Stormont debate where the DUP blocked all amendments except those of its own minister with UUP's Roy Beggs, DUP's P Robinson, Sinn Fein's Conor Murphy and SDLP's D Kelly's reactions. (6:30pm Tues)
Patrick Provis
Series looks at people who were thankful for the help of others, recorded here is the story of a former British soldier Patrick Provis who was blown up by a PIRA bomb in South Armagh in November 1987, whose life was saved by the helicopter pilot Alex Cory who despite the dangers evacuated him from the bomb scene. Begins with Patrick working in his garden with no hands, then narrator tells at 19 he joined Welsh regiment and posted to South Armagh, back in the 1980s it was an IRA stronghold. Provis recalls the dangers in the area, coming and going by helicopter, old film clip shown and old photos of him, he describes the day he was injured by IRA mortar attack, he lay badly injured, former Welsh fusiliers Terry Thomas and Rik O'shea recall his injuries and their memories. Provis thought he would die and he says he felt at peace, then out of nowhere and against army protocol an army helicopter landed in the field, Provis wants to find the pilot and thank him, he has searched for 10 years but could find no record of the incident. In a pub Provis and the journalist discuss what information they currently have, he had heard the helicopter's pilot had some connection to the master of Falkland castle in Scotland, he describes events in the helicopter before he got to Daisy Hill hospital. The journalist goes to the Whitehall library of military history to talk to troubles expert Professor Richard Greerson who explains the secrecy around British army war diaries and the 30 year rule preventing access to them, getting official records will be virtually impossible. Back at his home Patrick recalls why he wanted to be a soldier, it was his dream and he misses it. He spent 6 months in an army hospital where he met his wife Jeanie who was a nurse, both talk about being stuck in the moment of the explosion and its effects. To thank the helicopter pilot would ease his mind. At the Royal college of Arms Peter O'Donoghue is questioned about the master of Falkland's castle lead, they find them family in Burkes Peerage and identify the family member Alexander who went to Sandhurst and was a captain in Scot's guards, he currently lives in California, his name was Alex Cory, it turns out he's a top Hollywood producer, he revealed he was the helicopter pilot when contacted. The journalist goes to Hollywood to interview him, he reveals his role that day, he was quick reaction force commander that day, it was his decision to land that day, he recalls the trauma of that day and talking to the injured man, he recalls his reaction 24 hours later, it was one of the defining moments of his life. Back in England the journalist tells Patrick of the meeting in Hollywood, Patrick's not sure how to thank Gary but he feels relieved he will get to meet him and feels after that he can really move on. One month after LA meeting Cary arrives in Britain, Patrick and his wife bring a silver dragon, his regimental emblem for Alex as a memento and other items. Both men meet in a pub in Greenwich in South London. In a back room they exchange greetings and Patrick gives him his thank you and shows him the items he brought and explains what saving his life enabled him to do, both men praise each other and exchange gestures and the dragon symbol, then 3 weeks later Patrick recalls his reaction to the meeting, they plan to stay in touch.
Wed 11th Feb 2015
In Fermanagh a man has been shot dead at a 'travellers' wedding, film report doesn't name the dead man as yet. A second man was wounded, the marriage ceremony went ahead, father Michael King comments on what he saw, then witness Pat Chapman's views, then Sinn Fein Councillor Thomas O'Reilly. In Stormont the debate on welfare reform bill continues with MLAs debating the new system, Mark Davenport reports on today's debate where 80 amendments were proposed but only the DUP ones will get through due to petition of concern or Sinn Fein/DUP block vote with clip of Green party MLA Stephen Agnew's speech then M Davenport on the financial support to be introduced with DUP's minister Mervyn Storey's speech clip. In courts loyalist Winston Rea has secured a last minute court order to stop the PSNI listening to his Boston tapes interviews, film report with details of the case from court of appeal. The orange order says its new heritage centre paid for by European peace money is to promote orange heritage and not be a propaganda centre. Film report from Schromberg house in East Belfast with Orange order's David Hume's comments. In Loughall in County Armagh a second centre Sloan's house is also due to open, Armagh's grandmaster Denis Watson comments, then the curator of both museums Jonathon Mattison comments. (6:30pm Wed)
Thu 12th Feb 2015
PSNI say they know the identity of the Fermanagh wedding killers and call on them to give themselves up, film report names the victim as Barney McGinley (63) from County Longford, the PSNI's Detective Chief Inspector Una Jennings comments then local priest father Michael King talks about feuding traveller families. Followed by views of Sinn Fein Councillor Thomas O'Reilly then Vox Pop of Newtownbutler residents. In courts CIRA suspect Terence Marks (54) arrested at Newry meeting was refused bail, film report, then court Health and safety case report on man's death. In Newry Councillors voted to retain the name of hunger striker Raymond McCreesh at a local kid's playground. (6pm Thurs)
Fri 13th Feb 2015
Headlines then in court case over Boston tapes access by the PSNI, the court says PSNI officers in USA can bring the tapes but not look at them until the court makes its decision next week, film report on UVF's Winston Rea's appeal.
A Westminster report into a child abuse inquiry says the UK inquiry should be extended to include the Kincora Boy's home abuse, film report reviews the Kincora scandal.
In February 1965 the decision to create a new university for NI at Coleraine instead of Derry caused controversy, film report revisits that decision with news report and examines the effects of that decision today with views of civil rights association Ivan Cooper and Ulster University (UU) Professor Deirdre Heenan and People Before Profit's Eamonn McCann. (6:30pm Fri)
Sat 14th Feb 2015
In Downpatrick thousands of people attended a rally in support of local hospital and against cuts, film report with rally organiser Eamon Grady's views, then Vox Pop of locals.
In Carrick family escapes injury when their home is petrol bombed, film report. Also in Carrick 4 men arrested as a firearm is found in a car.
In courts judge order the Boston tapes should be held in court house as problem arose about tapes being held in US consulate, film report. (5pm Sat)
Mon 16th Feb 2015
Headlines then in Derry a housing estate was evacuated due to a bomb scare at the Ardmore road, film report with DUP's Gregory Campbell MP's reaction.
In North Belfast a pipe bomb was found outside a house on the Cliftonville Road, film report then latest from Derry as object found.
In Athlone the funeral has taken place of Brian McGinley shot dead at a Fermanagh wedding last week, film report.
Sinn Fein MLA Barry McElduff has angered unionists by saying that PIRA hunger striker Raymond McCreesh would have been deserving of a Nobel Peace Prize. Film report with B McElduff's comments then Sam Heenan son of William Heenan killed by PIRA in Rathfriland in 1985 accuses McIlduff of rebel rousing then UUP Councillor David Taylor's views on Newry park called after Raymond McCreesh. (10:30pm Mon)
PSNI say Derry bomb was designed to kill PSNI officers, film report with Superintendent Mark McEwan's reaction, then local residents Denis McLaughlin, Mary Martin, Anthony Ingham views then Sinn Fein's M McGuinness reaction then DUP's G Campbell wants army ATO unit based in North Belfast.
The trial of Seamus Daly on charges of causing the august 1998 Omagh bomb will go ahead next month, film report.
In East Belfast sectarian graffiti has been sprayed on a Catholic church, film report shows St Anthony's doors, also in East Belfast a memorial to two loyalists shot dead by PIRA in June 1970 was vandalised.
A former resident of Kincora Boy's home in the 1970s Gary Hoy has won court permission to challenge the NI Sec decision not to include Kincora in a UK wide child abuse inquiry, film report with Gary Hoy interview and views of Kincora victim Richard Kerr, report covers justice Tracy's ruling and the status of NI's own Historical abuse inquiry. (6pm Tues)
What we Have we Hold
This programme examines the Orange Order's efforts in rural Ulster through companies to fund keeping protestant owned land in protestant hands. Declan Lawn's documentary begins with introductory comments of orange order's D Nelson about protecting isolated communities in some areas then he identifies leading orange man David Mahon as the boss of the orange land's funds companies. After opening titles he interviews an anonymous person called 'Danny' who describes his attempt to buy a farm near Dungannon owned by a Protestant and Danny was a Catholic, although a cash customer the family sold the farm to Protestants after taking it off the market for a month. Then SDLP MLA John Dallat says stories like that are common in rural Ulster, he comments on rural/Belfast differences, Dallat in 2006 amended fair employment act to counter this trend but it failed as ways were found around it. D Lawn details what estate agents told him about 'colour coding' practice in rural NI. Writer and historian D McDonald comments on the Clogher fund set up in the 1920s to buy land for Protestants fleeing the Free State by the orange order. It helped 2000 Protestant families settle in Fermanagh, a fund successor was the Archdale fund again in Fermanagh, University of Liverpool's Jon Tonge comments on orange order land funds and how they are used, orange order's Drew Nelson calls it a relief fund for distressed Protestants, he explains his views then D Lawn shows documents of modern day Ulster land and property company which has the same aims between 1995-2004 around Drumcree crisis. Professor Eric Kaufman researched the fund and explains what he discovered. 2002 Robert Salters letter says £1m of property has already been bought, D Nelson admits the company still exists but won't give financial details, he gives general details of the fund aims and says they lend to lodges, he claims 2002 documents are out of date, he claims in border areas its republican funds which are affected property markets and it's illegal money, he denies it's a hidden battle for the land and admits there are other orange funds doing the same type of work to help protestant communities in distress. Next D Lawn profiles Orangeman David Mahon from Kesh, a property entrepreneur he admits some involvement with the ulster land and property company, he denies buying farms, just land around orange halls and says the order has 200 similar funds, he says he's just an advisor but the Ulster land and property company holds investments in two companies, Mistyburn Consultants limited and Union Arch properties in which D Mahon is a director, D Lawn gives details of both companies and make-up of their shareholders and connection to orange lodges. D Nelson is a director of Union Arch but he denies it's an orange company but its roots are in the orange network he says. Mistyburn exists in Belfast, it buys property along contentious parade routes, this continued long after Drumcree. D Lawn visits Springfield Road Route, house bought to prevent Catholic's owning them, D Mahon a director of Mistyburn comments on buying 12-15 houses on parade routes. D Mahon says Mistyburn isn't orange company but Drew Nelson says it has connections, he defends purchasing property as a useful political tool but D Mahon denies political motives. D Mahon controls many companies across NI, he himself can't put a number on it but says it's approximately 150 and growing. D Lawn then profiles D Mahon's main company called D2 in Kesh which was owned by the orange order who sold it to him. D Mahon comments it's not the business of the order, then D Nelson comments on D2, then D Mahon says his companies have never had a political or religious agenda, an orange order insider contradicts that view and fears loss of money in property crash. D Mahon denies concerns as does D Nelson who goes on to explain why order sold D2, then D Lawn Summarises.
In West Belfast Aaron Stilges (17) is shot 6 times in legs by gunmen in a paramilitary attack, film report with interview with Aaron and his Aunt Marie Stilges.
In East Belfast local vigilante neighbourhood watch patrols have begun which include some former loyalist paramilitaries. Film report with unnamed vigilante views then reaction of PSNI Superintendent Darrin Jones followed by views of community worker Ian Shanks who denies they are untrained vigilantes, then Geraldine Hanna of Victims' support NI's reaction followed by Braniel area volunteer Karen Bowers.
Next latest report from Derry bomb find.
Then in the Republic the inquest for murdered PIRA double agent Denis Donaldson has been suspended for the 15th time, he was killed in 2006 in Donegal, film report.
At Stormont social development minister M Storey (DUP) has refused to hand over a report on the behaviour of his department's advisor Colin Brimstone over pressure on Jenny Palmer to change her Housing Executive vote.
At planned Newry and Mourne super council a row has erupted over the use of Irish above English on the new council logos, film report with UKIP's Henry Reilly objections to the policy and then SDLP's Councillor Laura Devlin's position. (6:30pm Wed)
In Belfast city centre an escaped prisoner Derick Brockwell was recaptured after trying to carry out two armed robberies, film report has prisoner's history and details of his escape from Dublin and eye witness accounts and Superintendent Paula Hillman's comments with CCTV film shown. Pharmacist Cliff McElhinney recalls Brockwell's attempt to rob his shop, he was wanted in England also.
The DUP's P Robinson has threatened the BBC for excluding the party from its TV national debate, in an interview he outlines the party's position and answers questions on a possible legal action.
Next the BBC reveals it has got the report prepared by the civil servants about the allegation of bullying against DUP special advisor Colin Brimstone in his dealing with Jenny Palmer over her housing executive vote. It recommended a disciplinary proceeding against Brimstone, film report on 2013 report and its blanked out sections. (6:30pm Thurs)
Headlines then NI Sec T Villers is to try and break the North Belfast parades impasse at Ardoyne, film report with Teresa Villers' interview then reaction of DUP's N Dodds and Sinn Fein's G Kelly. (6pm Fri)
Sat 21st Feb 2015
In Omagh Patrick McGinley (46) has been charged with murdering his uncle Bernard McGinley (63) at a Fermanagh wedding 10 days ago, film report.
The statue stolen from a Limavady mountain of the Celtic sea god has been found, brief report.
The DUP and UUP have been holding talks on unionist unity candidates for May's election. (5pm Sat)
Mon 23rd Feb 2015
Former NI RUC man Richard Barkley (50) apologises for racist abuse of a black man while with Chelsea fans on a London train. Film report with clip of incident and R Barkley's statement and black man's comments on the incident.
The family of Lisa Dorrian who disappeared on 28/02/2005 have offered a 5,000 Pounds reward for information leading to the recovery of her body, film report reviews the case with Lisa going missing at a Ballyhalbert caravan park party, and her killers are believed to have links with loyalist paramilitaries. PSNI ch/insp Justyn Galloway gives an update on police inquiries, then her sister Joanne and her mother and father comment. (6:30pm Mon)
On 10th anniversary of murder and disappearance of Lisa Dorrian in Ballyhalbert in 2005, Sharon O'Neill investigates the case and who murdered her with Joanne Dorrian's comment then Michelle Dorrian's situation, then her father John Dorrian's reaction. The family just want her body to be found. (10:30pm Mon)
At Stormont the DUP leader Peter Robinson met the Catholic bishop Noel Trainor about a conscience clause in anti-discrimination laws being proposed by the DUP, film report with reference to Asher's cake case and bishop Nigel Trainor worries about the Catholic marriage and relationship counselling service being forced to close, then DUP's Paul Givan's views but Liz Skelcher a trade unionist isn't happy with the DUP proposals.
The SDLP leader A McDonnell has denied he's embarrassed for reprimanding Newry Councillor who stayed away from the council vote on the name of Raymond McCreesh being used for a play park, film report with A McDonnell views, then UKIP Councillor Henry O'Reilly's views. (6:30pm Tues)
Headlines then PSNI investigating the disappearance of Antrim woman Pauline Carmichael (61) on Monday have recovered a female body from Lough Neagh and murder is suspected, two men have been arrested a father and a son.
In Crossmaglen a man has been injured in an explosion as he took down a poster, Sinn Fein's Conor Murphy blamed Dissident Republicans for the attack.
Families representing victims of PIRA's Fred Scapaticci, the agent known as Stakeknife have launched a civil case against him, film report highlighting case of Joe Mulhern (23) killed in 1993 his father Frank recalls what Scapaticcii told him about his son's murder, then their solicitor Kevin Winters comments on the case.
In Belfast's Titanic centre the Earl of Wessex's visit was interrupted by a bomb scare, film report on Prince Edward's visit with Titanic centre's Tim Husband's comments.
In Commons the PM David Cameron sympathises with the DUP over the BBC excluding them from the UK wide election debates, film report on latest BBC/DUP arguments, also in North Down the UUP say they won't stand against Sylvia Hermon MP. (6pm Wed)
Latest on murder of Antrim woman Pauline Carmichael (61) with her daughter Realana Mitchell's interview.
In Crossmaglen Frank McCabe Jnr was the man injured in yesterday's pipe bomb explosion, film report.
In Derry NIE engineer threatened by masked men who told him to deliver device to Strand Road PSNI station, film report with Sinn Fein Councillor Kevin Campbell's reaction then independent Councillor Gary Donnelly's reaction. (6:30pm Thurs)
Sun 1st Mar 2015
Headlines then in courts Alan Foster (37) charged with murdering Pauline Carmichael (61) film report. In Derry a masked gang hijacked a DOE gritter lorry and ordered the driver to deliver a package to a PSNI station, he abandoned the lorry and police found no bomb on board, film report with UUP's Danny Kennedy the regional development minister's reaction, there was a similar incident in Creggan on Wednesday evening. Phil Oakes of the Unite Union calls for attacks to stop, then PSNI's ch/insp Tony Callaghan's comments. In Crossmaglen PSNI have appealed for information about the explosion that injured a local man, film report. In courts loyalists Winston Rea has lost his appeal against the PSNI getting his Boston tapes interviews, the case now goes to the Supreme Court, film report. (6:30pm Fri)
Imagining Ulster
Part 1: Red Hand
William Crawley explores some of the social, cultural and political influences on identity in Ulster, Ulster is more than a place he says, and it's also an idea with many meanings, shaped by different languages, faiths and cultures. He asks who we are. Are we Irish, British, Norther Irish, Ulster Scots? We all claim this place. Over hundreds of years 3 cultures have intertwined here, Irish, English and Scottish, he will attempt to unpick the threads of identity who shaped who we are. Tonight's programme begins with explanation of were the Ulster symbol of the red hand comes from as two chiefs raced for the land. One of the chiefs in the story was an O'Neill, this blood sacrifice is symbolised by the red hand in the family crest, and the red hand is now part of all our traditions. In 1953 it was centre of the new Ulster flag (NI Flag) but it was placed under the crown, images of iconic image from across NI are shown then academics comment on the symbol. Next Wm Crawley talks about the Galloway/Scots who came to Ireland in the early 17th part of the ebb and flow of peoples between these two places since ancient times, a constant factor in our history. Crawley then profiles those called the border reavers, Armstrong's and Elliott's, they had two identities Scots and English whichever suited them at a time. Crawley outlines how Scots and English Kings used them as mercenaries, he visits a graveyard where the Scots King James executed 50 Elliott/Armstrongs, they were caught between two states, in 1603 James VI united Scotland and England the reavers were an embarrassment, he wiped them out or used them in the plantation of Ulster's dissenting ministers also moved from Scotland to Ulster in the 17th. Presbyterianism was added to flavour of Ulster life, QUB Dr Andrew Holmes comments on pressures that created their ulster identity, as Ulster Scots a frontier people by 18th they found a dissenting voice using poetry. Some featured and read, like James Orr a united Irishman, the failed rebellion led to an 1801 political union with Britain, James Orr was exiled to America, he returned. Dr Holmes comments on the rhyming weavers, UU Dr Frank Ferguson explains their role and that of Samuel Thompson, their letters at fraternity mattered to these men, they are compared to Scotland's Robbie Burns, Thompson's words on his Ulster Scots identity read by William Crawley then he investigates author John Gamble's views on this new identity formed from two nations, he called it the northern character with aspects of the Irish and Scottish intermingled. An English civil servant's report on rural Presbyterian Ulster communities published some years later portrayed them differently. Crawley explains 1830 document and what they revealed then Dr Andrew Holmes talks about James Reid's 1834 publication on the Presbyterian Church in Ulster. It's key text in Presbyterian and unionist writing, it reckons they are a state within a state. Wm Crawley then looks at the old Presbyterian town of Belfast, Aodan Mac Poillin from the Ulster trust describes the cultural make-up of Belfast then and Scottish influence. In 1814 the academic institution opened as a university, Dr Jon Wright QUB comments on its significance, in 1821 Belfast's Natural history and philosophical society founded, they built a museum a growing thirst for knowledge existed. Science was key but evangelism also grows, faith in the bible in ulster became significant force. Professor Ian McBride of King's college London comments, on evangelism bound up with Belfast's economic success, Wm Crawley profiles the Rev Henry Cooke's opposition to Catholic emancipation in 1829 and the role of Daniel O'Connell who Catholic's called the Liberator in calling for repeal of the Act of union which Presbyterian's opposed. Professor Thomas Bartlett University of Aberdeen comments on protestant fears. James Emerson Tennant (1804-1869) MP's life profiled, he opposed D O'Connell in commons on repeal issue, he spoke of the glory of being British while remaining Irish. Dr A Holme's comments on the multiple identities of Ulster people, from 1840s and the growth of the harbour. Belfast grew and industrial success attacked migration from rural Ulster, professor Alvin Jackson University of Edinburgh explains new identities in the city and the growing catholic population, in 1849 Queen Victoria wrote Belfast was an Irish town as she was greeted in Irish. DR Gillian McIntosh comments on Belfast Irish without, Scots within, identity and the business culture driven to succeed. In 1888 Belfast becomes a city. Robinson and Cleavers store opens, its architect Robert Young wanted Belfast to rival Glasgow, other of his buildings profiled by Crawley including the Ulster Hall, a huge civic moment but Ulster Hall had political use. Randolph Churchill in 1886 attacked Home rule in the hall as he played the orange card, he used the slogan Ulster will fight, Ulster will be right. Home Rule changed unionism, it used to have room for many identities now it had geographical identity, a new Northern Identity, academics comment, they wanted their own Ulster ethic to answer Irish ethic, when Gaelic culture was growing northern unionist writers responded a new literature emerged hailing the Ulster Scots. Crawley profiles work of James Woodburn's works who said northerner's superior to southerners because of moral superiority of his religion. In 1912 he third home rule bill passed in the commons, Ireland would have a parliament in Dublin. Crawley profiles reaction in the North, James Craig's Ulster Solemn League & Covenant profiled. QUB professor Keith Jeffrey comments on that events significance then and now and then the UVF formed in January 1913 with German arms, film clips shown. Irish volunteers formed later in Dublin. British army officers refused to oppose the UVF, Dr Ian McBride comments on UVF threat then 28th June 1914 WW1 begins and the game changes in Ireland as northerners and southerners joined 3 different British army divisions for very different reasons to fight Germany in WW1, the 36th Division was known as the Ulster division, it reinforced the Ulster identity. Captain Cyril Falls was the chronicler of the Ulster division. Crawley profiles his writings and the importance of religion and the bible to them. July 1st 1916 by 2nd July 2069 killed in battle, 4 Victoria crosses won that day, they are remembered still, they fought on anniversary of the Boyne, both became part of Ulster unionist narrative of an unconquerable unionism but 200,000 Irish nationalists fought and unionism and nationalism wrote them out of history. Academics comment on this aspect, it's taken a unity for all sides to remember WW1 casualties. In the north the right of unionists was purchased by the WW1 casualties, Crawley comments on Connaught Rangers motto and casualties as part of a common past, he refers back to the red hand and summarises the episode.
In Newry and Mourne council, Sinn Fein have blocked attempts to rename a play park called after PIRA hunger striker Raymond McCreesh by 15 votes to 14, film report as SDLP votes with unionists then SDLP Councillor M Carrs and UKIP Councillor Henry O'Reilly's views, meanwhile in Stormont UUP's Tom Elliott is to introduce a Private Member's Bill to prevent buildings being named after terrorists. Tom Elliott comments then SDLP leader A McDonnell's views on the bill. In courts Kieran McLaughlin (60) denies murdering Barry McCrory in Derry in October 2013, film report. (10:30pm Mon)
Tue 3rd Mar 2015
The McCreesh family say the Newry Play Park should remain named after PIRA hunger striker Raymond, his cousin Jim McCreesh gives a TV interview in which he accuses politicians of playing games in the run up to the election, film report with SDLP Councillor Michael Carrs' reaction, then UKIP Councillor Henry Reilly and Sinn Fein Councillor Liz Kimmins' views. Then in the studio commentator and former SDLP member Brian Feeney gives his assessment that it's happening because of May's election, he also criticises the weakness shown by the SDLP leadership on the issue, then QUB professor Peter Shirlow gives a 'big picture' reaction to the name and outlines what he sees as needing to be done in dealing with divisive issues. Both men discuss what will happen to this issue now and other possible rows over symbols that are on the horizon. Also today at Stormont, MLAs debated a DUP motion on the McCreesh Play Park issue, Tracy Magee and Ken Reid report on the heated exchanges with clips of comments from Sinn Fein's G Kelly and Alliance's Trevor Lynn and Ken Reid gives his analysis of the performance of the new speaker Sinn Fein's Mitchell McLaughlin. (10:30pm Tues)
Silence of the Supergrass
In this programme Vincent Kearney investigates why senior UVF Supergrass/informer Gary Heggarty from North Belfast's Shore Road area has not begun testifying against any of his former colleagues or special branch handlers since he agreed to become a Supergrass 5 years ago. Begins with film clip of UVF organised riots 5 years ago when G Heggarty turned Supergrass and admitted involvement in 500 crimes, former Ombudsman Nuala O'Loan says he's as bad as you get, he's given 1000 interviews to police, victim's families believe he's not even been in court yet because police fear what he'll say about his special branch handlers and how they protected him. After opening title a news clip is shown from 21 years ago of G Heggarty's first murder of Catholic grandfather Sean McParland (55) who was minding his 4 grandchildren. Sinead Monaghan tells the story of what happened and the effect of the murder on the children, special branch knew Heggarty was the killer but he was an informer on their payroll and they kept quiet. Solicitor Niall Murphy comments on Special Branch's role. At Wave house in north Belfast Nuala O'Loan and human rights barrister Richard Harvey address Heggarty's victim's representatives, both were appointed independent monitors of the case after the families said they didn't trust the police, the pace of the investigation is causing concern, he hasn't even been charged yet with the crimes he's admitted, the families say the police know his evidence will damage the police as well as the UVF. Two years ago Nuala O'Loan published report on Mount Vernon UVF, it linked UVF police informers to 16 murders and RUC SB protected the killers. Heggarty became UVF Battalion OC. Another murder was May 1997 of Shankill man John Harbinson, news clip shown, solicitor P Murray gives details but UVF realised Heggarty was an informer after HET report and Heggarty was ousted. In August 2009 he agreed to become an assisted informer. William Smith of the PUP called his arrest anti-peace process, UVF organised riots, film clip shown but UVF planned in 2000 to buy more guns and they had a list of republican suspects. September 2009 MET police agreed to debrief Heggarty but two months later the PSNI stepped in and took over from HET. The PSNI once employed Heggarty as an agent. Solicitor P Murray comments. Since 2011 Detective Chief Inspector Richard Campbell has run the investigation, he gives interview and denies they are stalling the process, then Nuala O'Loan's opinion, news report shown of murder of Eamon Fox and Gary Convey in 1994 in North Belfast, Heggarty charged with murders, Kieran Fox his son recalls the effect on the families, a survivor witness A recalls the shooting and the effect on him, when arrested Heggarty and Haddock Special Branch allowed Haddock to shave off his beard which an eye witness mentioned. Kieran Fox couldn't believe it, P Murray says Special Branch handlers should also be in the dock. In October 2014 police ombudsman questioned two Special Branch men about Heggarty's claim they knew what he was doing. Michael Maguire explains why they weren't arrested but he says PSNI won't be telling him what to do. QC Pamela Archison gives her view on the slowness of the case getting to court, then N Murphy rejects her views. Then profile of Drew Harris' role in declaring Heggarty a creditable witness before he avoids answering question on this. PSNI decline to comment but PSNI has now cut 4 people off the case, Nuala O'Loan says that means more delays, R Campbell denies that. Vincent Kearney sums up the latest court moves in this long process, no end result is near.
Mark Carruthers introduces film clips from Stormont of MLAs who debated today the issue of the naming of a playpark in Newry after IRA hunger striker Raymond McCreesh. The Assembly passed a motion condemning the naming of the playpark after McCreesh. The motion was brought by the DUP's William Irvine. His comments are shown, then Sinn Fein's Meagan Fearon's response, then the SDLP's Alasdair McDonnell's views and the UUP's Danny Kennedy attacks Megan Fearon's comments. Then the Alliance's Trevor Lunn attacks the Equality Commission's inactivity. Then Sinn Fein's Micky Brady calls the SDLP 'mealy mouthed'. The DUP's Sammy Wilson attacks Megan Fearon's views, then the SDLP's Mark Durkan. Then in the studio commentator Alex Kane gives his views on the debate comments and suspicions of electioneering. (Mon)
Wed 4th Mar 2015
Headlines, then report from Derry on the trial of K McLaughlin for the murder of Barry McCrory. Film report about today's evidence about the 10/10/13 shooting. Northern Ireland's new 11 'super-councils' begin on 1/4/15 but already some of them are being plagued by the same old problems. Unionists on the Mid-Ulster council have denounced the decision to ban the sale of poppies and Easter lilies on council property. Film report from Gareth Gordon with the DUP's Wilbert Buchanan, then Sinn Fein councillor Cathal Mallaghan's counter views. Then UUP Councillor Ken Reid and SDLP's Tony Quinn's views. Besides the issue over poppies there is also disagreement over the Irish language being given priority over English on council literature, which is also the source of disagreement in Newry, Mourne & Down Council as is the McCreesh playpark issue. In Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Council they have voted to fly the Union flag all year round, which has annoyed Nationalists. Commentator Seamus Close outlines his concerns. (Wed 6.30pm)
Thu 5th Mar 2015
Headlines, then the University of Ulster has revealed that hundreds of thousands of people in Northern Ireland suffer from mental health problems as a result of the troubles. Film report from Sarah Moore interviews Cathy Gallagher, whose brother Aidan was killed in the 1998 Omagh bombing and her problems. The research from the University shows that 213,000 people have mental health problems relating to the troubles. That equates to almost 30% of the population. Then University of Ulster's Professor Siobhan O'Neill's views, and John Beggs from the Commission for Victims & Survivors voices support for a Northern Ireland mental health trauma service. (Thurs 6pm)
Fri 6th Mar 2015
Parents of murdered south Armagh man Paul Quinn have criticised remarks by Sinn Fein's Gerry Adams over remarks made at a Sinn Fein rally. Film report where Adams remarks that Paul Quinn was killed by criminal elements who planted a device last week that injured a man in the area. Then an interview with Paul Quinn's mother, supported by Stephen Quinn, Paul's father, who claims that the IRA killed her son. Speaking on Radio Ulster Gerry Adams claims that he has done everything he could to bring Paul's killers to justice. A DUP councillor, Jenny Palmer, who accused the party of bullying over her Housing Executive vote, has been summoned to a disciplinary meeting for bringing the party into disrepute. Film report covers her interview with Spotlight about DUP Special Adviser Stephen Brimstone. Jenny Palmer felt that she was entitled to an apology from the DUP. The BBC/ITV/SKY leaders' debates will go ahead, despite Prime Minister David Cameron saying that he will only attend one. Film report covers DUP's Peter Robinson's reaction to being left out of the debate. He calls it a shambles and discrimination against the UK's 4th largest party. The Sinn Fein Ard Fheis begins in Derry where, in an unusual move, the Londonderry Bands Forum says that it will take part in a fringe event. Film report on the Forum's attempt to change perceptions of bands and parading. The Forum's Kenny McFarland explains their motivations. Then the Reverend David Latimer, who addressed the conference in 2011, reveals that he received hate mail but has no regrets. In 2013 one marching band played at the all-Ireland fleadh. Sinn Fein's Gerry O'Hara says that it is about acceptance, not tolerance. (Fri 6.30pm)
Sat 7th Mar 2015
In courts William McGinley (26) is charged with murdering his great uncle Bernard at a traveller wedding in Fermanagh last month. Film report. The Orange Grand Master of Ireland is calling for peaceful protests against the Parades Commission's decision to ban the Ligoniel Orange parade past the Ardoyne shops. Film report with Ed Stevenson's comments at an Orange protest in Belfast. At the Sinn Fein Ard Fheis in Derry Martin McGuinness says that his home city sets the best example for reconciliation. Film report on his speech attended by the Reverend Harold Good (Methodist) and Reverend Norman Hamilton (Presbyterian). The conference was also addressed by the Reverend Steve Stockman (Fitzroy Presbyterian) and Catholic Priest father Martin Magill. The Londonderry Bands' Forum also attending a fringe meeting. Derek Moore comments on that. (Sat 5pm)
The Sinn Fein Conference
Mark Carruthers introduces the live Sinn Fein ard fheis coverage from Derry as Sinn Fein delegates await the speech from President Gerry Adams. Firstly Queens University's Professor Rick Wilford gives his expectation of what Adams' speech will say. He thinks that it will spur the party on to face the 3 upcoming elections in the UK, Stormont & the Dail, where they want power on abortion of fatal foetal pregnancies. Mark Carruthers talks to Mark Devenport, who is at the Millenium Forum in Derry, about the mood at the conference. He says that a lot of the focus is on 2016 and the upcoming elections and Martin McGuinness' belief that Sinn Fein could become the largest party on both sides of the border. Devenport also highlights what he thinks Adams will say in his speech. He comments on Adams popularity within Sinn Fein, despite the personnel changes of the last year. Next there is footage of Martin McGuinness' speech this afternoon in which he said that he wanted Sinn Fein to be the largest party north and south of the border, and defends Sinn Fein's stance on the welfare reforms debates with £564 million committed for the next 6 years to protect the vulnerable. He also says that Sinn Fein has protected our health & education services in the face of massive cuts by the British Tory party and that north & south they will continue to oppose austerity. He says that Sinn Fein does equality, not austerity. He says that they stand against racism, sectarianism, intolerance & homophobia. He outlines his election hopes & goals. He wants to build the nation that is outlined in the 1916 proclamation, just and fair regardless of colour & creed. Then Mark Devenport talks to Mary Lou McDonald TD & Sinn Fein Vice-President who repeats the party's election aims to end partition and increase their election base. She believes that she can do it. She comments on possible coalition agreements, but only as the largest party. She also comments on the abortion issue and the party's position taken today. She is asked about Gerry Adams problems with Maria Cahill and will that hinder Sinn Fein and Adams personally. She replies that her story is being used politically by Sinn Fein's opponents. Then back to the studio, where Rick Wilford comments on Mary Lou McDonald's comments on abortion & Sinn Fein's position and also May's referendum on same-sex marriage in the Republic. He also comments on Sinn Fein's position of only going into coalition if they are the biggest party. Then Mark Carruthers introduces a film clip of the Greek Foreign Minister Euelid Tsakalotos addressing the conference on Greece's problems with the EU bailout and solidarity in the hard times ahead. Then back to Mark Devenport in Derry who is talking to South Down MLA Chris Hazzard and Eoin O'Broin (former Belfast Sinn Fein councillor) who talks about getting rid of austerity. They discuss the situation in Greece and the need for solidarity going forward against austerity. Chris Hazzard says that Sinn Fein is the only party standing up for vulnerable people. He says that austerity is the price of the union, with £1.5 billion cut from the block grant. He comments on the Westminster election and its relevance. They comment on people in Northern Ireland not being able to vote in Irish Presidential elections. Then it's back to Mark Devenport & Rick Wilford who discuss Sinn Fein's claim to be the party of anti-austerity with a more critical eye. Then they switch to the conference hall where Gerry Adams has arrived to speak. He begins in Irish, then welcomes all of Sinn Fein's foreign friends and dignitaries to the conference. He calls on the Irish government to recognize the state of Palestine, he recalls Bloody Sunday, NICRA marches and welcomes the Bloody Sunday families who are present. He thanks the Londonderry Bands Forum who took part in a fringe meeting. He would like to see Belfast take the same approach as Derry in terms of contentious parades. He praises Derry men Mitchel McLaughlin, John Hume & Martin McGuinness, and the Sinn Fein MLAs and Executive Ministers for their efforts during the Stormont House Agreement (SHA) talks, in which he says that Sinn Fein protected the rights of people on benefits and the long term sick. He says that progress was also made on dealing on the past, where every day marks an anniversary for someone. Today is Sam Marshall. Yesterday was the Gibraltar 3. He hopes that the SHA will bring closure for victims. He welcomes the families of victims of the Ballymurphy massacre and Hooded Man Liam Shannon. He points out that the British 'Cabinet of Millionaires' have cut £1.5 billion from Northern Ireland's block grant. Sinn Fein will oppose austerity north & south and build an anti-austerity alliance. He then attacks Fianna Fail and Fine Gael's budgets and also Labour's over recent years. He says that they have delivered nightmare economics and socialized the debt but never the wealth. He attacks private banking greed, where 191 individuals held £62 billion of the banking debt yet the government blamed the Irish people. He says that it is the corrupt bankers who should be in prison not the water charge protesters. He criticizes Enda Kenny's role in the Euro-zone debt crisis and says that Sinn Fein is the effective opposition voice in the Dail. The government claims that the recovery is under way but he says that it is a two-tier, unequal recovery. Sinn Fein says that the economy should serve the people, not vice versa. It is pro-enterprise and supports a living wage for workers and supports progressive taxation where wealth is used to fund social equality. Sinn Fein will abolish water charges and the property tax and will establish a wealth tax on everyone earning over 100,000 euros per year. He backs foreign investment to help create jobs and small and medium enterprises will get help. Immigrants will not be denied a voice in Ireland's democracy, and furthermore next week Sinn Fein will propose a law that will allow citizens in the north of Ireland to vote in Irish Presidential elections. He also promises a deal for rural Ireland and outlines this in general terms. He says they'll introduce local authority housing and introduce rent controls and offer protection to families in mortgage distress. He promises all citizens equality before the law and supports marriage equality for the LGBTQ community and supports same-sex marriage and calls for a yes vote in the referendum on 22nd May. Referring to the 1916 Rising anniversary coming up he says that it is the opportunity to critically examine our past. He criticizes the Irish government's plans for the centenary. He says that they have failed to honour the 1916 Proclamation, which is Sinn Fein's mission statement. He highlight the government's failure to protect the Moore Street monument. He then comments on listening to Unionists but says that two of everything won't work on one small island. He calls for an all-Ireland conversation. We share a common history and our futures are bound together. Our flag is orange and green. He wishes candidates good luck for the elections and calls for the water charge prisoners to be released. He comments on the smears and lies about Sinn Fein as their vote increases. This will increase as their rivals know that the people want change. He says that Sinn Fein will not prop up a Fianna Fail of Fine Gael government. It wants to lead the next government. Standing ovation shown as Rick Wilford & Mark Carruthers discuss the speech's content followed by Mark Devenport's analysis.
A new political crisis has erupted at Stormont between Sinn Fein and the DUP over welfare reform as Sinn Fein withdraw support for a deal that everyone thought was done. Film report from Stephen Walker begins with Martin McGuinness at the Sinn Fein ard fheis saying that the welfare changes that they had negotiated would protect the most vulnerable but at this morning's news conference at Stormont he set a different tone, saying that he had learnt that the new scheme won't protect claimants. He calls that bad faith and says that they will oppose the welfare bill. The DUP's Peter Robinson says that it is Sinn Fein who have behaved dishonourably. He calls their change 'ham-fisted'. Then the Alliance's David Ford criticizes Sinn Fein as being either cowardly or stupid. Then the TUV's Jim Allister's reaction that Stormont is a farce. Next report covers the UUP's Mike Nesbitt's views. He also attacks the Sinn Fein stance as petty party politics. Then the SDLP's Alasdair McDonnell highlights Martin McGuinness' support for the welfare reform bill on Friday. In the studio Sinn Fein's John O'Dowd answers this query and says that Sinn Fein worked all weekend trying to avoid a crisis. He denies that they got their sums wrong, saying that if anyone got their sums wrong it was the Department of Social Development (DUP). He says that the DUP did not honour the Stormont House Agreement (SHA) and says that Sinn Fein are standing up for the SHA. He denies that it is anything to do with Sinn Fein's position in the Republic. Then Tara Mills interviews the DUP's Sammy Wilson who says that Sinn Fein knew what they agreed to and the costs involved, and he said that the deal wasn't about protecting future claimants, just those losing out now. He says that Sinn Fein is either being dishonest or else they can't count. He denies the Sinn Fein claim that the DUP delayed giving them the figures. Then the reaction of Secretary of State Theresa Villiers who says that the situation is retrievable. Then Mark Devenport gives an update on what is happening up at Stormont and question marks over Stormont's future. Today the DUP Finance Minister in Stormont warned that Northern Ireland would lose control of corporation tax. The BBS's John Campbell explains the delay in corporation tax reform for Northern Ireland. Meanwhile at the weekend the Orange Order's chief Ed Stevenson called for peaceful protests at the beginning of the parade past Ardoyne. Film report with the UPRG's Gerald Solinas' reaction, then Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly says that it is 'time to talk, not walk'. Then the views of Joe Marley from CARA residents' group. (Mon 6.30pm)
Tue 9th Jun 2015
Headlines, then following last night's Spotlight programme the daughter of Caroline Moreland, Shauna, wants to meet with Martin McGuinness to discuss her mother's murder as an alleged informer. Film report reviews the 1994 murder with old news clips. Shauna reveals the questions that she would ask Martin McGuinness. In further reaction to the Spotlight programme the MoD says that it is helping the police with their investigations. Chris Page's report features the SDLP's Dolores Kelly's reaction, then the DUP's J Donaldson's views, the Nationalist commentator Chris Donnelly's views.
Wed 10th Jun 2015
Lelia Doolan presents the portrait of Bernadette Devlin (McAliskey) using old film clips and interviews past and present. It is Irish with English subtitles. After opening titles the programme begins with a news report from the 1970s and Bernadette's appearance at a rally in Carrickmore after her release from Armagh jail. It shows her radical speech. Then a further press report on her prison release press conference where she answers questions from journalists on her call for an end to rioting. Then as film clips of rioting are shown Bernadette's voice is heard talking about violence and ruthlessness. She says she is not a militarist and is not a soldier. In a current Time interview she says that we are all responsible for violence in society, even tax payers. She says we let other people do the killing for us, and admits that she has a complicated view of it all. She doesn't like violence but has no problem being seen as 'the shadow of a gunman'. Then a film clip for August 1971 with Brian Faulkner introducing internment, followed by Bernadette speaking at an anti-internment rally. Then film clip of Labour opposition leader Harold Wilson talking about the 'political bias' of internment. Then a vox pop of Derry people on internment. Then Bernadette recall the week before the Derry Bloody Sunday march, and being on a march from Dungannon to Coalisland. The RUC stopped the March moving off. Film clip shown of Bernadette arguing with the troops' OC. Film clip shows the running battle with the RUC in the main street with Bernadette's recollections over them. They got to the brickyard in Coalisland where the army made them all squat down whilst they took all their names. She quotes John Currie as saying 'wouldn't it have been boring to have been born at some other time?' Then a film clip of January 30th 1972 in Derry. Bernadette recalls the security forces hostility on that day. She recalls feeling nothing but fear. She was on the platform speaking when the first shots were fired and saw people panicking. She recalls actually saying 'they are firing over our heads' but then recalls seeing people actually being shot. She talks about the significance of Bloody Sunday and choices she made. Film clip shown of that day, Fr Edward Daly with a hankie, a body lying in the street. Fr Anthony Mulvey's reaction on the day. Then Major-General Robert Ford's comments at the scene saying that the army were being fired at and fired 3 shots in reply. He is questioned about this. Then Taoiseach Jack Lynch's TV statement, followed by news reports of the funerals, attended by 25,000 people. In the Commons Home Secretary Reginald Maudling said that the Paras only fired in self-defence. Bernadette walked across the floor and slapped him. Outside she talks to the press about it. 40 years later, after the Saville Inquiry, British Prime Minister David Cameron admitted that the army's actions were 'unjustified & unjustifiable'. Bernadette then gives her analysis of Republicanism at that time. She claims that the official Republican Movement was partitionist and reformist, and that the Provisional movement had no politics at all. Republicanism as an ideology was without articulation. She also claims that the SDLP was 'anti-socialism' and that this created a vaccum for Irish Republican Socialism. An old film clip shows her talk about militant socialism, then a clip of a meeting of left wingers in Dublin with Bernadette speaking. In 1974 Bernadette and Seamus Costello formed the Irish Republican Socialist Party. She recalls that year. She and Costello disagreed over the IRSP having a military wing. Bernadette recalls her problem with Costello over the dominant authority of militarism and why she left. In part two Bernadette talks about Loyalist paramilitaries killing of Catholics randomly. Film clip shown. She calls the mid 1970s 'a conveyor belt to prison', then the abolition of 'Special category' status for political prisoners. In 1979 she stood for EU election on prisoners' rights, despite Sinn Fein's opposition. Later in 1980/1981 public outrage and Sinn Fein policy would come together. Bernadette recalls Christmas 1980 and H-Block committees all across the island. A national network. She recalls Loyalists shooting her at this time, and lists the other H-Block committee members shot before her. She profiles the UDA's role. Film clip of her home shown. She had only just returned to live there before she was shot. She accuses the military of letting it go ahead and then arresting the UDA gunmen. She recalls her injuries as she was shot 8 times. News report shows Bernadette's interview after the attack and she talks about how it meant that peaceful opposition to the state meant that you could be murdered. Bernadette believes that by the end of the hunger strikes the IRA had suffered a massive defeat. She explains her views on this issue. Film clip of hunger strike funerals shown. After the hunger strikes ended Bernadette stepped back from front level politics to focus on local level issues between 1981-1994. The peace process had left her 'swimming against the tide'. A newspaper article from July 1994 is shown. She recalls this period and a battle of survival for her. Between 1996-1998 Bernadette's daughter Roisin was in an English jail fighting extradition to Germany on IRA bomb charges. She was never charged. Bernadette believes that her daughter's arrest was part of an attempt to silence her. Bernadette comments on her children being in trouble just for being related to her. In 1996 she formed the South Tyrone Empowerment Programme (STEP). A July 1997 interview is shown where she explains their role. Speaking presently she still works with them and explains the reason why. In Easter 2011 she gives an interview in Irish to RTE about current dissident Republican violence as part of the cycle of violence in Irish history that we need to break out of. With the Good Friday Agreement in 1998 she believes we got what we could have got in 1972. She then discusses what did we get out of the war? and the role of Republican leaders in administering British rule in the north of Ireland which she says is managing sectarianism rather than desegregating Northern Ireland in housing and education. The current parties are built on sectarianism and identity. This is where we are now. It needs challenged. She gives her opinion on Stormont today. She says it is a step too far for her. She still wants a socialist republic.
Thu 11th Jun 2015
In Derry the funeral has taken place of sectarian murder victim Paul McNally (38) who was beaten into a coma by loyalists 9 years ago. Film report with Fr Michael Canny's interview. Then Church of Ireland Minister Ken Good's comments. Then Bishop Donal McKeown comments. At Stormont the Director of the PPS, Barra McGrory, faced the Justice Committee and was criticized by Unionists. Film report begins with the review of the decision not to prosecute Gerry Adams for with-holding information about his brother's abuse of his daughter which was annoying unionists. At the meeting the DUP's Edwin Poots called the PPS a 'poor service'. Barra McGrory rejected this view. It has emerged that the sisters of murder victim Robert McCartney were to be witnesses against P Wilson & S Hughes in relation to charges of IRA membership. The case against them collapsed. Film report.
In tonight's programme Mark Carruthers asks the question 'why has the Victims' Commissioner's post been empty for over a year?' The programme begins with a Gareth Gordon film report from the Ulster Museum where 18 portraits by the artist Colin Davidson features faces of survivors of the troubles. He asks that if victims of the troubles are a priority for our politicians then why is it a year since someone has been appointed to replace Kathryn Stone? In January the salary was increased after the first round of interviews failed to produce a winner. Film of P Robinson's comments in Stormont. A new round of interviews were held in May and an announcement may be made shortly. Alex Bunting comments on his frustration the John Beggs who is running the commission in the meantime comments on his lack of legal powers to make decisions. At the Victims' Forum a number of members have left but they can only be replaced by a Commissioner. At an OFMDFM committee meeting an official is asked about this issue (Ricky) causing political tensions. In the past 4 Commissioners were appointed in order to avoid political tensions. Two of those (Patricia McBride & Mike Nesbitt) are critical of how the appointment process currently is being handled. Then further views of A Bunting. In the studio Alan Bracknell, whose father was murdered by the UVF in south Armagh in 1975, and Kenny Donaldson of Innocent Victims United give their opinions on the absence of a Commissioner and the current appointment process, plus their views on the role of a new Commissioner as each of them see it to make the post meaningful. They both give their views on the past with Kenny Donaldson saying that he is worried about a re-writing of history. Then Alan says that the Stormont House Agreement and the Eames/Bradley reports set the frameworks to be used. Both men comment on how important the issue of justice and having people in court is to them. Both have totally different perspectives and both agree that there is no 'one size fits all'. K Donaldson uses the example of a pension for injured terrorists. He says that you should compensate the abused, not the abuser. Then in the studio commentators Cathy Gormley-Heenan and Newton Emerson discuss the victims' issue.
The Orange Order and the DUP are furious over a Parades Commission decision regarding Orange bands passing St Patrick's Catholic Church as part of the annual Tour of the North parade. Film report says that bands are only allowed to play a single drumbeat out of earshot of the church. Programme begins with a review of previous bands behavior and reference made to Prince Charles visit to the church. The SDLP praises the decision but the DUP's Nelson McCausland is angry, the Orange Order statement.
Sun 14th Jun 2015
Sky Quest
British Gangsters:
Faces of the London Underworld
Presented by Bernard O'Mahony this series deals mainly with crime lords and gangsters in the UK but this episode deals with Ireland and its gangsters, many of whom were former paramilitaries during the troubles. The presenter begins with an interview with former PIRA volunteer Joe Doherty who recalls growing up as a second class citizen in Northern Ireland due to discrimination and his Catholic religion. He recalls the Civil Rights Movement and the growth of the IRA and the outbreak of inter-community violence, then the British army oppression and how he became involved with the PIRA. He was interned aged 17 and put in Long Kesh where he read about history. He recalls Bloody Sunday and the effect that it had upon him and thinking that Northern Ireland was un-reformable. He was released in June 1972 but in 1980 he was released after a shoot-out with the SAS. He revisits the scene of the gun battle and explains his plan and what happened as Captain H Westmacott was killed. He recalls his surrender. He says that he still prays for Captain Westmacott. Joe then recalls how in 1981 he and 7 other prisoners escaped from Crumlin Road jail. By 1982 Joe was in New York where he got a job. Then in June 1983 he was arrested by the FBI under a British extradition warrant. He got huge support in the USA. He was held in custody for 9 years while his legal battle progressed. Finally in 1992 he was returned to Northern Ireland where he served a further 6 years in the H-Blocks before being released under the Good Friday Agreement. After the break Loyalists Johnny Adair and Sam McCrory are profiled. They were taught from an early age that all Catholics were their enemies. Johnny Adair comments on this issue. He recalls joining the UDA. Then Sam McCrory states that the British Government was doing nothing about the IRA so they took matters into their own hands to fight back. Sam McCrory says that the UDA was just sectarian until Johnny Adair took over as then they targeted IRA men, the IRSP and their fundraisers. Adair is said to have survived 13 assassination attempts. Adair records the 1993 Shankill bombing by the PIRA that killed 9 civilians. He says that it was an attempt to kill him. He was imprisoned for leading the UDA and murder attempts on Republicans. Same McCrory says that he was in prison for conspiracy to murder. He recalls other remands that he was on as 'part of the game'. Both recall having control of the H-Blocks and Johnny Adair recalls having a dog smuggled in. He recalls Billy Wright of the LVF's murder by the INLA. Then he recalls Mo Mowlam's visit to the Maze as part of the peace process. He says that the UDA today only exists for criminality and Sam McCrory agrees. The next person profiled is Christy Dunne, Ireland's drug-dealing crime lord who defends his criminal career. He has 16 brothers and sisters and says his father before him was involved in crime. He gives an interview to B O'Mahoney on his career in crime, with details of robberies etc given. His brother Larry was jailed for 16 years for possession of heroin with intent to supply. Next up is Dubliner Wayne Hart, a former Republican. He carried out a number of robberies and in one robbery he accidentally shot dead his accomplice. He was jailed and he describes the incident and his time in Mountjoy prison. He became a heroin user while in jail. Outside jail he built up a criminal empire earning £50,000 a week in 1990/1991. His efforts led to the death of many people. Then the programme says that after the ceasefires in 1994 the IRA turned its attention to targeting drug dealers in working class areas. Hart recalls when they came looking for him. Next profile is a character that goes by the name of Buffalo Billy from Clare. He recalls his actions against drug dealers. The Irish media described him as 'a psychotic thug who terrorized communities'. He says he joined the Wolfe Tone Society in London then he joined the PIRA and engaged in activities which involved the execution of drug dealers. He defends these activities. He says that he was thrown out of the PIRA and joined the INLA to continue to go after drug dealers. He says he left in 2000 after the INLA leader in Dublin, Declan Duffy, started to protect drug dealers. Then the presenter reveals that Declan Duffy killed a British Army Recruitment Sergeant in Derby. Then names given of targets in Billy's 'Westies' gang. In 2006 Billy was arrested for the murder of Steven Imera, who he buried alive. He claims that the Gardai made him drink poison. He declares the Real IRA a 'legitimate target' for working with drug dealers and names Alan Ryan as deserving his death. B O'Mahoney reveals that he served in Northern Ireland in 1981 in the British Army but by 1986 he became a gangster in Essex.
Mon 15th Jun 2015
The PSNI Chief Constable George Hamilton has apologized to the families of the Ormeau Road bookmakers' murders after the killers' AK assault rifle was found in a London museum after the police had told the families that it had been destroyed. Film report on the 1992 murders with news clips shown then the reaction of Billy McManus, whose father was killed, to meeting the Chief Constable.
UTV Live
Coverage of Ormeau Road bookmakers' murders families meeting with the PSNI Chief Constable over the murder weapon being found in a London museum. Film report includes Billy McManus' reaction, then Thomas Duffin, then a review of the issue of collusion in the murders with old film clips of the shooting aftermath.
Mark Carruthers covers today's debate in Stormont over a Sinn Fein motion about collusion in which the DUP's Edwin Poots alleges PIRA informers are still in high posts within the party, Sinn Fein's Catriona Ruane opens the debate, saying that collusion is a tactic that the British Government has used across the world. Here they used Loyalists to kill anyone who got in their way. Then the SDLP's Dolores Kelly comments, then the UUP's Ross Hussey raises collusion between the PIRA and Garda forces in relation to the Breen/Buchanan case, and LJ Gibson, and the creation of the PIRA. The Alliance's Stewart Dickson wants legacy institutions created. Then Justice Minister David Ford's views. He says acts of collusion on both sides did exist. Then Gareth Gordon's analysis of the debate.
Documentary about the 'dirty war' in Northern Ireland and collusion between state forces and Loyalist paramilitaries. It begins with an overview then features 1970s violence with film clips then Raymond White, ex-RUC Special Branch chief, comments on the level of violence. Then historian Eamon Phoenix's view of the UDA featuring British Army commander General Tuzos' memo to 'turn a blind eye' to the UDA. Former Secretary of State Michael Mates agrees. Top Irish Civil Servant Sean Donlan talks about the UDR assisting the UDA, followed by Dave Cox of the HET's views. Malachy McDonald recalls the Loyalist bombing of The Step Inn bar in Keady in August 1972 where two people were killed. The Maria McShane comments. The bomber, RUC Sergeant J Weir, admits the attack in an interview. The bomb was made at Jim Mitchell's farm at Glenanne, Co Armagh. Next is a profile of the Loyalist bombings in Dublin & Monaghan. Aidan Shiels recalls that the Glenanne gang were blamed and J Weir agrees. Then a profile of the Miami Showband killings and other bombings are featured. Denise Mullen recalls, the Seamus Mallon of the SDLP then Ted Heath recalls Prime Minister Ted Heath's reaction. On the 4/1/1976 Loyalists killed 3 Reavey brothers. Film clip shows A Reavey being interviewed in hospital before he died. Then surviving brother Eugene's views. John Weir says that they wanted a civil war. Raymond White, then based in south Armagh, comments on the slow police response to the Loyalist killings. A reconstruction is shown of the Loyalist murder of Mick McGrath by serving police officers followed by Raymond White's comments, then B McGaughey's profile and Justice Lowry's comments. Part 2: 1980s. UUP's Ken Magennis (ex-UDR) praises Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. He recalls telling Margaret Thatcher the names of suspects after the IRA bus bomb killed soldiers at Ballygawley, Co Tyrone in August 1988. He recalls telling Thatcher the names of the suspects who were then killed by the SAS. Former NI Secretary Michael Mates comments. SDLP's Seamus Mallon comments on the UDA being legal. In August 1989 Loughlin McGinn is murdered by the UDA. The role of UDA leader Tommy Lyttle is revealed in a taped interview. Then John Stevens, whose inquiry lasted ten years, comments on information being leaked from the RUC to Loyalists. Then FRU agent Brian Nelson is profiled with comments on FRU activities, including the murder of Terry McDaid with his daughter's recollections. Then details of the murder of solicitor Pat Finucane shines a light on collusion. Geraldine Finucane's views, then lawyer Peter Madden, the Queens University Professor Kieran McEvoy. Items mentioned include the role of the UDA's William Stobie, the burning of the Stevens Inquiry offices, Nelson's arrest and UDA's Tommy Lyttle's confession that he was a Special Branch agent. Then De Silva's reports views on McVeigh followed by Raymond White's comment on what Thatcher said to him about handling agents and the lack of rules and guidelines. Then Michael Mates' views and solicitor Kevin Winters views on the Brian Nelson and the Stevens Inquiry followed ex-NI Secretary Peter Mayhew's denial. In the 1990s UDA militants take over the organization. Michael Mates rejects the idea that the British policy for handling agents was a failure. In 1991 the UDA kill Sinn Fein councillor Eddie Fullerton. At Greysteel, Co Derry, they kill 8 people. The Police Ombudsman is currently investigating 19 UDA murders at this time involving collusion. Then it's the 1994 ceasefire era. Film clips shown. In 2003 the Stevens Inquiry recommends that the FRU' Brigadier Gordon Kerr and Brian Nelson's handlers should be prosecuted. Film clip shows Stevens explaining why the DPP said no. Next a 1993 clip of General John Wilsey's comments on the Nelson case as Nelson died in 2003. Meanwhile the Finucane family is refused an inquiry by British Prime Minister David Cameron but get an apology from him in Parliament. UUP's Ken Magennis criticizes him for making the apology. Then the Finucane family's response. Last section, titled '2000s', covers Police Ombudsman Nuala O'Loan's exposure of agents with the Mount Vernon UVF. She recalls the RUC wall of silence and how she came under immense pressure not to make her revelations public. Then a profile of the UVF's Gary Haggarty and Chief Constable George Hamilton's views. Then Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly back a truth recovery process. In Dublin film of Dublin/Monaghan bombings families remembrance event with an interview with Aiden Shiels. Next, Michael Mates says that the scale of collusion was greater than he realized. Then Nuala O'Loan's views, followed by a survivor of the Step Inn attack who wants an apology. Finally self-confessed Glenanne Gang member and ex-RUC man John Weir says he has no remorse about his actions.
Tue 16th Jun 2015
Paul's Story
This programme is about the murder in Derry of Paul McAuley who died last week after spending 9 years in a vegetative state after being beaten by a Loyalist mob at a BBQ in 2006. The programme begins with coverage of the funeral service and details of the attack with footage of his injuries. Then Enda McClafferty says that only one of the gang that attacked him has been charged. In 2009 the BBC made a programme about it and it is being re-shown this week with an appeal from Paul's family to the public for information regarding his killers. Paul's mother and his friend Declan McCrossan describe Paul. He had a young daughter, he was 29 and was a Civil Servant in Belfast. Enda visits the site of the attack. Film shown of BBQ hours before the attack. At around 3am the mob attacked 3 men who were still at the bonfire. Gavin & Mark Lynch recall the attack and their injuries. Then PSNI Detective Sergeant Eddie Bell describes the force used in the attacks. Paul's skull was crushed when he was jumped on. He was bleeding heavily and his brain was starved of oxygen for 9 minutes. His mother and father comment on the sentencing of Daryl Proctor, aged 15 at the time of the attack, to 12 years in a young offenders centre. Cathy says that she spends 5 hours a day with her son in hospital, Film explains Paul's ability to know what is going on around him. The family believe that he is aware of them being around him. Dr McCann says that Paul is the most seriously injured assault victim in NI. Then Daryl Proctor's step-father Alex McClements describes him as 'a gentle giant' and says he can't understand why he got involved in the attack. His background is given. He moved to Derry aged 11, having grown up in a military family in England. Then community worker William Jackson's views on him, saying that he was not the paramilitary or sectarian type. He was convicted because Paul's blood was found on his shoes and his DNA was found on a hat left behind in the field. The judge said he showed no regrets. Paul's mother comments on this. Alex McClements says he has shown remorse and that his son is not sectarian but Enda McClafferty doubts this. He says that if you look at his Bebo page you will see a different story. It is full of sectarian remarks and praise for Loyalist killers. His friend Natasha Jackson says he didn't mean it but he is protecting the rest of the gang and will not name them. The International Monitoring Commission says that UDA was responsible for the attack. Alex McClements denies that Daryl was in the UDA. The McAuley family want him to name the other attackers but this is rejected by Alex McClements. Detective Sergeant E Bell comments. Then in the Fountain estate in Derry Enda McClafferty talks to William Jackson, a community worker, on sectarianism in the area. Cathedral youth club is profiled. On the Nationalist side Charlie McMenamin comments on reducing sectarianism. D Proctor is released after serving 6 years but still won't name names. The police want to trace a person who sent a sympathy letter to the McAuley's. Jim & Cathy McAuley comment on their views now that Paul is dead.
Headlines then at the Roseanne Mallon inquest the MoD and the RUC deny collusion claims but admit failings. Film report on the UVF murder in 1994. The Mallon family highlight 9 points that highlight collusion including an army patrol in the area and Special Branch destruction of notebooks and their failure to share intelligence with CID. The MoD lawyer said that the camera that was discovered was not trained on the Mallon house and in 1994 police notebooks weren't kept. Justice Weir reserved his judgement but also critical of the police delay in bringing forward documents.
Headlines then the family of RUC Constable Coleen McMurray who died in a PIRA rocket attack in Newry is to launch proceedings against the Chief Constable, the NI Secretary, the MoD and former PIRA agent Kevin Fulton who made the rocket and told his handlers about it. Film report with Kevin McIlmurray's comments then solicitor Kevin Winters on Kevin Fulton's involvement. The Police Ombudsman's office is also investigating the case.
In Eglinton 3 men are arrested after a bomb is found at the home of two PSNI officers. Film report with PSNI ACC Will Kerr's reaction, then comments from neighbours Danny Feeney, Jenny Bell and Niall O'Kane, then PSNI District Commander Mark McEwan's comments. The PUP has issued a report aimed at ending the underachievement in education of Protestant boys. It recommends an end to selection, a cap on the number going to grammar schools and help for poorly performing schools. PUP councillor John Kyle is interviewed on the report. In London Prime Minister David Cameron met Irish Taoiseach Enda Kenny. In a joint news conference both men comment on the welfare deadlock at Stormont and the European Union and the collusion issue. Then Mark Devenport's analysis.
Mark Carruthers introduces a film report on how an Orange parade in the Nationalist town of Dungiven passed off peacefully after dialogue between the two sides. Stephen Walker's report includes a brief history of Dungiven during the troubles with the comments of Sinn Fein councillor Sean McGlinchey The DUP's William Hay was also involved. Rory Donaghy of Dungiven Concerned Residents Association comments on the talks. Last Sunday the parade went ahead without bands or banners. The TUV's Willie Ross, a former UUP councillor, gives his reaction that no one from his lodge held talks as discussions are not needed for going to church. The Parades Commission welcomed the dialogue. Then journaistl S McCafferty says that the secret to solving parades disputes is local discussions at ground level. Then the Orange Order's Mervyn Gibson gives his views. Then in the studio Mark Carruthers talks to Mervyn Gibson and Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly about the parading issue. Mervyn Gibson starts by agreeing with Willie Ross about Dungiven and that common sense prevailed. Then they discuss the issue tomorrow regarding the Carrick Hill/St Patrick's Church flashpoint where the residents have called off their planned protest. Both men give their views and debate whether common sense is being used or not. They debate the rationale of the residents' decision and the Parades Commission's decision regarding the playing of music outside the church, which Mervyn Gibson says that they will appeal in the courts. Both men argue over the role of the Catholic priest and also who speaks for Carrick Hill, the church or the residents? Gerry Kelly says that he supports the Parades Commission's role in dealing with the parade. Mervyn Gibson denies that they want no relegation of parades. They argue over the 2010 policy that was rejected by the Orange Order. They then argue over Ardoyne and the Orange Order's talks with residents there getting nowhere with 93% of Orange parades being allowed with no restrictions. Gerry Kelly dismisses the Orange Order's complaint that there is a 'war' going on against Orange culture. Other facts are put to Mervyn Gibson who goes back to specify the Ardoyne parade and the Tour of the North parade. Gerry Kelly wants to know why the Order wants to go through contentious areas. Next Mark Carruthers discusses the parades issue with commentators Newton Emerson and Cathy Gormley-Heenan, and the judicial review and the Carrick Hill residents calling off of their protest. Both discuss what they consider a common sense approach to the parading issue and the difference between country and city parades. They both also comment on the welfare stand-off at Stormont and the 'phantom budget' idea. It's kicking the can down the road. The programme ends with a humourous look at the breakdown in communication at Stormont.
Headlines, then a further report on yesterday's booby trap bomb found attached to a PSNI officer's car by his policewoman's wife in Eglinton near Derry. Film report with 3 men being arrested in Donegal. Justice Minister David Ford comments. The Orange Order has lost its legal attempt to overturn restrictions on its Tour of the North parade in north Belfast. Film report on the rstrictions and the no music zone outside St Patrick's church, then the Orange Order's Spencer Beattie's reaction, followed by Gerry Kelly's views. The Deputy First Minister, Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness has refused to deny speculation that he will resign if Westminster attempts to force through legislation on welfare reform over the heads of Stormont. Film report from the British/Irish Council meeting in Dublin with the DUP's Peter Robinson's views on welfare reform and the Stormont House Agreement. Then Martin McGuinness comments on the resignation issue and the 'phantom budget' issue. Then Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon comments on NI after meeting Martin McGuinness.
Sat 20th Jun 2015
Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness has addressed an anti-austerity rally in London. He says tha Tory cuts are threatening power-sharing in NI. Film report. All the men arrested after the failed bomb attack in Eglington have been released. In Bryson Street in east Belfast rival gangs have clashed. Then a report of overnight arson attacks in west Belfast.
Mon 22nd Jun 2015
Headlines, then at Stormont Sinn Fein has backed the DUP's 'phantom budget' plan. Film report of anti-austerity rally in London and Martin McGuinness' speech. Then today in Belfast he says he's creating time to sort out the financial crisis by supporting the DUP's plan. Then the DUP's Arlene Foster's comments at Stormont and NI Secretary of State Teresa Villiers reaction.
Tue 23rd Jun 2015
The family of UDA murder victim Brian McIlhagga have broken their silence and made an appeal for information about his killers as the PSNI say that they have been faced with a wall of silence. Film report with his father Ronnie and his mother Jennifer interviewed. Then a review of the January murder. Then Sharon O'Neill lists other recent crimes associated with the UDA gang including a shooting in Coleraine and a beating in Ballymoney and a shooting in the same town and an attempted murder in Bushmills. PSNI DCI Michal Harvey comments on the crimes and the wall of silence facing the force. The McIlhagga family want justice. Brian had 5 children.
In Co Meath human remains have been found by the Commission for the Disappeared. The latest report states that there may be more than one body. Film report with Sarah Clarke commenting on speculation that there may be three bodies and they might be Joe Lynskey, Seamus Wright and Kevin McKee who disappeared in 1972. Then John Hill of the Commission for the Disappeared comments. Digs have been going on since March. In Co Cork Sinn Fein is facing a crisis after 54 of its members resigned in protest at the expulsion of two of its members. Film report with journalist Mary Regan's analysis of financial irregularities by the two members, which they deny. Then comments of Gareth Sutherland, former chair of Sinn Fein's Cobh branch. Then expelled Sinn Fein councillor Kieran McCarthy's reaction.
Presented by Mark Carruthers he asks is a re-write of the Stormont House Agreement on the cards? Today the five main Executive parties held a meeting to review the SHA after 6 months. Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness quoted the latest child poverty figures and told NI Secretary Theresa Villiers to 'put that in her pipe and smoke it'. The NI Secretary has revised her assessment of the agreement from 'grim' to 'bleak'. Then in the studio Alex Maskey (Sinn Fein), Mike Nesbitt (UUP) and David Ford (Alliance) discuss the issue around the future of the SHA, if it even has one. Mike Nesbitt questions the child poverty figures quote and criticizes his language towards Teresa Villiers. He criticizes the DUP for 4 years of underspend totaling £466.7 million. Then Alex Maskey replies and calls the figures a stunt. They argue this point and McGuinness' comments to Teresa Villiers. David Ford says that people need to be realistic. Norther Ireland is a regional administration, not a sovereign government and we need to live within our budget. Mark Carruthers asks them are we now going to see the implementation of the SHA or are they going to introduce a new deal. David Ford says that it looks like some want to renegotiate. Mike Nesbitt says that there is no implementation process and the DUP do not attend Monday meetings on implentation. Alex Maskey says that they are sticking to the SHA talks and supported the budget in January to buy time but on victims and legacy issues he says that it is ridiculous that these are linked to welfare reform. David Ford says that they bought time but that they are not doing anything with that time as the DUP and Sinn Fein won't engage. Alex Maskey denies this and says it's the DUP that don't turn up. Then the three politicians disagree about what the role of the British government is and what they have done to date. They also debate the CBI statement calling on them to live within their budget. They argue over who's policies are to blame, Sinn Fein or the Tories? Then in commentators corner Newton Emerson & Cathy Gormley-Heenan discuss the current impasse and what's needed to get out of the situation they are all collectively. Programme ends with a piece about rows in other parliaments.
In the search for the Disappeared in Co Meath two bodies have been found in a single grave. Film report says that the bodies are believed to be Kevin McKee and Seamus Wright, and not Joseph Lynskey, who they have been looking for. Reporter Shane Harrison reports from the scene and interviews Kevin McKee's sister Philomena who recalls the damage the murder did to their mother's health. The families appeal for more information on Joe Lynskey. The Police Ombudsman has criticized the PSNI for not being prepared for the attack on the July 2013 Orange parade at the Short Strand. Film report reviews the incident then journalists' analysis a reaction from the Orange Order's Raymond Spiers. Then Sinn Fein's councillor Niall O'Donnaghaile's reaction. The family of Pat Finucane have lost a court challenge against the decision by British Prime Minister David Cameron not to hold a public inquiry into his murder. Film report with his son John's reaction. Film clip of David Cameron apologizing to the Finucane family two years ago in Parliament. Justice Stevens wants the lawers involved in this case to return in two weeks to discuss the judgement. John Finucane is happy with that statement. An Independent Unionist MLA for south Down has been investigated for misuse of public funds but he denies having done anything wrong.
Headlines then, with two weeks to go to the 12th July Orange marches, a film report from Sarah Moore looks at the two peaceful parades that have passed off so far (Whiterock and the Tour of the North). Orange leader Mervyn Gibson has warned of increased tensions in the lead-up to the Ardoyne parade. No talks have taken place. Then Sean Murray of the Springfield Road Action Group gives his reaction calling for calm and talks. Then Chief Constable George Hamilton's views. In east Belfast loyalists have held a protest over what they say are attacks on their homes coming from the Short Strand. Film report also covers loyalist attacks on the Short Strand over the weekend. Flag protestor Willie Frazer has been attacked at his home. A 60 year old man has been arrested. Clifton Street Orange Hall has been damaged in a paint attack. At Stormont the TUV's Jim Allister is planning on bringing a Private Members Bill challenging the numbers, figures and rules regarding ministerial aids. Film report from Tracey Magee on the number of SPADs. Jim Allister interview. Then a report on 3 new MLAs at Stormont (2 UUP & 1 SDLP) including Claire Hanna replacing Alasdair McDonnell, who comments on his leadership from London.
Wed 1st Jul 2015
Sinn Fein have accused the PSNI of inaction over the erecting of flags on lampposts on Belfast's Ormeau Road after last year's promise to take them down. Film report from Judith Hill with Sinn Fein's Mairtin O'Muellieor's accusation of a PSNI u-turn. Then the DUP's Christopher Stalford's comments. Then PSNI Chief Superintendent Nigel Grimshaw's comments. The Republic's foreign affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan laid a laurel wreath at a Somme commemoration in Belfast. Film report on the ceremony with the DUP's Gary Spence's comments. Earlier the Sinn Fein Lord Mayor laid a wreath at their own event. Sinn Fein's Arder Carson comments, then Charlie Flanagan comments.
Thu 2nd Jul 2015
Headlines then the families of victims of the Omagh bomb are outraged that 4 TD's in the Dail want Real IRA leader Michael McKevitt released early from Portlaoise prison. Film report says McKevitt has cancer and reviews the Omagh bombing. Independent TD Maureen O'Sullivan defends her views, then Michael Gallagher's comments.
Mon 6th Jul 2015
Headlines then the Parades Commission has banned the Orange Order's return parade past Ardoyne for the third year in a row. Film report with Sharon O'Neill interview with Mervyn Gibson and his reaction. Then the reasons for the ban as the Parades Commission views it. Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly supports that decision. Film review of previous parades. Mervyn Gibson asks trouble-makers to stay away.
Tue 7th Jul 2015
Headlines then Stormont Finance Committee is to investigate NAMA's £7 million payment to Belfast solicitors firm Tughans. Film report with the Law Society comments on Ian Coulter and TD Mick Wallace's allegations. Film clip of Finance Committee MLAs in discussion
Wed 8th Jul 2015
The PSNI is to launch a criminal investigation along with other law enforcement agencies into NAMA deal. Film report names Ian Coulter from Tughans solicitors as receiving £7 million paid into an Isle of Man bank account for payment of so-called 'fixers'. Last week in the Dail Independent TD Mick Wallace alleged that the money was for a politician here (NI). Coulter has now left Tughans. The British Chancellor announced his budget today. Child tax credits are reduced to only the first two children. New living wage to be £9 by 2020. Personal tax allowance increased to £11,000. Then a film report looks at the local effect of the budget with local employers and parents views. Then Sinn Fein's Conor Murphy calls it an attack on the working poor whilst the DUP's Sammy Wilson welcomes the budget. Then NI Secretary Teresa Villiers defends the cuts to vulnerable people to make the welfare system more affordable to tax payers. She still supports the Stormont House Agreement on welfare reform. Then in the studio there is analysis from Economics correspondent Julian O'Neill and the Political Editor Mark Devenport's views on the effect of the budget on NI.
Thu 9th Jul 2015
In Belfast's Belvoir estate a UDA member Colin 'Bap' Lindsay (47) has been killed another man injured in a samurai sword attack. Film report says that the men had been drinking together and that the attack was not connected to any loyalist feud. PSNI DCI Richard Campbell comments. Albert Armstrong (46) was arrested nearby. Then DUP's Jimmy Spratt comments. The National Crime Agency (NCA) is to take the lead role into the NAMA investigation. Film report profiles the NCA and its expertise and international reach from Belfast to Dublin and New York. What is known so far about NAMA is detailed. In Dublin a Parliamentary committee has been questioning NAMA about what it knew. PIMCO walked away from NAMA because of the role of Frank Cushnahan who was to receive money. The NAMA chair Frank Daly explains how the £15 million was to be split. He's questioned by TD's on this issue by TDs, including Sinn Fein's Mary Lou McDonald. In the north the PR firm Verbatim run by Gareth Robinson, the son of Peter Robinson, has denied that it was involved in any way in the sale of NAMA to Cerberus.
Fri 10th Jul 2015
DUP's Peter Robinson denies that his family is getting any money from the NAMA sale. Film report with his interview with Mark Devenport in which he comments on his previous dealings with Ian Coulter and Frank Cushnahan. In the Belvoir sword that killed Colin Lindsay the other man injured, Stanley Wrightman, has died of his injuries. Albert Armstrong has been charged with murder. In east Belfast 50 Housing Executive homes have been boarded up to protect them from a massive bonfire nearby. Film report with UUP councillor Sonia Copeland saying that the bonfire is too big. Then some householders say that they don't mind the bonfire as 'its part of our culture'. Then community worker Tommy McMinn's views. Houses are also being boarded up in Carrickfergus near a bonfire.
Sun 12th Jul 2015
The Alliance Party has asked the PSNI to investigate the burning of election posters and flags on loyalist bonfires last night. They also criticize the size of a huge bonfire built in Chobham Street in east Belfast. Film report with fire chief Alan Walmsley's comments. Then Alliance councillor Michael Long's comments. More bonfires are being lit tonight. In Larne last night a man was attacked in a sectarian hate crime and in north Belfast a UDA building was attacked.
Orangemen parade across NI to celebrate the 12th July and the Battle of the Boyne. Report begins with Finaghy band breaking the Parades Commission's ruling on playing music passing St Patrick's Church. One of the bandsmen comments. Sinn Fein's Caral Ni Chuilin and the SDLP's Alban Magennis comment. Father Michael Sheehan comments on letting a bandsman use the Pariochial house toilet. Next report focuses on the main parade in Belfast including the parade at Ardoyne where nationalists protested and the wreath-laying ceremony at City Hall. Then coverage of George Chittick's speech at Barnett Park. Then the return parade where the police hope that there will be no violence. Then Vincent Kearney gives a live update from Ardoyne where restrictions have been placed on the return parade. Next report is from Bessbrook which hosted the Co Armagh where Niall Gibbons, the chief executive of Tourism Ireland, attended. He explains why. Then the Canadian Grand Master's views. Then England's Grand Master's views. Then bandsman and UUP member Danny Kinahan. In Coleraine 60 lodges marched, then Scotland's Grand Master Henry Dunbar talks about reaching out to Catholics. Then a report from Kesh in Co Fermanagh with its 70 bands. UUP Tom Elliott's view. Over the weekend the Fire Service has dealt with 52 bonfire related incidents. In Chobham Street 12 firefighters had to douse houses to protect them from the heat of the bonfire. There had been pressure on the Chobham Street bonfire builders to reduce the size of the bonfire but that didn't happen. East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson comments on what needs done. Then Alliance councillor Michael Long comments on the burning of election posters and Irish flags. The cost of cleaning up after the bonfires is between £200,000 & £300,000. In Dublin a bomb scare was declared a hoax.
At Ardoyne a 16 year old girl has been knocked down as trouble erupted when police halted a return parade and a car drove into Nationalist protestors. Film report with comments from Fr Gary Donegan. In east Belfast most bands passing St Matthews church broke the Parades Commission's rulings. The Orange Order says that a bus carrying their supporters was attacked by stone throwers in Greysteel, Co Derry. In May St in Belfast a female PSNI Officer was attacked. two people were arrested. Next report is from the Belfast parade and Finaghy True Blues band playing music outside St Patrick's Church against Parades Commission rulings. The parade laid wreathes at Belfast City Hall. Then comments from supporters on the Lisburn Road. The next report deals with images of people from S7inn Fein and the Alliance Party being burnt on bonfires. Sinn Fein's Niall O'Donnaghaile comments, then the DUP's Gavin Robinson and PSNI ACC S Martin's statement. Then film of Chobham Street Bonfire and fire chief Alan Walmsley's views.
The Twelfth
Introduced by Paul Clark this programme covers today's Orange parades across NI, beginning in Bessbrook, Co Armagh with comments from Terence Brannigan, the chairman of Tourism NI on broadening out the event and welcoming visitors. Then Niall Gibbons of Tourism Ireland's comment. The local lodge held a short service at the site of the Kingsmill memorial. 4 of the 10 killed there in 1976 were Orangemen. The local lodge had issued a letter to all homes on its route and says that all local residents were on board says bandsman and UUP MLA Danny Kennedy. Armagh county Grand Master says Belfast could learn a lot from Armagh. Paul Clark agrees. Then Grandmaster Edward Stevenson criticizes the Parades Commission. Next Judith Hill reports from Belfast where 100 lodges march along the route. Mervyn Gibson comments then Grand Marshal William Walsh comments, the Reverend William Malcolmson comments on his involvement since 1954. Then a film of wreath laying at the Cenotaph. Then a report from Kesh in Co Fermanagh with County Grand Master Stuart Brooker's comments and views of supporters at the event. Then views of Ian Kells, a past Grand Master of Australia. Next report is from Mark McFadden in Coleraine with views of District Grand Master George Duddy. Then Scottish Orange lodges Isobel Carson's views, then Henry Dunbar, the Grand Master of Scotland. He's also the Grand Imperial President. He praises the Orange family. Then over to Benburb in Co Tyrone the Robinson kids wave at their bandsman father. 70 lodges and 50 bands take part in the parade. District Master Ian McFarland's comments. Then over to Sarah Moore in Antrim with District Secretary Ronnie Steele's comments. Then the views of supporters and Australian Orangeman Herbie Mailey's views. Then WM Bobby Acheson on his lodges 190th birthday. Then over to Paul Reilly in Holywood, Co Down with 50 lodges. District Master Nigel Manley comments. Then Kircubbin Orangeman Richard Harrison on his new banner. Then Deputy Grand Master of Ireland Harold Hennings comments, then the views of spectators. Then over to Vicki Hawthorne in Ballymena with 30 lodges and 15 bands with spectators comments and past Grand Master of Scotland Ian Wilson's views followed by past Grand Master of New Zealand Charles Farrell's comments, then District Secretary Hubert Scullion. Then Paul Clark introduces coverage of the Order's parade in Rossnowlagh in Co Donegal with 50 lodges and 30 bands. Programme ends with compilation of sights & sounds of the day.
Coverage of last night's attacks on the PSNI by Orange supporters. 20 PSNI injured and a man is being questioned on suspicion of attempted murder after a car struck to people at the Ardoyne shops. A 16 year old girl was seriously injured. Film report begins with Vincent Kearney's film of the moments after the car struck two people and her being taken to hospital, then Fr Gary Donegan appeals for calm. The PSNI ACC S Martin comments on the arrest of the driver on suspicion of attempted murder then footage of Orange supporters attacking the police as they stopped the return parade. Local DUP councillor Brian Kingston is shown being confronted by angry members of the crowd. The trouble spreads to Twaddell Avenue where water cannon and plastic baton rounds are used. A senior PSNI officer has lost an ear after being hit by a brick. ACC Martin comments the live update from the area with loyalist attacks on the police continuing. ACC Martin criticizes the Orange Order for not having marshals on the parade. A further film report asks what caused the increased tension this year when last year was peaceful? After 10 years of conversations why has this problem not been resolved? Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly gives his views that unionism has to show leadership. The DUP's Nigel Dodds says the Parades Commission is to blame as he claims that it has poisoned community relations and respect for law & order. He also blames NI Secretary Teresa Villiers with her comments that she wants to press ahead with the Stormont House Agreement. Then SDLP MLA Alban Magennis says that he wants local talks. Next report is from the north-west where Orange supporters have their bus attacked returning from Coleraine in Greysteel, Co Derry. Shirley Hunter was on the bus with her two band member daughters. She gives her reaction and then the DUP's Gregory Campbell comments. Then Sinn Fein councillor Dermot Nicholl's views. In the Bogside in Derry the PSNI are attacked by 60 youths. At St Peter's Cathedral in west Belfast a priest was assaulted, robbed and locked in a room overnight. Film report with Gerard Fitzpatrick of the Divis Residents' Support Team's comments.
Wed 15th Jul 2015
Orangeman John Aughey (61) has been charged with attempted murder after he drove his car into a nationalist protest at the Ardoyne Shops yesterday. Film report reviews the case with a film clip. He gets bail with restrictions. The Orange Order's Grand Secretary Drew Nelson has criticized the Finaghy True Blues band after the played music outside St Patrick's church and then did a triumphalist dance. He then criticized the violence at Ardoyne. Film report of his speech also examines the city country split in regards to Orange parades with Fermanagh's Stuart Blocker's writing of a 'sense of shame' over events in Belfast but Drew Nelson denies any split and says that Orangemen weren't responsible for the violence. Ian Coulter, the solicitor at the centre of the NAMA scandal has said that no politician or family members were to be paid any money from his Isle of Man bank account but Independent TD Mick Wallace is not backing down from his claim that a politician was to be paid.
Thu 16th Jul 2015
More attacks by loyalist youths on the PSNI overnight in north Belfast. Film report on the petrol bomb attacks with a PSNI statement, then DUP councillor Brian Kingston's reaction. Also in Belfast, a 31 year old man was shot in the chest in Areena Drive in Dunmurry and in the New Lodge area a man was shot in the legs. In Derry the PSNI have arrested a man in his 20s as part of their enquiries into the murder of Paul McCauley who died after 9 years in a coma. A former policeman from Carrick, Richard Burke, has admitted pushing a black man off a train in Paris but denies that he is a racist, saying that the black man started the confrontation. Film report of court appearances of Chelsea fans with film clip.
In the courts Belvoir man Albert Armstrong has been charged with the murder of S Wightman, as well as with that of Colin Lindsay in a samurai sword attack after Wightman died from his injuries. Film report covers Colin Linsay's funeral today. In Derry a 24 year old man will appear in court tomorrow charged with the murder of Paul McCauley who died after 9 years in a coma. The DUP are demanding to meet the PSNI Chief Constable after masked men fired a volley of shots over the coffin of Peggy O'Hara (mother of INLA hunger striker Patsy O'Hara). Film report with DUP's Nelson McCausland's reaction to the PSNI inaction, the Independent Republican councillor Gary Donnelly's views. He was at the funeral. In Scotland a jury has failed to reach a verdict in the trial of 3 men on a charge of plotting to kill former UDA leader J Adair.
Sat 18th Jul 2015
In Derry courts Piper John McClements (aka Daryl Proctor) has been charged with the 2006 murder of Paul McCauley at a BBQ in the city. He had previously been convicted of GBH in this case. Paul McCauley spent 9 years in a coma before he died. In Lurgan homes have had to be evacuated due to a security alert. In Strabane the funeral has taken place of Peggy O'Hara, three days after masked men fired a volley of shots over her coffin.
In Scotland 3 men have been convicted of plotting to kill the loyalists Johnny Adair and Sam McCrory. Film report says that MI5 had bugged the homes of the defendants named as Anton Duffy, M Hughes and Paul Sands. Clips of a secret recording of Anton Duffy commenting on an AK rifle are played. 1300 conversations between the co-accused were recorded and details of their plan revealed. Then journalist Henry McDonald comments. The men will be sentenced next month. In Belfast a DUP delegation has met with senior PSNI officers to discuss the paramilitary trappings at the funeral of Peggy O'Hara. Film report of masked men marking in Derry days after shots were fired over her coffin. The DUP's Gregory Campbell gives his views the ACC Will Kerr's statement. P Robinson & Martin McGuinness both comment on Twitter then Adele Kelly, Peggy O Hara's grand-daughter defends the paramilitary funeral. Film report mentions Colin 'Bap' Lindsay's loyalist funeral last Friday with reaction from the SDLP's Claire Hanna
Tue 21st Jul 2015
In London a Sinn Fein delegation has met Prime Minister David Cameron where forthright views were expressed on both sides. The meeting comes a day after the Chancellor's latest round of welfare cuts were backed by MPs. Film report from Tracey Magee on new austerity cuts of £12 billion, the a film of DUP's Sammy Wilson's question to the Chancellor, then Arlene Foster on the situation. The government has said that any future royal pardons in NI should be published but have ruled out publishing the names of any former paramilitaries who received 'on the run' letters in case this might jeopardise any future prosecutions.
Headlines then overnight shots were fired at a home in Rodney Drive in west Belfast. The family says it was a case of mistaken identity. Film report with comments of householder Mary McQuillan and her daughter. Last week Paul Harbinson had his hands nailed to his kitchen worktop by loyalist paramilitaries in a punishment attack. Tonight he gives an interview on the attack and his injuries. He admits taking drugs but denies selling them. At the weekend in Belfast anti-internment bonfires caused damage to property in the Beechmount area. Film report includes film clip of joyriders in a stolen car in Divis Street, with comments from Sandra Moore of the Welcome Centre. Then Sinn Fein's Niall O' Donnaghaile's comments. In Newtowabbey a bomb alert is declared a hoax.
Former PIRA member Kevin McGuigan was shot dead in the Short Strand area of Belfast last night. He had been questioned about the May murder of Jock Davidson in the Markets area. Film report profiles the falling out between the two men then PSNI DCI John McVea's comments. Then comments from Sinn Fein's Alex Maskey and Niall O'Donnaghaile who deny that the PIRA were involved and won't speculate on who killed Kevin McGuigan. In Stormont Peter Robinson says that there will be serious political implications if the PIRA are found to be involved. Film report with his comments on the killing. He also refers to the political stalemate over welfare reform and the dangers of a void in politics being filled by gunmen. He also gives his view on the current inter-party talks on welfare reform.
Coverage of the murder of former PIRA volunteer Kevin McGuigan in Belfast's Short Strand. First report with comments from DCI John McVea on the killing. Then a statement from Kevin's mother Margaret. Then comments from neighbor Angela Bradley on what she heard and saw during the shooting. A report then details the ill feeling between McGuigan & Davidson. A further report covers the political reaction to the murder from Peter Robinson who warns of serious political repercussions and outlines what the DUP will do. Then Sinn Fein's Alex Maskey denies PIRA involvement in the murder, then reaction from the SDLP's Alasdair McDonnell and UUP's Mike Nesbitt.
Fri 14th Aug 2015
At Palace Barrack, Holywood, and incendiary device has exploded inside a parcel delivery van. Film report from the scene with DUP MLA Alex Easton's reaction. Keven McGuigan, who was shot dead outside his home on Wednesday, had been warned by the PSNI that he was under threat from republicans after the murder of Jock Davidson. Film report profiles Kevin McGuigan's PIRA involvement and his involvement with the group Direct Action Against Drugs (DAAD), which killed more than 12 drug dealers. His fall-out with the PIRA is mentioned. Sinn Fein's Alex Maskey denies that Sinn Fein had any role in the murder. Then the sister of Robert McCartney, who was killed in the Markets in 2005 (allegedly on the orders of Jock Davidson) says that the PSNI are not capable of investigating politically sensitive murders, for fear of damaging the peace process. Catherine McCartney explains her views. A man and a woman are still in PSNI custody over the killing.
Funeral of Kevin McGuigan in St Matthew's church in the Short Strand. Film reports with comments from Fr John Nevin condemning violence and revenge. The PSNI make four arrests and two guns were seized. In north Belfast sectarian anti-Protestant graffiti has appeared at Mill Road shared community housing development warning Protestants to stay out. Film report with DUP councillor Thomas Hogg's reaction. Then a Clanmil Housing Association statement. Then Sinn Fein councillor Michael Goodman's reaction. At Royal Mail sorting office in Mallusk there is a bomb scare.
Headlines then coverage of Kevin McGuigan's funeral and PSNI enquiries so far, with Fr Nevin's sermon about violence and revenge.
Headlines then the PSNI have arrested 6 men, including Shankill bomber Sean Kelly as part of their enquiries into the Kevin McGuigan murder. Film report with profile of Sean Kelly and the 1993 bomb. Two guns have also been found. The Ballymurphy Massacre families have received letters from the Crown Solicitors Office saying that the MOD haven't yet identified the paratroopers involved in the killings, plus the PSNI officer assigned to the case has been moved off it. Film report with victim Joe Corr's daughter Eileen McKeown's reaction, then solicitor Padraig O'Muirigh, then Sinn Fein MLA Pat Sheehan's reaction.
The PSNI say they believe PIRA members were involved in the murder of Kevin McGuigan. Film report of Superintendent Kevin Geddes press conference remarks on the role of DAAD, separate from the PIRA, but he does not say that the PIRA leadership sanctioned the murder. He is questioned about his statement by Vincent Kearney, who then, in the studio with Stephen Walker, discuss the PSNI statement and the degree of confusion in it, plus the follow up statement from the PSNI re-affirming Kevin Geddes' comments. The PSNI won't comment on the questions raised about the PIRA's existence when the PSNI use the phrase 'PIRA command structure'. Then Stephen Walker comments on some political following the PSNI statement as it contradicts Alex Maskey's claim that PIRA were not involved. Then a tweet from Martin McGuinness stating that the killers of Jock & Kevin are criminal and must be brought to justice. Stephen Walker says that the political parties want more information. In an interview the DUP's Gregory Campbell says that he is isn't surprised to hear that the PIRA was involved in some capacity. He says it is not clear from the PSNI statement whether the PSNI still exist or not. He will be meeting the Chief Constable soon to discuss this matter. He rejects Martin McGuinness' comments and outlines the DUP position on the matter. In courts Patrick Fitzpatrick has been arrested as a suspect in the Kevin McGuigan murder and has been charged with possession of a gun.
Fri 21st Aug 2015
UTV Life
PSNI make another arrest in their investigation into the Kevin McGuigan murder as the Police Federation gives its reaction to the suggestion that the PIRA were involved. Film report of the political fallout from last week's killing and following last week's PSNI press conference the question is being asked 'Does the PIRA still exist?' The DUP's Gregory Campbell gives their reaction, then Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly's views, then the TUV's Jim Allister wants Sinn Fein put out of government. Alliance's Stephen Farry gives their view. Then from Stormont Tracey Magee reports on the SDLP's Alasdair McDonnell's views about the existence of PIRA then Mike Nesbitt of the UUP wants more information about the PIRA chain of command in this killing. Both comment on any DUP exclusion attempt against Sinn Fein. Tracey Magee doesn't think that the Stormont Executive is about to collapse. Then security journalist Brian Rowan comments on the pressure now on George Hamilton over whether PIRA still exist or not.
Sat 22nd Aug 2015
PSNI Chief constable George Hamilton has said that there is no information as present to confirm that the murder of Kevin McGuigan was sanctioned by the PIRA at a senior level. Film report on the Chief Constable's press conference. After meeting political parties he said that PIRA were of no threat to society in its current form. The report covers the Chief Constable's meeting with Sinn Fein. Afterwards Gerry Kelly maintains that PIRA has left the stage. Then Mike Nesbitt thanks the PSNI for being open and frank but that he thinks that PIRA still exist and says that Sinn Fein's reputation is in tatters. Then Alasdair McDonnell says that the PIRA structures still exist but the killing wasn't sanctioned. Gregory Campbell says the political consequences must be dealt with now.
Coverage of the Chief Constable's press conference on the murder of Kevin McGuigan and links to Direct Action Against Drugs and the PIRA. He says that the PIRA still exists as an organization but there is no evidence that the PIRA leadership sanctioned the murder. Film report from Vincent Kearney then a further report on political reaction from Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly, UUP's Mike Nesbitt, DUP's Gregory Campbell and the SDLP's Alasdair McDonnell.
Sun 23rd Aug 2015
Headlines, then NI Secretary Teresa Villiers says that it is not a surprise that the PIRA still exists. In a film clip Vincent Kearney asks the Chief Constable George Hamilton for his current assessment of the PIRA. He says that there is an infrastructure in place but not involved in terrorist activity and they pursue a peaceful republican agenda within the peace process. He says that individual members may be involved in crime, such as the Kevin McGuigan murder, but are not influenced by political commentary or consequences. He avoids questions as to whether the Army Council still exists. Next Chris Page interviews NI Secretary Teresa Villiers on her remarks that the PIRA still exists. Film clip shown of Gerry Adams saying that the IRA has gone away. Then the DUP's Jeffrey Donaldson on being in government with Sinn Fein, then Ian Paisley Jr on excluding Sinn Fein from the Executive but Teresa Villiers thinks that this is not necessary at present, then Alliance Party's Stephen Farry's views followed by the SDLP's Dolores Kelly and then the UUP's Mike Nesbitt mentions the possibility of leaving the Executive. In Derry Conal Kerrigan (25) is found dead at the city walls.
Mon 24th Aug 2015
Headlines then a special report on the Kevin McGuigan murder looks at who gave the order to kill him and why. Sharon O'Neill begins her report with a review of the murder in the Short Strand with eyewitness Angela Bradley's recollections of what happened. Analysis of the fallout between Jock Davidson & Kevin McGuigan. Journalist Hugh Jordan comments. The McGuigan family social media tweets blame PIRA, then journalist Allison Morris' view on the PIRA's attitude towards defending 'their own'. Sharon O'Neill then examines the Chief Constable's comments on the PIRA, its status today and DAAD. Then Gerry Adams calls the Davidson & McGuigan killers 'not the IRA'. Hugh Jordan says that both men are just another statistic. Then in the studio Sharon O'Neill and Paul Clark discuss the role, if any, that PIRA played in the murder. Sharon O'Neill asks the Chief Constable who ordered the murder. He says that he has no information to suggest that the IRA hierarchy ordered it. He refuses to name who he thinks is in charge of the IRA.
The UUP says that it is resigning from the Executive and is going to be the opposition as a response to what it says is the PIRA killing of Kevin McGuigan and to the fact that the PSNI say that the PIRA still exists. Film report with Mike Nesbitt saying that it is a matter of principle. Then Sinn Fein accuses the UUP of electioneering and he points to the number of times when the UUP have shared platforms with Loyalist paramilitaries. Then the DUP's Nigel Dodds says that it should be Sinn Fein who should be punished through exclusion. Then Steven Walker's report looks back to 2001 when Stormont collapsed over the 'guns & government' issue, then 2002 'spy ring' allegations collapses the Executive. However this time the SDLP's Alasdair McDonnell says the UUP has been too hasty. He explains why. Then Alliance's Stephen Farry agrees. In the Republic Joan Burton TD comments. The TUV's Jim Allister says that the DUP is turning a blind eye to murder. Analyst Henry Bell comments. Next film report of a vox pop of public opinion on the UUP walkout on the Shankill Road and then in Andersonstown. Then in the studio Mike Nesbitt gives an interview explaining his rationale (murder on the streets and the knowledge that the IRA still exists). There is no mutual trust with Sinn Fein. He says Sinn Fein is in denial. He denies that he is electioneering and says he is not a hypocrite for sitting on forums with Loyalist paramilitaries. He says that there are no Loyalist paramilitaries in government. He comments on joint Unionist action on this issue. A former preacher and advisor to DUP MP David Simpson has been convicted of voyeurism after putting cameras in the toilets in the DUP office in Portadown in 2012. Film report with David Simpson's comments. In Belfast's Village area a house has been petrol bombed.
The UUP is withdrawing from the Stormont Executive to form an opposition over what they say is the murder of Kevin McGuigan and the continued existence of the PIRA. Film report covers today's today's developments at Stormont begins with UUP's leader Mike Nesbitt's announcement, then reaction from Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly who says that the UUP is electioneering. Then the DUP's Nigel Dodds says that Sinn Fein should be punished for wrongdoing, not Unionists. Then TUV leader Jim Allister says it is make up your time for the DUP. Then NI Secretary Teresa Villiers' statement. Then in the studio Paul Clark asks Mike Nesbitt what he hopes to achieve by pulling out of the Executive. He replies that it is a point of principle. He criticizes Sinn Fein's denials and denies that he is electioneering or manufacturing a crisis. He believes that an opposition should be offered to the electorate and he is putting his country before party. Then a film report from Sharon O'Neill profiles the recent trends in the UUP's electoral fortunes. They now have two MPs at Westminster after years of having no MPs. Commentator Alex Kane gives his analysis of Mike Nesbitt's decision to leave the Executive. Then from south Antrim constituency a vox pop of voters' views. Then Alex Kane's views of the likely DUP response. Then back in the studio Tracey Magee gives her opinion on what the UUP withdrawal will mean for power-sharing. If it doesn't lead to the collapse of Stormont she says that the DUP will get the UUP's minister's post, leaving the DUP as the only Unionist party in the Executive. She comments on the Sinn Fein position that the PIRA has gone away. Meanwhile the Chief Constable George Hamilton is speaking at a cross-community reconciliation event in Derry where he shared a platform with WAVE's Alan McBride and Sinn Fein's Declan Kearney. He said he believed that Sinn Fein was committed to the peace process. Film report where George Hamilton states that he believes that the PIRA still exists. Declan Kearney says that he is sorry for the pain and hurt caused by Republicans during the 'war' and for the pain of IRA volunteers killed. Alan McBride and Patricia McBride give their reactions.
The DUP insists that it is not 'business as usual' at Stormont until the PIRA situation is resolved. Film report from Tracy Magee reviews today's meeting between the DUP and NI Secretary Teresa Villiers. The DUP want Teresa Villiers to exclude Sinn Fein from the Executive, Nigel Dodds says that they will take action with or without her support and force Sinn Fein to deal with this matter. Then Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly denies that there is still a PIRA and accuses the Unionists of playing party politics. He says that Sinn Fein has a mandate and says that the Unionist parties' tactic haven't worked before and aren't working now. Then the SDLP's Alasdair McDonnell and the Alliance's Stephen Farry give their reactions and say that the UUP have acted prematurely. The next report is a vox pop of voters in the Shankill and the Falls areas and profiles messages written on the peace wall. Then back in the studio the Newsletter's Sam McBride and Nationalist commentator Brian Feeney join Paul Clark to discuss the options facing Sinn Fein and the DUP and could the DUP bring down Stormont. Sinn Fein want talks with the British & Irish governments to keep Stormont up and running. They also discuss how Unionists view the entire peace process and Sinn Fein's worries about any effect on the Eire election. In Derry a 30 year old man has been shot in the legs in front of his pregnant partner. Film report on dissident Republican attack with comments from Sinn Fein councillor Eric McGinley. At Stormont the Law Society have told the Finance Committee that it was told by the National Crime Agency not to answer any questions about Tughans solicitors and the NAMA scandal.
Headlines, then the UUP Executive meets tomorrow to discuss Mike Nesbitt's decision to leave the Executive and form an opposition. A film report from Steven Walker examines what could happen if the UUP Executive to vote for the party to leave the Stormont Executive and the steps that would follow that decision. QUB's professor Rick Wilford and UU's professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan comment.
Sun 30th Aug 2015
The UUP Executive has backed Mike Nesbitt's plan to resign from the Stormont Executive this week. Film report with Mike Nesbitt's press conference explaining why they are leaving the Stormont Executive and what he expects Sinn Fein to do now.
Mon 31st Aug 2015
The DUP's Peter Robinson wants intensive talks to end the current crisis and discuss the relationship between paramilitary organisations and members of the Stormont Executive. Meanwhile Sinn Fein's Conor Murphy says that Unionist parties are engaged in a sham fight motivated by electoral considerations.
Tue 1st Sep 2015
In London the DUP's Peter Robinson has met the Prime Minister David Cameron to ask that Stormont be suspended for 4 weeks. Film report on today's meeting with Peter Robinson's comments outside No 10 on taking unilateral action if necessary. Earlier in Stormont a DUP motion to have government suspended for 4 weeks was defeated. At a Sinn Fein press conference Martin McGuinness stated that they want a meeting with David Cameron to urge no interference in the status of Stormont. Also today the NI Secretary Teresa Villiers was in Dublin to meet the Justice and Foreign Affairs Ministers to discuss legacy issues contained in the Stormont House Agreement. Speaking beforehand, she did seem to support the idea of talks. Also today the UUP's Regional Development Minister resigned. Mike Nesbitt comments on the talks over the Sinn Fein/IRA issue. In Dublin the Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan the idea of talks on the issue. A statement is also released from David Cameron supporting the idea of talks with no mention of suspension. Then analysis from Ken Reid in the studio on the different parties' positions and the position of David Cameron and the British government's position. The SDLP's Alban Magennis, Alliance's Stephen Farry and the DUP's Nigel Dodds debate the different party positions on the current Stormont crisis. Sinn Fein and the UUP declined an invitation to take part. Nigel Dodds gives his views on what David Cameron told them today. He criticizes the UUP's move. He also comments on their call for a suspension of Stormont and that they will take action if that is declined. Then Alban Magennis comments on why they favour talks rather than a suspension. Then Nigel Dodds outlines why the DUP do not believe it can be 'business as usual' at Stormont as Sinn Fein cannot continue as normal after the Chief Constable's comments on the Kevin McGuigan murder. He won't say what action the DUP will take if they don't get a suspension. A Magennis states his fear that a suspension will hinder politics. S Farry gives his view on suspension. N Dodds says that he wants government with parties that are not linked to paramilitaries who execute people in the street. He wants the Stormont House Agreement implemented. He won't say if there will be an Assembly by Christmas.
Clonard Commemoration Committee
DVD (not broadcast)
Out of the Ashes: The Story of Clonard
This documentary was made by the Clonard Commemoration Committee and is narrated by Sean Murray. It begins with a film of Clonard Garden of Remembrance of the district's troubles dead and Clonard monastery. The narrator, using old film clips, gives the history of the Clonard district beginning in the 19th Century and profiles the growing Catholic community. On October 4th 1908 Clonard Monastery started to be built. 1899 saw a sectarian outbreak. 1920-1922 pogroms profiled. 20 people are murdered in Clonard alone. State forces are involved. 26/9/1920 Ned Trodden, John McFadden & Volunteer Sean Gates. Then 23/4/1921 volunteers Dan & Pat Duffin are murdered. RUC Sergeants Glover & Clark are murdered by the IRA. Clonard volunteers' role in Co Cavan is profiled. Then the new NI Special Powers Act 1922 is described. Its aim is to keep Nationalists as second class citizens. Easter 1942 on Kashmir Road the RUC kill Tom McWilliams and his comrades are arrested. Alfie Hannaway comments on Tom McWilliams execution. 5 others are reprieved and his memories of the events on 2/9/1922. In January 2000 Tom McWilliams remains are moved to Milltown cemetery. On 31/8/1942 Volunteer G O'Callaghan is killed by the RUC. In March 1943 S Rottenburn escaped from jail. On 12/2/1944 he is killed by the RUC. In the 1956 border campaign Anne Ward, the niece of volunteer P MacAirt, recalls visiting him in jail. The campaign failed and the Republican movement rejected violence. This led to a split in 1969. Profile of the civil Rights movement with film clips of the RUC attacking civil rights marchers. Then in August 1969 Orange mobs invade Clonard. Film clips shown of Bombay Street. Finn Gerard McAuley is killed. His mother Nellie McAuley describes his character and his death, and the aftermath. Then Sean Murray says that out of the ashes of Bombay Street arose the Provisional IRA. Film of men training with arms. On 27/10/1970 Volunteer Peter Blake is killed. 'C' Coy 2nd Battalion is the PIRA in Clonard. Film of Paras on patrol with local women's commentary on their behavior. Then women on Kashmir Road attacking soldiers. Then the effects of internment profiled. Film clip of the Ballymurphy area shown. On 11/8/1971 Volunteer Seamus Simpson is killed. His brothers Sean & Joe recall his death (shot by British soldiers) and their Republican family ancestors from the 1940s. On 7/1/1972 Benny O'Neill is killed on active service. Sean Murray Sr and Pat McVeigh recall how he died at his memorial plaque. Then Seamy Collins comments on the O'Neill family's Republican history. The narrator then talks about 'C' Company's role in the economic bombing campaign of the PIRA. On 9/3/1972 4 volunteers, Tony Lewis, Tom McCann, John Johnston and Gerard Crossan and killed in Clonard in a premature explosion. Sean Murray and Pat McVeigh recall the event. Then Billy Johnston recalls his brother John. Then Damien Crossan recalls his brother Gerard, then Ray Lewis on his brother. Newspaper clip shown. Then Larry Scullion on his brother in law Tom McCann's death. On 23/3/1972 Sean O'Riordan was shot dead by the British army in Clonard. His mother Flo recalls his life and death. The programme then focuses on Loyalist attacks with the murder of Joe McKenna in 1973. His nephew Joseph recalls the murder. The programme then focuses on the struggle in the H-Blocks over political status that then develops into the Hunger Strikes. Photo of Volunteer John McMullan. Volunteer Martin McKenna's girlfriend Christine Poland recalls him, Sinn Fein's National Organiser, who died in a car crash. Then on 2/2/1981 veteran Republican Liam Hannaway Dies. Then Pat Sheehan, a former hunger striker, recalls his arrest in 1978, the blanket protest in H4 and his father's efforts to try to stop him going on hunger strike. The IRA leadership's communication also shocked him. He survived the hunger strike as it ended on 3/10/1981. He was 7.5 stone weight and in danger of dying. He recovered well. On 25/6/1986 Volunteer Brian Dempsey was killed in a road accident in Co Tyrone whilst on IRA business and on 2/5/1987 Volunteer Finbar McKenna was killed in an attack on an RUC barracks. His sister Roisin recalls her brother's death. Film of RUC attack on his funeral. On 6/3/1988 Clonard Volunteer Danny McCann is killed in Gibraltar with Sean Savage and Mairead Farrell. Sinn Fein councillor Joe Austin recalls the Gibraltar 3. Then Sean Savage's parents' comments and Danny McCann's father. Then film clip of Clonard's memorial garden and Sean Murray praises the families.
Wed 2nd Sep 2015
The Historical Abuse Inquiry sitting in NI has heard evidence today about the murder of a 15 year old boy Bernard Taggart from St Patrick's Boys' Home in west Belfast who was shot dead in 1973 by the PIRA. Film report with old film clip of his funeral. In politics its been another busy day of meetings at Stormont. Political Editor Steven Walker reports on Alliance Party meeting with the Chief Constable. Meanwhile in Dublin the SDLP met the Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan and in Belfast NI Secretary Teresa Villiers met a Sinn Fein delegation. Afterwards Alex Maskey gives their view that they would be hostile to any suspension of Stormont. Then Steven Walker reports on the war of words between the UUP & DUP, with Mike Nesbitt claiming that the DUP are 'all over the place' and Arlene Foster's response.
Thu 3rd Sep 2015
Businessman G Graham gives sensational evidence to the Stormont Finance Committee on the NAMA sale. He says that he has recorded conversations with bankers, businessmen and politicians. Film report on his evidence in which he alleges possible criminal conduct, with analysis from BBC Economics Editor John Campbell. G Graham, owner of Sean Graham's Bookmakers, chose not to name names at the committee. Sinn Fein's Mairtin O'Mueilleor comments. The committee also wants to hear from Loyalist blogger and flag protester Jamie Bryson, who has made accusations against the DUP. Following the drowning of a 3 year old Syrian boy in the Mediteraennian Sea and the Syrian refugee crisis M McGuinness has telephoned David Cameron to urge action and allow NI to take a couple of thousand refugees. Film report with M McGuinness' comment and agreement from the DUP's J Donaldson. Then the view of immigration lawyer Barbara Muldoon. Then Jolenna Flett from the Migrant Centre's views. Meanwhile at Stormont there is still deadlock over the issue of the continued existence or not of the PIRA. The British government has called for cross-party talks to try to resolve the issue. Film report. The next report is about the Chief Constable's attendance at a Policing Board meeting where he says that he would support setting up an independent body to monitor the PIRA and other paramilitary groups. He also said that the PIRA's Active Service Units (ACUs) no longer existed. Film report from Vincent Kearney. J Craig (DUP) asks the Chief Constable if he still believes PIRA members killed Kevin McGuigan. The Chief Constable replies that nothing has changed since his first statement. As the rift between the DUP & UUP widens a former DUP councillor in Lisburn, Jenny Palmer, has joined the UUP. Film report from Gareth Gordon on Jenny Palmer's grievance with the DUP, then a DUP statement and UUP's Mike Nesbitt's reaction and analysis of commentator Alex Kane. At the Historical Abuse enquiry the sister of 15 year old Bernard Taggart, abducted from St Patrick's care home and shot, Alice Harper has talked about her brother's death. Her father was killed by the Paras is 1971 in Ballymurphy.
NI Secretary Teresa Villiers says that the British government will implement the legislation for welfare reform here if the talks process fails. In reaction Sinn Fein & the SDLP have accused the DUP of helping the DUP. Film report with Teresa Villiers' comments then reactions from M McGuinness, A Attwood & Arlene Foster.
At Stormont the DUP say it cannot be 'business as usual' as a man has been murdered by people linked to a party in government. Peter Robinson announces that there will be no more meetings of the Executive, or the North/South Ministerial Council and raises the possibility of ministerial resignations if the cross-party talks on paramilitarism and Sinn Fein do not proceed quickly. Then Sinn Fein's Conor Murphy's reaction to the DUP move and NI Secretary Teresa Villiers comments yesterday. Also TUV's Jim Allister & UUP Mike Nesbitt's reaction to the DUP move. Then the SDLP's Alex Attwood's views and David Ford of the Alliance Party. Stormont also had a Sinn Fein debate today condemning the murders of K McGuigan & Jock Davidson, which only highlighted SF/DUP divisions. Then Political Editor Mark Devenport's analysis of the DUP's announcement and the beginning of inter-party talks tomorrow.
Presented by Mark Carruthers this new series begins with coverage of Peter Robinson's announcement of stopping normal business at Stormont following the Chief Constable's claim that individual members of the PIRA were involved in the killing of Kevin McGuigan. He announced that there would be no more meetings of the Executive or the North/South Ministerial Council, and he raises the possibility of DUP ministerial resignations if inter-party talks fail to resolve the issue to their satisfaction. Film report of his comments and then the reaction of Sinn Fein's Conor Murphy who views the whole thing as internal Unionist electioneering and he warns the NI Secretary not to take back powers regarding welfare reform. Then analysis from Steven Walker on the DUP & Sinn Fein positions in this current crisis. Also in the chamber today a Sinn Fein motion condemning the Davidson & McGuigan murders was debated. Film report covers extracts of speeches from Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly, then the DUP's Lord Morrow mentions the Robert McCartney & Paul Quinn murders. SDLP's Alban Magennis rejects Gerry Kelly's claim that the PIRA 'went away' in 2005. The UUP's Mike Nesbitt and Alliance's Trevor Lunn comment. The motion was passed with an oral vote. When Justice Minister David Ford arrived to answer questions he was asked about the two murders, dealing with the legacy of the past and also his planned closure of some courthouses. Film report covers his question time answers, including to a question from the TUV's Jim Allister about PIRA members in the Executive. Also facing questions today was Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness (Sinn Fein). He was asked about the make-up of the 9 new Executive departments which will replace the current 12 departments next year, especially the Department of the Communities. Then the DUP's Gregory Campbell asks him if he would help to unite the communities by admitting his activities in the PIRA in Derry. He is then asked about the Syrian refugee crisis and NI's role in helping with this. Then a question from the UUP about going into opposition and the Stormont House Agreement. Next report covers the SDLP's Patsy McGlone's report on the Corporation tax Inquiry his committee worked on with response from MLAs from all parties. Then final comments from Steven Walker on today's business and a warning from the speaker Mitchel McLaughlin (SF) about member's behavior, as well and the resignation of UUP MLA Michael Copeland due to ill health and a preview of tomorrow's talks on paramilitarism.
Tue 8th Sep 2015
The political parties are back at Stormont for talks designed to break the current political deadlock. Film report from Mark Devenport who reports on NI Secretary Teresa Villiers statement giving the British government's view of the current situation. She says that she will suspend Stormont if the parties fail to reach agreement on paramilitary activity and welfare reform but it will be as a last resort. Local parties' responses and that of Charlie Flanagan (Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs). Next item is a preview of tonight's BBC Spotlight programme, where Kevin McGuigan's family claim that they have been warned by the PSNI that their lives are under threat from Republican 'elements'. Next report confirms that the bodies of two men found in a bog in Co Meath are those of two of the 'Disappeared', Kevin McKee & Seamus Wright. The film report profiles the two men and their families' reactions. Then Geoff Knupfer from the Commission for the location of the Disappeared comments, followed by Sinn Fein's Gerry Adams' statement. The British government today lost its legal challenge to try and force the Finucane family to pay its legal costs for their legal challenge to try to force PM David Cameron to hold a public inquiry into the death of Pat Finucane with John Finucane's reaction.
'The IRA - Have they gone away?'
The programme begins with a review of the cause of the current political crisis at Stormont, the murder of Gerard 'Jock' Davidson and Kevin McGuigan. In the case of the latter the Chief Constable George Hamilton pointed the finger at members of the PIRA and others and the real question is are the PIRA back and involved in killing people? After the opening titles a news clip revisits the murder of Jock Davidson in the Markets area. Clip shown of his funeral. Then Darragh McIntyre profiles Jock Davidson, a former PIRA commander in Belfast and a community worker. Film clip of Gerry Kelly & Bobby Storey at his funeral. His beret & gloves, and a Republican guard of honour are shown. Then a news report of the murder of Kevin McGuigan and a profile of his PIRA career. The local GAA provided his guard of honour. Niall O'Donnaghaile was the sole Sinn Fein representative. A Tricolour was the only hint of his PIRA past. When the PSNI said that PIRA members were involved in his murder this set off a chain reaction for Unionists which threatened the Stormont Assembly. News clip of Peter Robinson's reaction. The report profiles the relationship between Davidson & McGuigan over the years, firstly in school, then in the PIRA and in prison. Ex-PIRA prisoner recalls McGuigan. After the PIRA's 1994 ceasefire they continued to murder but it was under the name Direct Action Against Drugs (DAAD). Film clips of their shooting shown then commentator Brian Feeney outlines the role of Davidson & McGuigan within DAAD. It ended in 2001 but by then 12 people had been killed. In 2003 McGuigan fell out with the IRA. Davidson was not the PIRA OC in Belfast. On September 8th 2003 McGuigan was shot by the PIRA in the legs and arms. Anthony McIntyre, now a critic of Sinn Fein, recall McGuigan in hospital and what he told him about Davidson's role in the shooting. Then in 2005 in Magennis's bar in the Markets area Robert McCartney is stabbed to death after a row with Davidson. Film clip shown. Catherine McCartney describes what happened that night, and Davidson's key role in it and the PIRA cover-up. And their denials. Jock was never charged and no-one was ever convicted. That summer the PIRA formally ended is war. Film shown of Seanna Walsh reading out the IRA statement. PIRA dump their arms but the killing didn't stop. The parents of Paul Quinn from Cullyhanna recall his murder in 2007. Gerry Adams denies any Republican involvement. The International Monitoring Commission (IMC) concluded that the attackers included members and former members of the PIRA but it says that PIRA chiefs did not sanction the murder. In 2008 the IMC said that the IRA was being allowed to 'wither away' but a film clip of Bobby Storey's speech after the arrest of Gerry Adams seemed to threaten a PIRA reaction. Then D Lawn says that Davidson and McGuigan clashed in Ormeau Avenue. McGuigan called Davidson an informer. Then a film clip of the aftermath of Davidson's killing shows leading Republicans Eddie Copeland and Brian Gillen at the scene. Then at his funeral Bobby Storey and Spike Murray attend. Press speculation pointed the finger of blame at Kevin McGuigan. Noel Doran from the Irish News comments. The PSNI interviewed McGuigan and warned him that he was under threat. On 12/8/15 he was shot dead. The PSNI named former PIRA members and DAAD as suspects. Raymond McCord met DAAD this year. He comments on the meeting. He says McGuigan wasn't on their hit list but that they did issue a warning against his killer in the press. Then Chief Constable George Hamilton is shown answering Darragh McIntyre's questions about the killing is shown, then Brian Feeney commentates on PIRA volunteers position currently. Film clip of Gerry Adams denial of PIRA involvement. Then Alex Maskey's views. Anthony McIntyre says he believes that Kevin McGuigan was killed by the PIRA. Then D McIntyre asks the DUP's Gregory Campbell why he's surprised to find out that PIRA still exists. two weeks later the UUP has left the Executive and the DUP have halted Executive meetings. G Campbell is questioned about PIRA's continued existence. A McIntyre says the PIRA exist today as a totally different organization. Speculation on the existence of an army council by D McIntyre, and did the leadership know this attack was going to happen and did nothing to stop it?
Wed 9th Sep 2015
News says that Stormont is less than 24 hours from collapse after a day of dramatic developments. It began with the PSNI arrest this morning of 3 leading Republicans in connection with the Kevin McGuigan murder. That sparked Peter Robinson- to say that DUP ministers would start resigning from tomorrow, unless NI Secretary T Villiers suspends Stormont. Film report from outside Antrim PSNI station. The three Republicans are Eddie Copeland, Bobby Storey and Brian Gillen. She describes how the day's events unfolded, with a film clip of Peter Robinson's demand for a suspension of Stormont. Then M McGuinness says that the British government would be making a grave mistake by suspending Stormont. Then a profile of each of the three Republicans. Then a film clip of former Secretary of State Peter Mandelson's suspension of Stormont over decommissioning. Then comments of UUP's Mike Nesbitt on PIRA. Then TUV's Jim Allister's views, followed by S O'Neill's analysis. Then political correspondent Tracy Magee's analysis of what happens next at Stormont, with David Cameron's comments in the Commons. Then in the studio commentators Alex Kane and Brian Feeney discuss what is likely to happen tomorrow and the current UUP & DUP electioneering on the issue and the possibility of an election on this current issue, and the lack of trust between Sinn Fein and the DUP. Then Brian Feeney says that the Chief Constable trusts Sinn Fein more than the DUP do but there is no need for the DUP to walk away from the institutions. A Westminster committee has been told by SEFF's Kenny Donaldson that the HET wanted to question Martin McGuinness about the 1987 Enniskillen poppy day bombing but the NIO prevented them from doing so. A Sinn Fein statement rejected this as hearsay.
Thu 10th Sep 2015
The Stormont Executive is on the brink as the DUP's Peter Robinson stands aside as First Minister with other DUP ministers also resigning except for Arlene Foster as Finance Minister as the NI Secretary T Villiers refused to suspend Stormont over the Kevin McGuigan murder. Film report begins with the SDLP's Alasdair McDonnell's statement that he opposes any suspension as a non-solution. Then M McGuinness comments. Then at 5pm Peter Robinson announces that he is leaving Arlene Foster in place as acting First Minister to stop Nationalits/Republicans from taking financial decisions. Then NI Secretary T Villiers explains why she is opposed to suspending Stormont. Then from Derry RTE's Tommy Gorman gives his analysis of events. He also confirms that all 3 Republicans arrested have been released. Then he is joined by Martin McGuinness who gives his reaction to the men's release and the chance of the upcoming talks being successful. He calls the Davidson/McGuigan killers 'low-life criminals'.
BBC UK
Headlines, the coverage of today's events at Stormont in NI and the DUP resignations following no adjournment or suspension of the Executive. Film report from Chris Butler includes Peter Robinson's announcement on resignations with Arlene Foster staying in place. Then coverage of the reasons behind the arrest of three leading Republicans and their release tonight, followed by comments from Sinn Fein's Gerry Adams and reaction from NI Secretary T Villiers, then vox pop of the public, then Chris Butler's analysis of the situation.
At Stormont the DUP's Peter Robinson steps aside & Arlene Foster takes over. NI Secretary T Villiers says there will be no suspension. Tonight all 3 arrested leading Republicans were released. Summary of upcoming reports which then begin with Marc Mallett at Stormont who begins with a verbal summary of today's events then Jane Loughrey on the days political twists and turns, beginning with Peter Robinson's announcement that he is stepping aside and Arlene Foster is taking over because the business committee voted not to suspend the Assembly. Arlene Foster is to stay to stop Nationalists/Republicans taking financial decisions. T Villiers refuses suspension and proposes talks. Alasdair McDonnell opposes suspension and explains why. Then Sinn Fein's M McGuinness and G Adams comment, followed by the UUP's Mike Nesbitt who wants a suspension. Alliance's David Ford criticized the UUP & SDLP. Back in the studio Ken Reid gives his analysis of the day's events highlighting the NIO refusal of suspension and the DUP position with resignations and Sinn Fein's reaction and the pressures on the SDLP over adjournment. Next report is from S O'Neill at PSNI HQ reports on the 3 Republicans who were released unconditionally. Bobby Storey's solicitor, John Finucane, says that his client is planning legal action against the PSNI as he was given no evidence for his arrest and there are concerns around the timing of the arrest. Then Gerry Adams remarks on policing bringing the murder to the gates of Stormont. Then S O'Neill on where the PSNI enquiry goes now with no one having been charged. Then back at Stormont the DUP's outgoing Health minister Simon Hamilton is interviewed by Marc Mallett and depends the DUP decision to resign its ministers. He said that it couldn't be 'business as usual' after the Kevin McGuigan murder. He denies that the DUP policy is a fudge and says that Arlene Foster is remaining in place to stop Sinn Fein or the SDLP 'going renegade'. He doesn't say whether the DUP will attend the NI Secretary's talks that begin on Monday. S Hamilton says suspension will allow time to deal with the issue of paramilitaries linked to political parties in government. He denies that the DUP policy is a dereliction of duty by ignoring health etc. Then back in the studio Paul Clark discusses the situation with R Swann (UUP), Claire Hanna (SDLP) and S Farry (Alliance). They are asked whether they will attend the NI Secretary's talks on Monday. The UUP wants to see the agenda first. C Hanna explains why the SDLP didn't vote for an adjournment today. She is cross examined on the internal party discussion on this issue. Then S Farry says that devolution is unravelling. The vacuum can't last forever. He talks about hard and soft language and debates with Claire Hanna over the adjournment issue. Then out in the streets a vox pop of people in a Belfast bar give their opinion on the current crisis. Then a vox pop of people in Derry including Sinead McLaughlin form the Chamber of Commerce's views. And then the views of Linda Watson, a community worker in a Loyalist area. Then it's back to Stormont where Marc Mallet talks to journalists Tracey Magee and Brian Rowan about what happens next and their analysis of what Simon Hamilton said about the DUP needed 'time and space', and also what needs to be done in terms of welfare reform. They also discuss the 2002 situation where security was top of the agenda as the DUP want it to be now. Brian Rowan gives his views on what is likely on the security issue (probably another monitoring report). Then Paul Clark back in the studio with commentators Alex Kane and Brian Feeney who discuss what is likely to happen in the NI Secretary's talks on Monday and who will attend and what they will want, and is there any enthusiasm for the talks and where did the current situation begin to unravel. Alex Kane says the St Andrews Agreement in 2007 and explains why. Both point out that there is an election due in May and electioneering has begun within the Unionist parties. The next report from Judith Hill looks back at the history of suspensions at Stormont since 1998, including the 2002 'spy ring' allegations against Sinn Fein, beginning with the current crisis, the Xmas 2013 Haas talks and the Stormont House Agreement in 2014, followed by another quick vox pop of people at Stormont. Then in the studio Gerry Kelly gives Sinn Fein's reaction to Peter Robinson's remarks about preventing Nationalists/Republicans from making financial decisions. The issue of trust is raised. He says that he is disappointed by Peter Robinson's remarks. He also comments on the timing of the arrest of the 3 Republicans and says that he has questions for the police about that. He is asked about SF/DUP contacts and says that Martin McGuiness regularly talks to Peter Robinson, but adds that all the parties need to be involved in working the issues out and says that these are not new issues. He says that the DUP need to respect Sinn Fein's mandate, even if they don't respect him. He says that it is a challenging situation but that Sinn Fein is in resolution mood. He says that Unionists should stop blaming Sinn Fein for everything. He is also concerned that dissident Republicans and Loyalists may fill the vacuum and says that he is up for Monday's talks. Then at Stormont Tracey Magee speculates as to whether the DUP will attend the talks.
Presented by Mark Carruthers the programme reviews today's events and the DUP political resignations over the PIRA links to Sinn Fein and the PSNI Chief Constable's allegations over the K McGuigan murder and he asks the question 'will the political institutions be brought to the brink of collapse?' After his introduction he interviews acting First Minister and Finance Minister Arlene Foster from the DUP on their wider plan and the reasoning behind 4 DUP ministers resigning. The purpose is to achieve a suspension or adjournment in order to create time and space for focused talks on the PIRA's existence. She says that her ideal situation would be for SF to be thrown out of the Executive. The reason that she has remained in place is not keep SF in government but rather to stop 'rogue' SF or 'renegade' SDLP ministers taking decisions that would harm NI. She says that her role now is as a gatekeeper to protect NI from 'rogue' SF/SDLP ministers. She uses that phrase twice. She then reveals that the DUP may re-nominate its ministers within 7 days depending on the British government's response. She wants the British government to respond to the DUP's demands. She is asked for her reaction to the PSNI releasing SF's Northern Chairman Bobby Storey tonight. She replies that that doesn't remove the fact that the PIRA were involved in the murder of K McGuigan. She says that confidence in devolution is ebbing away and that the PSNI do not just arrest people 'willy-nilly'. She wants paramilitary activity dealt with once and for all. She reminds Mark Carruthers that she has suffered at the hands of the PIRA. She says that the DUP have yet to decide about attending Monday's talks with the NI Secretary of State T Villiers. Next a film report covers T Villiers' reaction to the resignations at Stormont today. She says the solution is to be found, as in previous crises, in all-party talks. She admits that the Executive's working relationship has broken down . Then in the studio M Nesbitt (UUP), Gerry Kelly (SF), Alban Magennis (SDLP) and the Alliance's D Ford debate today's DUP resignations and the future of the Executive. He calls Arlene Foster's comments on protecting the institutions from SF & SDLP ministers a very bigoted view. G Kelly says that she has shown a throwback attitude to nationalists/republicans. Then Mike Nesbitt denies that the crisis is all about an inter-unionist cat fight. He says that the Executive is broken. He wants SF to admit that the PIRA still exists as the Ch Con has stated. G Kelly disagrees with M Nesbitt's assessment and questions his credibility and says that he is electioneering. Both men argue about each other's credibility. Then Then the SDLP's A Magennis explains why they won't support the DUP's adjournment calls. Then D Ford & A Magennis discuss who will nominate for the vacant DUP positions if this happens. Then on Monday's NI Secretary talks Mike Nesbitt says that he wants PIRA at the top of the agenda. If it is he will attend the talks. He is questioned on this position by Gerry Kelly. Then Gerry Kelly asks him if he will go if Irish Minister Charlie Flanagan is there. He says no. A Magennis attacks the other parties stance. Next, former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern is interviewed by M Carruthers in a Dublin hotel and gives his view on the latest crisis. He says that the PIRA that existed for years and had Active Service Units, an Army Council, Intelligence, Finance & Engineering units have gone away and that the agreement was that the ASUs would do nothing to undermine the GFA. He says that that is the issue now. He accepts that what was agreed on was nothing more than an 'Old Boy's Network'. He comments on Sinn Fein denials that the PIRA still exists, and he understands unionists' fears that the PIRA still exists. He then comments on Mike Nesbitt going into opposition mode, and on Enda Kenny's role today on the adjournment debate and the possibility of the British government introducing a suspension. He worries about 'sinister elements' filling the vacuum if Stormont collapses. Then in the studio M Devenport, Prof D Heenan and Prof R Wilford discuss the Arlene Foster interview. A Foster's 'renegades' remark is discussed. M Nesbitt's move is criticised. They ask can the institutions survive after 7 days and what exactly do the DUP want the British government to do. (Thurs)
Fri 11th Sep 2015
British Prime Minister David Cameron has called on NI politicians to 'dig deep' to save devolution here. Film report begins with a review of what ministers are left around the Executive table following yesterday's DUP resignations. A table shows who controls the 13 ministries and two junior ministries before 1 UUP and 4 DUP ministers resigned. S Walker comments on these events and D Cameron's comments today against any suspension, with DUP's P Robinson's comments and UUP M Nesbitt on the re-nomination process. Then SF's M McGuinness says that he is out to find solutions. Meanwhile acting First Minister A Foster and Peter Robinson's reference to nationalists and republicans as harming northern Ireland caused a reaction from SF's Gerry Kelly and Irish News' Noel Doran. (Fri 6.30pm)
24 hours after standing down his ministers the DUP's Peter Robinson reveals that their plan is to re-nominate their ministers and then resign again after 7 days and repeat this cycle. Film report from Stormont from S O'Neill reviews the DUP resignations yesterday, then covers P Robinson's announcement today to have a cycle strategy to his resignation plans and that this amounts to a de facto adjournment of the assembly. Then in his reaction SF's M McGuinness calls the move shambolic, but in the madness he will find a method to make the talks work. Then film clip of D Cameron's comments from London on the situation, then UUP's Mike Nesbitt's comments on Monday's talks. The SDLP's Claire Hanna and Alliance's Stephen Farry's comments. Then, in an earlier interview, T Magee interviews P Robinson and begins by asking him why he didn't resign. He says it is a deliberate strategy to block institutions and thereby suspending the Assembly but he won't say if he will re-nominate ministers but does say that he won't be handing seats over to SF and the SDLP. T Magee calls it 'hokey cokey' politics. Robinson replies that he can't ignore murder like nothing has happened and that these matters need to be resolved. He criticises the UUP for voting with SF to block an adjournment. He claims that they are upholding their mandate from the electorate. Regarding Monday's talks he wants more clarity from the government and action more than words. Then M Mallet interviews NI Secretary T Villiers in London. She calls it a difficult situation and a serious political crisis, one of many over 20 years. She defends her position on no adjournment. She shares anxiety over paramilitaries with the parties and is looking at ways to move NI ahead and away from Paramilitarism. Then in the studio Tracy Magee gives her analysis of the DUP's plans and what is going to happen at the talks on Monday and will the DUP attend.
Headlines: then at the historical abuse inquiry the PIRA's murder of 15 year old Bernard Taggart, who they took from St Patrick's Training home in West Belfast in Nov 73 was described as the most horrific case before the HAI. It was also revealed the Catholic run home failed to report his and his twin's abduction, film report on police review of the case, then another brother, John Taggart of the Ballymurphy massacre families, comments; followed by solicitor Padraig O'Muirighs views. The funeral has taken place of Kevin McKee, disappeared 43 years, film report. (10.30pm Mon)
Sun 13th Sep 2015
At a press conference SF's Northern Chairman Bobby Storey gives a talk on his detention by the PSNI over the Kevin McGuigan murder. He also says that the PIRA has gone and that it isn't coming back. Film report from Chris Page on no police evidence to warrant his arrest. Then the DUP's Simon Hamilton says that Bobby Storey's words don't re-assure them and that they believe the Chief Constable rather than Bobby Storey or anyone in SF. In Moy, Co Tyrone, a GAA clubhouse has been damaged in an arson attack. Film report with Peter McKearney's views.
Mon 14th Sep 2015
The DUP's Peter Robinson has pushed the British government to take action on PIRA activity before it commits to entering talks. Delegations from the 5 main parties took turns to meet the NI Secretary T Villiers today. She will make a statement to Westminster tomorrow but SF have warned her not to agree to unionist demands before round-table talks. Film report and analysis from Mark Devenport but firstly Gareth Gordons film report. Gareth Gordons Film Report covers yesterday's press conference by the released Bobby Storey who denies that PIRA exists. Then in Stormont, resignations of DUP ministers is announced by the speaker, then indep/MLA Claire Sugden's reaction. Outside NIO office DUP's P. Robinson wouldn't tell the press what demands he had made of NI Sec. T. Villiers, then SF's Martin McGuinness said the talks should have no pre-conditions, and if talks fail or don't take place, the next step should be an election. The UUP's M. Nesbitt said SF's denial the PIRA still existed was a problem for them, then M Devenport's analysis of what has to happen before all-party talks can begin. In England the election of the new labour leader, Jeremy Corbin has been welcomed by SF as a friend of Ireland, while Labour's new shadow chancellor John McDonnell once praised the PIRA saying they should be honoured. Film report from M. Simpson with film if J. Corbyn speaking on N. Ireland before he met SF in the 1980s. Then speaking in Belfast he called for ban on plastic bullets, SF's Gerry Adams calls him a peacemaker, the clip from 2003 shows J. McDonnell's praise of republicans end PIRA, Vernon Coaker is the new shadow NI sec. Then Ian Paisley Jnr fears labour party policy. In West Belfast, the Funeral has taken place of one of the disappeared Kevin McKee who was missing for 43 years. Film report, his body was found in Co. Meath in June with S. Wright
Headlines: The DUP has expressed disappointment with NI Sec. T. Villers commons statement, calling it a "holding statement." Film report with political editor M. Davenport's analysis of T Villiers statement on PIRA activity. She mentions consideration of re-establishing an International Monitoring Commission (IMC) then political reaction. A. Foster DUP calls it disappointing, the SF's Conor Murphy's views, he wants immediate beginning of all-party talks. M. Davenport the refers to a former NI sec. Peter Hain's criticisms of the PSNI arrest of SF's B Storey, shown in tonight's spotlight. (see next DVD D10980) Film clip shown. The UUP has announced that Andy Allen, an Afghan campaign injured veteran will replace its MLA in East Belfast Michael Copeland who is stepping down due to ill health. Film report with Andy Allen interview Stormont's first Wheelchair user as an MLA. In West Belfast Poleglass, a women was stabbed and seriously injured, film report with SF's Jenny McCann's reaction. Disappeared victim Seamus Wright was buried today, he was 25 in 1972 when PIRA murdered him and buried him in Co. Meath. Film report on his St. Agnes funeral. In London a British Army regiment is to be the first British Army unit to take part in a GAA competition. (6.30pm Tues)
Tue 15th Sep 2015
Presented by Noel Thompson the programme begins with an update on the current situation at Stormont and the current NI Secretary T Villiers statement to the Commons about a 'very grave' situation. However this is not the first NI crisis 4 years of suspension ended in 2006 with the St Andrews Agreement. The NI Secretary then was Labour's Peter Hain. In an interview with Noel Thompson he outlines his view on why he thinks that this crisis could have been avoided. Firstly he blames No 10 and David Cameron for not being involved as much as when Labour were in government. He says that the different parties are playing out their own internal party political interests at the expense of the peace process and the Executive. Unionists are competing each other for supremacy and Sinn Fein seem more interested in growing its support in the Republic of Ireland than in maintaining the NI government. He says that a process of political neglect has set in. He criticizes the Kevin McGuigan killing and then goes on to elaborate on why he disagrees with the UUP's stance. He also has doubts about how the Chief Constable George Hamilton has handled events as compared to how Hugh Orde might have dealt with arresting Sinn Fein's Northern Chairperson Bobby Storey then releasing him. He also calls last year's arrest of Gerry Adams, who he says was detained without reason, clumsy & ham-fisted. He says that the PSNI's job is not to be making public statements it is catching criminals. Noel Thompson asks him his view on the Chief Constable blaming the IRA and did he think that he should have remained silent? On paramilitarism he says that the chief Constable has stated that he does not believe that the IRA leadership sanctioned the murder. On Unionist demands for the Independent Monitoring Commission (IMC) he says that this would be fine if it restores Unionist confidence. On Jeremy Corbyn & John McDonnell's election to the Labour leadership he says Unionists do not need to worry. He praises Vernon Coaker, the shadow NI Secretary for his non-partisan approach, as opposed to T Villiers who he says has adopted a partisan approach when he believes she should be neutral. He also says that direct rule should not be brought back under any circumstances. Next Noel Thompson introduces a film report from Jenny O'Leary on possible routes back to Stormont stability. Professor Cathy Gormley Heenan says that this is the closest that we have come to the collapse of Stormont. She talks about how issues have escalated over recent years form flags/parades to wider issues and now the existence of the PIRA. The Chief Constable is quoted on their existence and ten Bobby Storey's views on the PIRA. Commentator Chris Donnelly says that there needs to be an external assessment of the current position of the PIRA and he thinks that this will happen but there is also the problem of welfare reform to be dealt with. The Newsletter's Sam McBride comments on this. Chris Donnelly says that Sinn Fein won't want to hand power back to the British government on the welfare issue. The commentators then give their views on what the public think about the current situation in NI, then a vox pop of QUB students. The politicians need to find a win/win solution for everyone. The commentators then give their views on what this might be. Back in the studio Noel Thompson discusses the issues with G Campbell, G Kelly, A McDonnell, S Farry and D Kennedy. His first question to G Campbell (DUP) is about his parties pre-conditions for the talks process. He calls it a base for talks to ensure that they are successful. The UUP's Danny Kennedy is pushed on his demands for the talks but won't identify his preconditions yet. Sinn Fein's Gerry Kelly says he is willing to enter talks without pre-conditions and scorns the Unionists' positions. He says that Sinn Fein supports policing. On the IMC idea he says that they would just go to the PSNI/Gardai for information and he says that this shows that Unionist do not trust the police. Danny Kennedy (UUP) accuses Sinn Fein of denial about the existence of the PIRA. Then A McDonnell (SDLP) defends his idea of getting US involvement in the talks. He also Defends the SDLP position of not calling for an adjournment of Stormont. Then S Farry (Alliance) rejects preconditions and says that he wants a revamped IMC and explains why. He says that he believes that the current model of devolution is broken. He argues the pros and cons of having an election with Noel Thompson. He says it appears that Unionists simply do not want to share power with Nationalists. D Kennedy & G Campbell criticize him, saying that the problem is a recent murder by PIRA. On G Kelly's denials that the PIRA exists he quotes the PSNI view. G Kelly then quotes Sinn Fein's mandate but D Kennedy says that it is about parties supporting the rule of law. He and G Kelly argue back and forth very loudly about Sinn Fein's support for law. A McDonnell (SDLP) refers to Arlene Foster's 'rogues and renegades' remarks about nationalists as a sign the Unionists have moved away from partnership. G Campbell calls that a red herring. S Farry criticizes the nationalist parties over the welfare reform issue. He clashes with A McDonnell on this issue. Then G Campbell on the election issue and he says that the DUP has the goodwill for talks, S Farry doubts that good will exists. All the politicians comments on the talks problems issue. Then Noel Thompson crosses to a panel of commentators for their opinion on the debate (Dearbhail McDonald, Alex Kane & Mark Devenport). All three are critical and say that it is the attitude of the 5 main parties that is not fit for purpose. Mark Devenport says that it feels like the clock had been turned back to the days where we needed talks about talks. He feels that we are in a lose/lose spiral. They discuss the IMC option and party preconditions. D McDonald outlines Dublin's position on the current situation and Sinn Fein being damaged in Eire and they commentate on alternatives for if the talks fail and public anger.
Wed 16th Sep 2015
Headlines then at Westminster, report from committee hearing about getting compensation from the current Libyan government for victims of the semtex explosive Gadaffi supplied to the PIRA. Present laws can;t seize Libyan assets or force their government to pay compensation. Film report reviews some explosions here that indep/unionist MP Sylvia Hermon's comments, at Stormont DUP's P. Robinson says some progress was made today in his talks with the NI sec. T. Villers, she held one to one meetings with the 5 parties today. Also today the DUP ministers were re-designated, then resigned again. Film report with Ken Reid's analysis of the current situation in the NI sec's talks, with P. Robinson's comments. The SF's M. McGuinness' reaction against a new monitoring commission. In commons today DUP's N. Dodds attacked the pro-republican views of shadow chancellor John McDonnell, and British PM D. Cameron agreed with N. Dodds and mentions PIRA killings of Tory MP's. (10.30pm Wed)
An exclusive interview with Febbie Clawson (16) who was crushed by a car driven at a nationalist crowd in Ardoyne on 13th July 2015 by an orange man John Aughey. Film clips shown during the interview, and she gives details of her injuries. Her mother, Marie Clawson, recalls her reaction. Febbie praises the support of those paramedics and PSNI and civilians and family. Then solicitor Michael Brentnall on the legal proceedings. At Stormont SF's M. McGuinness says the 5 main parties here are willing to help refugees from Syria. First a film report from Greece on the Syrian refugees arriving there, following a charity group handing out food. Back in NI, Sarah Clarke reports on local people who are willing to welcome refugees into their own homes, like Eileen Boys and businessman Bill Wolsley. Then SF's M. McGuinness remarks DUP health minister Simon Hamilton is criticised for resigning, then coming back and resigning again. Film report with SF and SDLP comments on an interview Simon Hamilton denies he is playing politics with health issues. Seven British soldiers who opens fire on Bloody Sunday are about to be interviewed under caution by the PSNI, Two years after their murder enquiry opened. Film report from Mark McFadden with reaction of John Kelly of the Bloody Sunday families. The PSNI enquiry will be handed over to the Historical Investigations Unit. In East Belfast a regeneration plan has begun to replace loyalist murals with community based art work. Film report with charter NI's Gareth Beacom's views, then resident David Blacks comments, then blaze FxS Glenn Black. (10.30pm Thurs)
Sat 19th Sep 2015
Stormont talks are to begin on Monday after the British government announces that it is setting up a 3 person body to review current paramilitary organisations. Film on the new development from Stephen Walker begins with NI Secretary T Villiers statement, then the DUP's Peter Robinson welcomes the Secretary's move. Then Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness gives his reaction. Then the UUP's Mike Nesbitt welcomes the move as positive. The SDLP call it a 'pop-up' assessment and the Alliance welcome it. Then Mark Devenport gives his assessment of next week's talks and the obstacles that exist within the Unionist parties and the welfare reform issue. In Ballymurphy the police have found semtex explosives and two guns. Two men were arrested. Unionist have welcomed an apology from Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell (Labour) over remarks made in a 2003 Newsnight interview that the IRA should be honoured but they say that he should have gone further. Film report of J McDonnell's explanation of his comments, the J Donaldson (DUP) comments. In Co Cork Thomas Ceant, executed for his role in the 1916 Easter Rising, today received a state funeral. Film report on the 'forgotten patriot' with Sergeant Gerry Whyte of the Irish Army's comments, then UUP's Tom Elliott's angry reaction the Irish PM Enda Kenny's graveside oration.
The DUP's Peter Robinson has spent the night in hospital after suffering a reaction to his new medicine following his heart attack in May. Film report with J Donaldson's comments then Mark Devenport's comments on the political analysis on the political impact of Robinson's illness. The PSNI have arrested three more people after two guns and semtex were found at the weekend in Ballymurphy. A man was also arrested after a stabbing incident on the Shankill Road.
Mon 21st Sep 2015
Then the 5 main Stormont parties all turned up today for talks with the British & Irish governments. Film report begins with Gareth Gordon reporting on the first row as Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness told the other parties to either 'put up or shut up' over reports linking Sinn Fein to criminality. Then the UUP's Mike Nesbitt's reaction. In the chamber Peter Robinson nominated Michelle McIlveen as minister to replace Danny Kennedy as the UUP has left the Executive. He later commented on his hospitalization. Then David Ford (Alliance) & Alasdair McDonnell (SDLP) comment. Then Mark Devenport comments on the talks and the tetchy exchanges and the new British government panel to assess paramilitarism. The PSNI are investigating the murder of two Catholics following new information given on the Boston College tapes by Loyalist paramilitaries. Film report on the murders of John Devine (37) at his Fallswater Street home in July 1989 and John Joseph O'Hara, a taxi driver shot dead in Dunluce Avenue in April 1991. The Detective Inspector Neil McGuinness comments. Then an analysis of the Boston College scheme and the legal challenges following it. At a north Belfast troubles 'flashpoint' people have gathered on both sides to mark World Peace Day. Film report form Mark Simpson on the Limestone Road with community workers Kate Clarke and Ciaran Shannon, then Anthony Kerr of the Newington Housing Association.
Burning the British Embassy (1972)
In Irish with English subtitles, this programme tells the story of the reaction to the killing of 13 civilians at a civil rights march in Derry in January 1972 known as Bloody Sunday. It uses black and white film clips and newspaper cuttings to show the anger felt in Ireland which resulted in the burning of the British Embassy in Dublin. After opening titles a BBC news report from 3/2/1972 about the burnt out embassy is shown with journalists comments and then British Ambassador John Beck comments on a 'rough patch' in British/Irish relations. The documents then profiles the events of Bloody Sunday showing newspaper headlines. Then John O'Brien, a Garda officer, recalls the news headlines from 1972. Then Gearoid Denvir recalls his father crying as he watched the news. Film shown of Derry. Then Áine ní Chiaran, a journalist, remembers Fr Edward Daly with his white hankie. Then Alan Titley recalls his horror. News clip shown from 30/1/1972 showing British General Robert Ford saying that his troops were fired on and fired 3 rounds back. Then Dr Niall O'Doherty comments on the 'hawks' and 'doves' within the British army chiefs that day. Then film clip of Irish PM Jack Lynch's TV broadcast after Bloody Sunday accusing the British army of firing on unarmed civilians. Then the Irish press is profiled as the anti-British mood grew. Protest marches across Ireland are shown. Paul Shannon recalls, then former Senator David Norris. On the Tuesday a march went to the British Embassy (film clip shown). 220 Garda were sent to protect the embassy. One of the Guards, M O'Cosgharolha, recalls his objective that day. With no protective equipment 200 guards were surrounded by thousands of people. Film clip shown. Garda recalls rocks and petrol bombs being thrown. 3 men plant a bomb at the embassy. Film clip shown of it exploding and the embassy on fire. Jack Lynch calls for a day of mourning on the day of Bloody Sunday funerals. Film clip shown of funerals in Derry and De Valera at mass in Dublin. Dr N O'Doherty comments on the national mood. Protests and marches continue, even outside the damaged embassy. David Norris recalls the embassy being attacked again. Film clip shown of men climbing on the building and setting it on fire. By the 3rd night the entire building was up in flames. Eyewitness Gearoid Denvir comments, then fireman Paul Shannon explains what they were faced with. Crowd disperses as the building becomes an inferno. Garda John O'Brien comments on those responsible and speculation as to whether the Irish Army should have been sent. Journalist A ní Chairan names the ministers responsible for decision-making and the dangers of using the army. The Garda officers discuss what should have been done. Then protest songs of those weeks were profiled. In February 1972 even sport was affected by Bloody Sunday with the Ireland/England rugby match going ahead at Twickenham but Scotland & Wales refusing to play in Dublin. In 2002 the national archive released further details on Bloody Sunday. With John Hume's comments. The programme then reviews the improved relations today between Britain & Ireland. Then final remarks from those present at the burning of the embassy and its effect on them.
Tue 22nd Sep 2015
NI Secretary T Villiers has named two lawyers and a former civil servant as the new monitoring panel on paramilitaries. They are the Liberal Democrat Lord Carlisle, QC Stephen Shaw and Rosalee Flanagan. Film report with profiles of the three appointees from Gareth Gordon with Unionists favourable reaction and Arlene Foster's comments. Then TUV's Jim Allister's views, then analysis from Mark Devenport of the challenges facing the panel and Sinn Fein's Stormont challenge to the DUP's 'revolving door' policy regarding health minister Simon Hamilton. Tomorrow the Finance committee will hear evidence from Jamie Bryson and Martin McGuinness on the NAMA case. Also he reports on the on-going all party talks. In courts Kevin Nolan (45) has been charged with explosives offences relating to the Ballymurphy finds.
Wed 23rd Sep 2015
Stormont's NAMA inquiry hears Loyalist Jamie Bryson claim that Peter Robinson was to benefit financially from the NAMA deal. Film report on the hearing and Bryson's comments with profiles of the people that he names. Peter Robinson denies the allegations and calls it a pantomime. Earlier Martin McGuinness gave his evidence where he said that he was kept in the dark by the DUP about NAMA bidders. Film reports on his comments and questions from the DUP's Jim Wells. Then Business Editor John Campbell's analysis of Jamie Bryson's evidence and his sources. Then M Devenport on how this adds to the current political crisis, and its effect on the Robinson/McGuinness relationship. New inquests are going to be held into the 8 PIRA volunteers and 1 civilian killed by the SAS in 1987. Film report with relative Mairead Kelly's reaction.
Irish playwright Brian Friel is buried in Co Donegal. Film report from Glenties with comments from Martin McGuinness. At the Tory party conference NI Secretary T Villiers has warned the 5 main local parties that they can't be sat her in talks until Christmas and that agreement is needed soon. Film report from S Walker in Manchester. In Derry a woman escaped injury in a sectarian attack when a pipe bomb exploded on her windowsill. Film report with householder's comments.
Mon 5th Oct 2015
At the Tory conference Prime Minister David Cameron says that money will not solve NI's problems. Film report with Ken Reid interviewing David Cameron. He wants the welfare issue sorted, elements of the Stormont House Agreement (SHA) sorted and an inquiry into paramilitarism. He praises NI Secretary T Villiers for efforts in trying to bring the parties together. He believes NI will need courage. He doesn't want to intervene and restore direct rule. He believes devolution is best for NI. On dealing with the past he says that the agreed some £2 billion for the SHA, and a large amount of that money is for dealing with the past and the British government will bring forward the necessary legislation. He accepts that there are troubles-related mental health challenges and defends the resources the British government has allocated for health issues in NI. In NI politicians can come to an agreement he says that a deal for corporation tax is still on the table as part of the SHA. He says he wants a regeneration of NI's private sector but this all depends on NI having a budget. Then Ken Reid gives his analysis of David Cameron's comments. Cameron is particularly strong on the welfare reform issue but Ken Reid also highlights his comments on a paramilitary inquiry. In Derry it has been revealed that yesterday's pipe bomb attack was at the home of a transgender woman. Film report with PSNI Superintendent Mark McKeown's comments on the motive but the DUP's Drew Thompson rejects the view that it was a hate crime. Then neighbor Brian Sutherland's comments. In Stormont Martin McGuinness says that the first group of Syrian refugees are expected to arrive by December. Film report says 350 will be admitted each year.
Real Lives Reunited
Part 2: Firemen and Riverdance.
The second programme in this series begins with the stories of the Belfast firemen on duty on Bloody Friday. The young recruits never got to have a pass-out ceremony because of Bloody Friday. They all meet again 40 years later and finally get the recognition that they missed out on. Global news headlines for 1972 shown, including 9 dead on Bloody Friday bombings on July 21st 1972. Fire Officer Jimmy Montgomery (1970-1998) recalls getting ready for the passing out ceremony. Old film clip shown. Then Stanley Spray, FO 1970-1992, recalls the David Page 1970-1992. They joined as junior firemen aged 16 years of age. Then film of bomb explosions on that day. The PIRA exploded 22 bombs across Belfast within minutes on that day. Stanley Spray recalls being sent to the Oxford Street blast and said that had walked into hell. He recalls the scene. Bits of bodies being put into bags, then Jimmy Montgomery recalls the scene. Film clip shown. S Spray recalls a badly injured man who was in shock and was worrying that he had missed his bus. He has never forgotten his question 'what time is it?' In 1972 there was no debriefing or counselling#. The recruits clocked off and went home. Stanley recalls sitting in his car crying. Jimmy Montgomery went to the pub but couldn't take a drink. They never got a pass-out ceremony. They were posted to 3 separate fire stations and began their careers. Today the programme re-unites them. All three comment on their expectations. They examine newspaper cuttings about Bloody Friday and discuss that day and how they coped with being throw in at the deep end as new recruits. They talk about the things that they saw. They still can't believe that they never got a passing out ceremony after two years training. Later on in the programme they get their ceremony. Now the programme switches to its second topic tonight. April 30th 1994. Other global/UK stories that made the headlines are shown. Then, during the Eurovision Song Contest in Dublin at the break a new theatrical act is born. Irish dancing's 'Riverdance'. Michael Flatley and Jean Butler's roles are profiled. One of the original dance troupe, Emer O'Grady Cunningham recalls auditioning, as does Joan Rafter and Dara O'Shea. Then they describe the big night at the Eurovision interval. Film clip shown of incredible performance. Dancer Brendan de Gallai recalls recalls his reaction and they all describe the applause and the reaction. Within months Riverdance became a full-length show and toured the world. For the dancers nothing would ever by the same again. Today, after 20 years the 4 dancers meet up again in a Dublin pub. They recall the show and its success, then they go to a dance studio to recreate the dance. The programme then switches back to the three firemen on Bloody Friday story. David Coleman joins the other three recruits and unknown to them the fire chiefs have arrange for them the passing out ceremony that they never had. The day begins by watching today's students in training. Then they talk about the horrors of Bloody Friday and dealing with their emotions even to this day. BBC news from February 1993 shows a 7 year old child being killed. A 2 year old and their mother die in a fire. At the time Stanley Spray comments on the news. David Page & J Montgomery say there was no counselling and that their memories are sealed. Then film of their surprise certificate ceremony. Each of the men give their reaction and their views on their careers and friendships.
Tue 6th Oct 2015
At Stormont DUP Minister J Bell returns to work for one day as part of their in/out policy of rotating ministers. The UUP says that rotating ministers should have their pay docked. Film report then Mark Devenport looks at the in/out policy and how often each minister has resigned and been re-appointed. J Bell defends their actions. Then UUP's Robin Swann on pay cuts. Ni Secretary T Villiers said no progress was made this morning on the welfare reform issue. Film report from the Tory Party conference where the UUP's Mike Nesbitt says that he thinks the DUP & Sinn Fein will cobble together a bad deal. Then Sinn Fein's Pat Doherty says that he is not worried about British government deadlines. Then NIO minister Ben Wallace's views. The Equality Commission has found evidence of educational underachievement among boys, particularly Protestant working class boys. Film report states that issue was initially raised in 2007 and 2011 by Dawn Purvis in 2014 by the CRC and again in 2015 by the PUP. The Chief Commissioner Dr Michael Wardlow gives his views. In 201220% of Protestant working class boys achieved 5 GCSEs grades A*-C. The NI average was 62%. Malone College pupils comment. The PSNI has warned of the threat from dissident Republicans in the north-west area. Film report highlights recent attacks with 15 bomb attacks and 15 gun attacks. PSNI Superintendent Mark McEwan comments. Ian Paisley Snr's 50,000 book collection has gone on display in east Belfast. Eileen Paisley comments and talks about Ian's death and sympathy from Martin McGuinness and her views on the Stormont situation.
Bás Na Saoirse (Death or Liberty)
In Irish with English subtitles this documentary is about the ideals of Irish patriots who challenged British rule in Ireland and their exile to Australia, referred to as the prison without walls. The programme begins in docu-drama style about unrest in Ireland in the 1790s. In the 80 years after that over 3000 prisoners were exiled to Australia. Other political prisoners from America, England, Scotland and Wales were also sent, but their stories once they were in Australia are not well known. In Hobart, Tasmania Billy Bragg, Mick Thomas and Lisa O'Neill put on a concert to commemorate how these exiles inspired the creation of a modern democracy decades before Britain did. The programme uses clips from this concert throughout. The programme then profiles the global political upheavals that were going on in the 1790s. In America the British have been kicked out and in France the King has been executed and a Republic declared. The British have seized the east coast of Australia and Van Diemen's Land. Billy Bragg comments on the penal colonies that were set up there. Back in Ireland the new wave of global idealism has hit Ireland. Dr Niall O' Crossain comments on the movement for democracy & human rights and the formation in 1791 of the United Irishmen in Belfast, which brought together Protestants & Catholics to change the political system. Dr Maura Cronin comments on the British refusal to introduce reforms and the move of the United Irishmen towards militarism. A rebellion began in 1978 with the Battle of Vinegar Hill. 1798 is profiled, with Australian Thomas Keneally's comments. Then doctor Tony Moore comments on the defeat of the rebellion and the save reprisals. Micheal O' Doibhilin states that 500 United Irishmen were arrested in Kildare and 300 were executed. In Clonmel a small band of militants continue to harass the British. They were led by Philip Cunningham. Attack re-enactment film clip is shown. Betrayed by an informant Cunningham is captured in 1799 and exiled to Australia without his family. There are 460 other United Irishmen already in Australia. Film clip shows the Sydney Governor's panicking at as Irish rebels arrive. There are now 600 in Sydney. On the ship to Australia a mutiny led by Cunningham is defeated and he gets 100 lashes. Dr Tadig O'Hannrachan comments on the effect that the United Irishmen will have in Australia. When Cunningham arrives in Australia the Irish make up 12% of the population. He says it was practically a slave colony run by a Protestant ascendency. In 1804 a ship from Ireland brought news of Robert Emmett's rebellion and his execution. On March 4th in Australia Cunningham and his men decide to overthrow their jailers and take a ship back to Ireland. He had 300 men. They sieze arms and go from farm to farm looting and burning, but discipline breaks down with alcohol consumed. On 5th March 1804 British troops arrive at their camp outside Sydney and defeat the United Irishmen. Tomas Keneally comments. Cunningham is hanged without trial. Back in London the Act of Union is passed. London now rules Ireland, but in the Wicklow mountains a 4 year guerilla campaign is waged against the Crown led by Michael Dwyer, known as the Wicklow chief. In 1803 his family is captured and he surrenders on the condition that he is sent to America but the British renege and he is sent to Australia where Governor Bligh of Mutiny on the Bounty was in charge. He hated the Irish. Dr Tony Moore comments on Bligh. In 1807 he charges Dwyer with sedition. Dywer is exiled to Norfolk Island in 1808. Bligh is then overthrown by his own troops and Dwyer is released 1 year later. He becomes a policeman and a publican, but alcohol gets the better of him and he dies in 1825, leaving 7 children and 21 grandchildren. 100 years later he was re-buried at Waverley Cemetery and 100,000 people attended his re-burial. Back in the UK Wales has become a hotbed of unrest as industrialization causes misery. Dr Bill Jones comments on the workers' poor conditions. 50% of children died before the age of 5. Billy Bragg comments on the British establishment. In 1836 William Lovett devised the People's Charter for voting rights for all. Dr M Cronin comments on the split within Chartism. Between non-violent & violent action. Two key men emerge. Zephaniah Williams and John Frost. From different backgrounds they plan to march an army of workers on Newport to drive the Crown out of Wales. Ray Howell explains the plans. The plan fails and the leaders are rounded up and put on trial, where they are sentenced to death, which is commuted to transportation for life to Hobart in Van Diemen's Land. They are put in Port Arthur prison. Hamish Maxwell Stewart comments. Williams is put to work in the coal mines. He is strongly suspected of organizing an escape plan and is put in solitary confinement. He describes the conditions in his writings. Dr Tony Moore describes his writings and their effect on ending the transportations. Cassandra Pybus refers to the writings of American slave/martyr Linus Millar, born in 1817 in New York. He joined the American Patriots who wanted to liberate Canada from British rule. In 1838 they cross into Canada to ignite a Canadian revolt. They are quickly rounded up and charged with piratical invasion and sentenced to death but the British commute this to transportation as they did not want to anger the USA. Film clip shows the Governor welcome him with a warning. While working Miller writes about everything going on, the suffering and the conditions. He and another attempt to escape, but were caught and sent to Port Arthur, where he was raped. He writes about the conditions. Also in Port Arthur is Zephaniah Williams. On his release he becomes a Constable but his pardon is refunded by London authorities. He is sent back to Port Arthur. Meanwhile the anti-transportation League is growing, as is the anti-slavery league in Australia. In 1845 Linus Millar is pardoned and returns to America where he writes condemning the penal system. The days of transportation are limited.
Wed 7th Oct 2015
The DUP has said that it's ministers will not claim pay, even for the days that they are working. Film report from Chris Page on the DUP's revolving strategy. Then reaction from the SDLP's Alban Magennis and NI21's Basil McCrea but the DUP's Simon Hamilton defends their in/out policy. The NI Secretary T Villiers, speaking at the Tory conference in Manchester, says that the credibility of devolved government is at stake in the talks process. She also wants agreement on welfare reform and says that a return to direct rule would be a severe setback. She also attacks the Labour leader J Corbyn 2for saying he didn't condemn PIRA violence, despite being asked several times. At the inquest today into the 2002 murder of Daniel McColgan by the Loyalist UFF the coroner John Lecky expressed concern that he could not allay some of the rumours and suspicions concerning the death. Film report on the 2002 murder. The coroner expressed concern that bullet casings related to the murder have gone missing. After the inquest the family's solicitor, Fearghal Shiels, outlines the family's concerns, including the use of a former security force weapon in the murder and the role of a Special Branch officer in the investigation.
The Nolan Show
In the studio live, Steven Nolan debates the crisis at Stormont, in/out ministers, hospital waiting times soaring and the paramilitaries still lurking in the background. Stormont's credibility and survival is on the line. With him to argue the party positions are Alex Maskey (Sinn Fein), Edwin Poots (DUP), Danny Kennedy (UUP), Fearghal McKinney (SDLP) and David Ford (Alliance). Nolan begins with a film clip of a warning from NI Secretary T Villiers on NI's future. Edwin Poots agrees with Nolan that it is a complete farce. He accuses Sinn Fein and the SDLP of blocking welfare reform for the last two years and that this has led to fines and cuts in education and health. He also mentions the two Belfast murders. The in/out ministerial policy is designed is to bring things to a head and end stagnation. He is cross-examined by Nolan on hospital waiting lists. He blames Sinn Fein. Nolan criticizes the DUP for leaving a finance minister in place but not a health minister. Poots says that they can't just ignore two murders and the loss of million in relation to welfare reform. Then Nolan turns on SF's Alex Maskey about the Chief Constable's recent statement on PIRA activity and SF's statement that the PIRA has gone away. Maskey replies that Sinn Fein ministers are at their posts and in talks. Nolan asks Maskey has George Hamilton backed down on his claim that the PIRA were involved in the McGuigan murder. Maskey doesn't answer and tells Nolan to ask George Hamilton himself. He repeats that SF haven't murdered anyone and that they have a political mandate and are looking for a solution to this situation. He repeats that the Tories are part of the problem and that we need more money. Nolan criticizes NI Secretary of State T Villiers for refusing to appear on the show. Then Nolan invites questions from the audience. A question asked about pay when they are not doing their jobs. Poots answers. Then D Kennedy is tackled over their resignation from the Executive over the McGuigan murder. Nolan says that they aare running away from the problems. D Kennedy says that they have forced the issues to be dealt with. He denies that it is political maneouvering because of an election next year. He repeats the Chief Constable and David Cameron on paramilitarism. He is reminded that last year the DUP & UUP stood side by side with Loyalist paramilitaries during the so-called 'graduated response' to the parades issue. D Kennedy says that Loyalists aren't in government and recalls John Hume's talks with SF/IRA in the early peace process. Nolan questions him further on his links to groups who knee-cap people. Then A Maskey tackles him on the use of the word 'contaminated' when talking about talking with SF. He reminds Kennedy of UVF involvement in drug dealing. Nolan stops the conversation as the clash gets angry here between Nolan, Poots and SF. Poots says he 'holds his nose' when dealing with Sinn Fein. Nolan questions him about this. He says that the smell of SF is of years of terrorism. Maskey and Poots exchange angry words over the issue of working together. Poots says that SF's benches are packed with ex-prisoners and hunger strikers whilst Maskey says that SF are building peace in NI. Nolan asks them do they hate each other as he is worried that these two parties are running NI's future. Maskey points to Martin McGuinness' condemnation of dissident Republican violence. Poots says that he doesn't hate SF, as that would 'eat him up' but that he does business with people that he doesn't like. The Alliance's David Ford says that we need to get away from the 'whataboutery' and finger-pointing or else we are not going to make any progress. Stormont requires people to work together. He then gives his view on the independent panel on paramilitaries and will it be a game-changer or not. He wants a full IMC reinstated. Then the SDLP's F McKinney says that the unionists are electioneering and guilty of hypocrisy in relation to their attitude to the UDA. He criticizes the DUP in/out policy. Then Poots and Nolan accuse the SDLP of blocking welfare reform. This point is argued back and forth. He is asked what is the SDLP's 'big idea' for reducing waiting lists? He says that it is to get more money from the British government. D Ford says that the Treasury will not agree of that. McKinney accuses him of siding with the DUP and giving into the Tory austerity policy. D Kennedy criticizes the SDLP. Then Nolan shows June 2015 health service figures for cancer waiting lists. 106 had to wait two months for their first appointment. Other statistics are shown. Poots accuses the SF/SDLP 'Magpies' for taking all the money for welfare claimants. Both debate the point then questions from the audience again. One wants direct rule. Then Nolan reads out a M McGuinness statement on welfare payments that people here have that they don't have in England anymore such as free prescriptions, lower student fees etc. Nolan asks if SF is preparing to 'roll over'. A Maskey says that they will look at everything during the talks, and SF are listening to the people. Nolan pushes him on SF's welfare 'red lines'. A Maskey comments on SF's Stormont House Agreement position. Then another question from the audience criticizing local politicians for bickering. Nolan ends the debate and thanks the panel.
Thu 8th Oct 2015
The Troubles I've Seen
Series 4, Part 1
In this series of programmes journalists who reported on the NI troubles recall events that they witnessed and reported on. Journalists like Bill Neely, Gavin Esler, Eamon Holmes, and Gordon Burns use TV clips to illustrate their stories. The series is narrated by Denis Tuohy. The programme begins with a vox pop of the journalists' stories on tonight's programme. Then, after the opening titles Denis Tuohy recalls earlier programmes in the series covering the 1960s to the 1980s. This programme takes up the story in 1988. In Gibraltar in March 1988 three members of a PIRA Active Service Unit (ASU) Sean Savage, Mairead Farrell and Daniel McCann were shot dead by the SAS. There was political controversy over whether the killings were lawful. At the funeral of the three in Milltown cemetery mourners were attacked with bullets and bombs. A few days later two british soldiers were killed in Andersonstown at the funeral of a Milltown victim. Reporter Maria McCann recalls the events. She went to school with Mairead Farrell. Film of 5/4/1976 Conway Hotel bomb for which M Farrell was arrested. Film of 5/3/1988 in Gibraltar was shown. Then 16/3/1988 attack at Milltown cemetery by Loyalist Michael Stone where 3 were killed and 50 injured. Press Association's Derek Henderson recalls the events of that day and the chaos around the events. Then Gavin Esler's recollections, then Eamon Maillie, the Jim McDowell's recollections with more film clips shown, including Martin MCGuinness's reaction in Milltown. Derek Henderson recalls that his mobile phone wouldn't work and he just wanted to get the story out. E Maillie recalls Gerry Adams reaction as 'its one of those things' and his calling on young people to stay calm. Then Noel Doran (Belfast Telegraph 1984-1992) recalls the rush to get the story out by phone and how he was attacked by the crowd until 'Cleeky' Clarke, a Republican, recognizes him and gets him out, Then Jim McDowell recalls W Holbeck getting him to the bus station to use the phone and insisting that it was a reverse charge call. Three days later on 19/3/1988 two out of uniform British soldiers who had driven into the funeral area were attacked by the crowd. They were taken away by the crowd and shot dead. Film clip shown. Noel Doran was in Fermanagh where the PIRA had killed G Johnstone on 18/3/1988. Film clip shown with Ken Magennis' reaction. The story was overtaken by events in Andersonstown. Jim McDowell wonders if he was guilty of cowardice by not helping the two British soldiers. News Executive R Walsh recalls the volume of claimants following the film of the attack being broadcast. Then from 24/3/1988 Maria McCann's report covers police seizing film clips of the two soldiers killings following demands by M Thatcher. Some time later the Belfast Telegraph's Ed Curran got to interview Michael Stone in prison, who praised the Telegraph and the Sunday Life for not calling him a 'maniacal killer'. Ed Curran describes the security around his visit. Ed Curran then published a series of articles on Stone. Jim recalls his meeting with Stone and his remark about shooting someone who 'falls like a suit from a coathanger'. Programme ends with a preview of the next programme about the media ban on Sinn Fein, the bravery of camera operators and juveniles' attempts to hijack a film crew's car.
Presented by Mark Carruthers tonight's programme focuses on the all-time low in relations between the DUP and Sinn Fein,especially after Edwin Poots' remarks about 'holding his nose when dealing with SF. Earlier M Carruthers interviewed acting First Minister A Foster about this, but first asks her her views on the current talks at Stormont. Overall she says that progress has been made but that there are good days and bad days. She believes that it will be a 4 to 6 week process. The M Carruthers asks her what she thought of Edwin Poots' choice of words when talked about having to 'hold his nose' when dealing with SF. She says that it is a challenging time and emotions are high and that we should always remember what happened in the past but be positive about the future and that that is what we need to focus on. She says that the DUP respects SF's madate but that that doesn't take away from the fact that some of their members were involved in paramilitary activity and heinous crimes. When asked about C Ní Chúilin's view that E Poots comments were 'disgraceful' she says that she was directly affected by PIRA activity and that she finds it difficult to work with SF but that she doesn't actually hold her nose, but that it shouldn't surprise anyone that the DUP find it difficult to work with SF, some of whom are murderers but she believes that the DUP are right to be involved in devolution for the sake of her children. She recalls her own 'rogues and renegades' language from a few weeks ago and says that she has sympathy with Edwin. She then says that M Carruthers has misquoted her 'rogues and renegades' statement and they argue about what she said. She said she was need as a 'gatekeeper' as she has already had to challenge an SDLP ministerial decision. She says she does not regret her comments and words are important but actions are much more important and this what has caused the current crisis. On the DUP policy of in/out ministers she defends this action and doesn't accept that it was a mistake. She comments on why Health minister Simon Hamilton was made a 'special' minister like Finance. She goes on to deride direct rule if that happens. She says that the IRA caused this situation with the Kevin McGuigan murder. She says they didn't wait to see the panel report on paramilitarism before going for semi-detached ministers. She wants to hear that there is no targeting going on, that there are no arms being bought but she doesn't regret pulling out of the Executive. She's then asked to comment on UKIP's David McNarry and Labour's Jonathan Powell's discussions with Loyalist paramilitaries in an attempt to get them to leave the stage. She welcomes any move which aims to disband paramilitaries. Next M Carruthers introduces a film report from Gareth Gordon looking at the recent success of the NI football team and asks whether many, or any, NI Catholics now call themselves supporters of the NI football team? Has the NI football team re-built its reputation, like Windsor Park? Film of 17/11/1993 NI v RoImstch shown. Sectarianism was rife that night, leading to a play called 'One Night in November'. PhD student comments on Nationalists' views of the team now. Then a vox pop of NI fans' views in a bar in Belfast. The Irish News editor Noel Doran on his views on NI football, the the DUP's Nelson McCausland, then SF's Cathal O' hOisin. They comment on God Save the Queen being played at NI matches. Next report M Carruthers interviews SF's Caral Ní Chuilin, Culture, Arts & Leisure Minister on the cuts that she has had to make to budgets and why the cuts are happening now. He budget has went from £14m in 2012 to £10m this year. She blames the Tories' austerity policy. She doesn't have the budget to meet the demands for culture and arts services. She answers M Carruthers question on who gets the cuts, especially th Arts Council or the Ulster Orchestra. She is also asked if SF's stance on welfare reform is softening after a speech last night. She denies that that was what Martin McGuinness was talking about, but talks will continue. On Edwin Poots remarks about SF she said they were offensive and disgraceful and follow on from the 'rogues & renegades' comments from A Foster, and D Kennedy's 'contamination' remarks. She holds her head high, as do all of the SF team. Then in commentators' corner Dawn Purvis and Denis Bradley give their reactions to A Foster's interview comments on the paramilitary review panel's hopes, and reality of politics and respecting Sinn Fein's mandate. They also comment on dealing with the past and the national security issue, and the talks between Loyalists and J Powell. They also comment on the use of language by politicians and its consequences. They also comment of the football story then a comic routine from 1994 about soccer.
Sat 10th Oct 2015
A dissident republican bomb at a Derry hotel has been refused. It was to hold a police recruiting show tomorrow. Police report with PSNI ACC Mark Hamilton's comments. Then PSNI Chief Constable George Hamilton has spoken at the PUP annual conference. Film report with his remarks on paramilitarism (Jude Whyte presents). Then PUP's Billy Hutchinson on paramilitaries' role within the peace process.
Sun 11th Oct 2015
Irish TV
Eamon Maillie meets Martin McGuinness
Journalist E Maillie interviews Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness about his upbringing in Derry, the role of religion and politics in his family home, the 'battle of the bogside' an incident where he stole from his school, his joining of the Official IRA and leaving to join the Provisional IRA. He also recalls Bloody Sunday and rejects the Saville Inquiry allegation that he was armed on that day. He blames a British agent for that allegation. He recalls his two days of giving evidence to the inquiry and explains why he decided to appear in front of the judge in the first place. In questioning him E Maillie asks him how he can square his religious upbringing and his Christianity with belonging to the violent PIRA? M McGuinness states that he was very proud to have been in the PIRA. E Maillie asks him did he ever kill anyone when he was in the PIRA? M McGuinness says that he won't talk about shooting anyone or participate in sensationalizing violence by commentating. E Maillie asks him that if there was a truth commission set up here would he testify about the soldiers that he killed, or that the PIRA killed, in Derry? Again he replies that he won't sensationalise his time in the IRA. E Maillie asks him has he repented for PIRA violence in his own head? He again repeats that he was proud to have been in the PIRA. He says that he was always political and he goes on to recall the beginning of the peace moves that would eventually lead to the Good Friday Agreement. Maillie asks him why Gerry Adams won't admit to having been in the IRA. McGuinness replies that anyone who admits to having been in the PIRA could be arrested, charged and jailed. M McGuinness goes on to discuss what he thinks Protestants and Unionists in NI think of him, leading to his view on his belated friendship with the late DUP leader Ian Paisley. He also comments on his rejection of the beliefs and ideas of dissident Republicans and gives his views on the threats that they pose to himself but he says that if he was worried about that then he wouldn't open the door in the morning. The peace process is more important than all that he says.
Mon 12th Oct 2015
In Omeath a dissident Republican known as A Mackin has shot a Garda officer, Anthony Golden, during a domestic dispute. The gunman killed himself after wounding his wife. He was out on bail on terrorist charges. Film Report with Fr Christy McElwee's comments in the scene. Then Garda Sergeant Gerry Cudley comments. Then SF's Gerry Adams pays tribute to the Garda officer. A new group, the Loyalist Community Council is to be launched tomorrow. Tony Blair's Chief of Staff Jonathan Powell is to attend the launch. Meanwhile the PSNI have given their assessment of the activities of the PIRA and other paramilitary groups to the new monitoring panel. Film report from Mark Devenport reviews Loyalism since the Good Friday Agreement with an interview with UKIP's David McNarry on unfinished with Loyalism. He denies that it is all about getting funding for Loyalism.
Real Lives Re-united
There are two parts to this programme. Part 1 is about the staff at Hillsborough Castle re-uniting to remember the NI Secretary of State Mo Mowlam who lived there when she NI Secretary and they recall her disregard for protocol. Part 2 is about a child star who made 1980s TV history in a BBC children's programme called 'Why don't you?' It is not in this digital disc but it can be seen in the VHS Tape 576. After an introduction to what the whole series is about this episode begins with a quick summary of the main news stories of 1997, then a report on Labour's Tony Blair's election as Prime Minister and his appointment of Mo Mowlam as NI Secretary, a woman who spoke her mind often without fear of the consequences. The domestic staff at Hillsborough Castle were used to doing things the 'proper' way. Household manager David Anderson expected a war with Mo Mowlam over the traditions of the house. He was eager to maintain these traditions, traditions that Mo Mowlam seemed to have little time for. Olwyn McCarthy, the cook, comments on the change in music played. Then housekeeper Margaret Power comments on the Comments on the Mowlam 'open house' policy as it was all change at the Castle. David Anderson recalled his love of pomp and ceremony and the many important people who had visited Hillsborough but his formality, especially over dress code, did not impress Mo Mowlam. He recalls events around the opening of the Waterfront Hall, attended by Prince Charles, and Mo Mowlam's comments when he appeared in his best coat & tails suit. Mo Mowlam's husband was with her at Hillsborough and her two step-children joined them for the weekend and school holidays. The staff comment on the children's activities at Hillsborough. Mo Mowlam held parties at Hillsborough. D Anderson calls them 'social occasions'. They comment on the tidy-up afterwards. Then its 15 years later and D Anderson and the staff return to the Castle for a meet-up. They all comment on their excitement. They show their photos from their time at Hillsborough, and talk about Hilary Clinton's visit. Olwyn shows a hand-written letter from Mo thanking her for her friendship. D Anderson didn't get one. The go for a walk around Hillsborough and recall the children's 'race track'. D Anderson then recalls an incident when Tony Blair was at the house. They were in the dining room and he recalls Mo Mowlam removing her wig and throwing it in the middle of the table in front of Ted Kennedy and the US Ambassador. They recall their shock. The staff then recall how Mo dealt with her cancer, not feeling well, and the fractured NI politics but how she never complained. In August 2005 she died of cancer aged 55. Her ashes were scattered at Hillsborough. The staff says that that showed how much she enjoyed her time at the Castle.
The three main Loyalist paramilitary groups (UDA, UVF & Red Hand Commando) have formed a new group called the Loyalist Community Council (LCC) and have promised to work towards ending criminality within Loyalism and to improve their communities. Film report from the press conference which is fronted by Jonathan Powell, a former adviser to Tony Blair, from Vincent Kearney. It's significant as 21 years ago today the same groups declared a ceasefire. Film clip shown of Gusty Spence's comments, but since then those 3 groups have killed over 50 people and been involved in a wide range of criminal activity. Then a film of Jonathan Powell's announcement. He says that Loyalists were left behind and denies that it was all about money. Then the PUP's Billy Hutchinson's views, then the UDA's Jackie McDonald comments. Then Vincent Kearney's analysis of Loyalism in crime today. A further report from Mark Simpson gathers the views of relatives of people killed by Loyalists since the ceasefire, who gather outside the conference leading to some tensions. Film clip shown. Then Tracey Coulter, whose father was killed in a Loyalist feud 15 years ago, says its all about money. Then Gareth McCord, whose brother Raymond was by the UVF, comments. Then UU academic Tim Chapman comments on what he sees as the changing face of Loyalism. Then east Belfast Presbyterian Minister and Orangemen Mervyn Gibson says that by and large Loyalist paramilitaries are moving in the right direction. In Craigavon the body of a man has been found in Dingwell Park. Film report on latest news. At Stormont the DUP and SF have voted down a proposed law from Jim Allister (TUV) that would have reduced Special Advisers' pay. Film report from Chris Page with film clip of Jim Allister's speech.
Bás na Saoríse (Death or Freedom)
In 'docudrama' style this programme continues with the same theme as part1, to deal with how the British Empire dealt with protests against its rule in Ireland, Wales and England, but it is Irish rebels and Welsh radicals who were at the forefront of this faced being exiled to Australia, with over 40,000 Irish rebels sent to Australia, where many continued the fight for justice. In 1848 an aristocrat and son of a West-Indian slave challenged the Crown and was charged with treason. Then a concert of songs about transportation by Billy Bragg, Mick Thomas and Lisa O'Neill praises these rebels who helped bring democracy to Australia. Film clip shown. The episode begins with an explanation of why Britain used Australia as a penal colony, but by the 1840s a campaign against transportation had begun. Dr Tadig O' Lannrachan comments, then writer Thomas Kenneally comments passing on their radical ideas while in Australia. Dr Tony Moore comments on the growth of the anti-transportation movement alongside calls for self for Australians and democracy. The programme then profiles John Frost, a former Welsh magistrate and mayor in 1839. In 1839 he a Zephaniah Williams marched on Newport to drive the British out of south Wales. The rising failed and they were sent to Van Dieman's Land. Dr David Howell comments on the cruelty inflicted on the prisoners. John Frost wrote letter entitled 'The Republic of letters' on the cruelty and barbarity. Frost is put to hard labour. Aged 57, after 14 years a convict he and Williams are freed but are not allowed to return to Wales. Williams becomes a coal miner and Frost travels to the USA in 1855 and campaigns to end the transportation policy. Dr Tony Moore gives details of his writings about the evils of the British policy. In Europe in 1848 the springtime of nations erupts as people rise up against unfair regimes. In Ireland Dr Maura Cronin explains the Young Ireland movement's peaceful struggle to change society led by MP William Smith O'Brien. Dr Tony Moore explains his background. However by 1845 the potato famine had hit Ireland. O'Brien becomes increasingly angry at Britain's failure to help Ireland. 1.5 million people died in the famine and another 1 million emigrated, yet food was still exported to England. M O'Doibhilin explains Ireland's despair. 10/4/1848 O'Brien's speech at Westminster attacks British rule in Ireland. T Moore comments on its effect in Ireland. In July 1848 in Commons in Tipperary the Young Irelanders light the spark by defending a widow against eviction and shooting at the police. The academics highlight O'Brien's unsuitability for leading revolution or violence. British reinforcements arrive and after the cottage siege the revolution falls apart. In a land full of starving people no-one wants to fight. O'Brien is sentenced to death. After an outcry in Ireland, the USA and England he and others are transported to Australia. On his arrival in November 1849 the British exiled him to Maria Island to silence him. An attempt to escape fails and he is sent to Port Arthur prison. The cruel and inhumane treatment is highlighted. Tony Moore explains how Smith O'Brien kept his links with the anti-transportation movement. Eventually he gets a ticket to leave. Freedom but he cannot leave Australia. Australian citizens welcomed him and he was feted by prominent people and he campaigns for democracy. He writes a constitution for Tasmania. Jack Kineally comments, then T Moore on Smith O'Brien's importance. In 1856 he is allowed back to Ireland and dies in 1864. Most convicts die in Australia. The programme then profiles Welshmen who belonged to the 'daughters of Rebecca', rural people who attacked toll gates and toll houses that charged them to use the roads in rural Wales. They were also called the 'hitmen' of Chartism. The name follows the fact that they were dressed in women to carry out the attacks. Only two were ever charged, John Jones and David Davies. One was a former soldier and the other was a poet. Both are sent to Van Diemen's Land and once there John Jones proves to be a troublesome prisoner. The behavior of prisoners is shown on their 'charge sheets'. Jones was 14 years in Australia before he was allowed home. During his time in Australia he received 1000 lashes. His downfall after he was released was alcohol. By 1854 Z Williams' coalmine was a thriving business. He takes Jones and Davies under his wing. Williams died in 1874. His grandson became a Liberal MP for 23 years. Back in Wales a new Chartist generation led by William Cuffey, a tailor and son of a freed slave, demands radical politics and change. He organizes a rally in London in 1848. 300,000 attended. Queen Victoria left London. Maura Cronin recalls events that day as Parliament rejects their petition. Cuffey is arrested and sentenced to transportation for life. Dr T Moore comments. In Van Diemens Land Cuffey campaigns against masters & servants act which controlled employment laws. He spoke at meetings from 1856. In 1867 transportation to Australia is stopped. The last ship in October 1867 contains 60 Irish Fenians, the last political convicts sent to Australia. The programme gives details of the Fenian attacks on Britain. The academics give details of the Fenian uprising. Among the convicts is a lawyer called John Flood. He was interested in writing, even on the prison ship. He read to the fellow prisoners. Thomas Kinneally comments. In 1871 Flood is freed and founded a newspaper, the Irish Citizen. Later in Queensland he owns the Gympie Times. Tony Moore comments on their achievements, especially on democracy in Australia. William Cuffey dies in 1870. All the characters highlighted in these two programmes are mentioned and their role in Australian advancement is highlighted but imperfections still exist in Australia regarding Aboriginals.
Loyalist paramilitary groups have formed a new Loyalist Community Council which they claim will help them move away from criminality and violence for good. Tony Blair's former press advisor Jonathan Powell chairs the press conference announcement. Film report from east Belfast with J Powell's comments begins with a reminder of the ceasefire 21 years ago today, but in today's announcement there is no mention of disbandment. Powell comments on this aspect, the PUP's Billy Hutchinson says that this is a process, not an event. The UDA's Jackie McDonald denies that this is all about getting money. Outside the venue victims of Loyalist violence Raymond McCord and his son Gareth, and Tracy Coulter, are skeptical about today's event. Then journalist Tracy Magee comments. In a further report S O'Neill interviews John Allen, whose son was murdered by the UVF, for his reaction. His son was murdered in 2003. He says that he wants justice and that the UVF cannot be trusted as they have murdered before whilst on so called ceasefires, with extortion, beatings etc. S O'Neill profiles the Bobby Moffatt and Brian McIlhagga murders by Loyalists, and sectarian killings. Mark Rodgers, whose father was killed by the UDA in 1993, hopes that this will bring real change. S O'Neill's analysis. In the studio security journalist Brian Rowan gives his opinion on today's announcement. All we got were words today. It will be judged on the next steps. He comments on the security panel's report on paramilitaries which is due in the coming days, especially on who killed K McGuigan. Then Ken Reid interviews J Powell on why he got involved in this Loyalist process. He defends their decision not to disband and says it is not about money. He comments on his sympathy for the victims and his role in the future. Also in the studio the PUP's Winston Irvine comments on criminality in loyalism and what will be the proof of their words. He says that you can't be a Loyalist and be a drug dealer. He doesn't believe Loyalism will fracture. He comments on Loyalist victims' reactions today and denies that today is about money.
The DUP's Peter Robinson gives evidence on the NAMA affair to the Stormont Finance Committee. He calls the allegations made against him by Loyalist flag protestor Jamie Bryson as groundless and outrageous. Film report in which he denies that he was to receive any money from the NAMA deal. It also reviews the history of the NAMA case to date. Also today Peter Robinson rejects SF's M McGuinness' claim that he wasn't kept informed about the NAMA deal. SF's M O'Meuilloir and P Robinson disagree in their views of NAMA middlemen Ian Coulter and Frank Cushnahan.SF's D McKay criticizes P Robinson's 'memory blank' over certain phone calls. In the studio T Magee gives her analysis of P Robinson's performance over 3 hours. It is revealed that M McGuinness has repeated his claim that he was not kept fully briefed about the NAMA deal. A film clip of his remarks are shown. 24 hours after Loyalist paramilitaries say that they are turning away from crime and violence there is a mixed reaction in local communities. Film report from Judith Hill on the Shankill Road who interviews Pastor Jack McKee on Loyalist terror on locals. Then Billy Drummond of Shankill Alternatives is more upbeat, as is Betty Carlisle of the Shankill Women's Centre. Then Judith Hill gets reaction from the Carrick area from Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson. Back on the Shankill in the Hammer Youth Club young people Marcus Wood and Chloe Brown comment. As NI Coroner John Leckey retires NI does not now have a coroner and has a backlog of inquests. The Bar Council's Gerry McAlinden says that the system is in chaos. Film report with Justice Minister David Ford's opinion, then solicitor Niall Murphy's comments on legacy inquest cases.
Thu 15th Oct 2015
Series in which well-known journalists recall personal memories of incidents which they reported on during the troubles. The programme begins with a quick vox pop then after the opening titles a look back at October 1988 when broadcasters were faced with a ban on Sinn Fein and Loyalist spokepersons from the airwaves. All organisations were included in the restrictions. Bill Neely comments on the media savvy of SF compared to Loyalism, not only in the UK & here, but also in the USA and abroad. Film clip from February 1994 of Gerry Adams in the USA is shown. Then an April 1994 interview with M McGuinness using an actor's voice. Robin Walsh, a network news executive (1981-1990) talks about the difficulties they faced because of the ban. The UTV's John Irvine talks about visiting the homes of murder victims to interview them and how he was received. Nobody was ever rude to him. Then Maria McCann recalls her similar experiences. Then Noel Doran (Belfast Telegraph 1984-1992) recollections of this aspect of his job. Then Gavin Esler recalls a bus driver being shot and having a conversation with his widow. Next Derek Henderson (Belfast Telegraph 1973-1980) recalls a UVF murder on the Lisburn Road in October 1974 and his visit to the dead man's mother who hadn't been told yet that her son was dead. He still regrets that and will never forget it. Then Gavin Esler recalls, near the Beehive Bar on the Falls Road, a 12 year old trying to break into his car and the events that followed. After the break a B&W film clip of the Markets area is shown, then a series of pictures of violence and Ed Curran of the Belfast Telegraph talks about what pictures they were allowed to show down through the years and the arrangements for sanitizing the images of violence. He recalls photos of two men shot on a bus. Film clip shown and the reaction to his decision to publish the picture. Then Jim McDowell gives his opinion on the topic of what to publish and what not to, with films of violence shown with a cameraman in the midst of it all. Next topic is mistakes reporters have made. UTV's Maria McCann says that 'facts are supreme'. She recalls hearing that a man had been shot near Casement Park in West Belfast in a punishment shooting. She repeated this in her article. Months later the man contacted her say that he had actually been shot in a sectarian shooting and he described the effect that her report had on his life and reputation. Belfast-born Bill Neely, film clip shown from 26/7/1986, in Newry where 18 RUC officers were killed in 18 months. He recalls the murder of 3 RUC officers with a grenade and trying to film it without showing the bodies. He recalls their ice cream lying beside them. Then preview of the next programme and how ordinary murders weren't news anymore.
Headlines, then breaking news that an explosive device found in north Belfast's Cliftonville area could have been an under car booby trap bomb say police. Film report. In the Republic murdered Garda officer Tony Golden was given a state funeral. Film report from Blackrock with the priest's comments on his murder. He was killed whilst protecting a young mother from her violent partner Adrian Mackin from Newry. Then Garda commissioner Noirin O'Sullivan comments, then Patrick Golden. The former President of South Africa, F.W de Klerk is to give a lecture on leadership at QUB. He will recall his first meeting with Nelson Mandela and the peace process similarities between NI & S Africa. Film report with film clip of de Klerk speaking about Mandela and the peace process.
Fri 16th Oct 2015
Headlines then in Derry John Hume and Ivan Cooper attend the unveiling of a new mural in their honour in the Bogside. Film report of old film clips of civil rights marches with the comments of John Hume and Ivan Cooper, now in their 70s.Then the Housing Executive's Jennifer Hawthorne explains why they helped pay for the mural
Coverage of unveiling in Derry of a mural for CRA s John Hume and Ivan Cooper with John Hume and Ivan Cooper's comments, then Tom Kelly of the Bogside artists comments, then NIHE's J Hawthorne and campaigner Vincent Coyle's views.
SF's Gerry Adams says that next week's talks will be the most challenging since the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Report on his speech in Strabane covers his remarks. In Belfast police have arrested a 47 year old man over the murder of Kevin McGuigan. Film report reviews effects of that murder and the review of paramilitaries due this week. Allison Morris views and Sam McBride's views. The report on paramilitaries will also report on Loyalist groups. A 39 year old man is due in court tomorrow charged with directing terrorism.
Part 4: Brighton 1984
After the opening title sequence tonight's programme revisits the October 1984 Brighton bomb at the Tory party conference. The bomb planted by the PIRA targeted the then British PM Margaret Thatcher. She survived but 5 people died and many were injured. It begins with a TV news clip of the aftermath then 30 years later the policeman who was in charge of hotel security that day Detective Sergeant A Neill, who feels guilty for not stopping the attack, meets survivors of the blast who try to convince him that he does not need to feel guilty at all. Then news headlines from 1988 shown. Then Brighton Tory Party organizer Harvey Thomas recalls a senior policeman telling him that there was no intelligence of any threat to the conference, only a protest planned by miners. A Neill was in charge of VIP security he too was unaware of any security and after a couple of days he thought it was going well. He recalls the last night. Thatcher was at a young Tories ball then returned to her room. On 12th October at 2.54am the bomb exploded. Harvey Thomas recalls that moment, the A Neill's recollection. Film clip shown, then photos of journalist John Downing shown as he recalls his actions. Then Tory Roger Bouden recalls going to check on Thatcher and her reaction. Film of Harvey Thomas in the rubble as recalls firemen getting him out. A Neill's security was blamed but then it is revealed that the bomber, Patrick Magee, had planted the bomb 24 days earlier using a timer but A Neill was wracked with self doubt. He explains his thinking. Then 30 years later 3 survivors return to Brighton. They are Harvey Thomas, John Downing and Roger Bowden. They show their mementos of that night, then retired Det/Sgt A Neill joins the men. He is nervous. He makes his case to the trio about his guilty but they assure him that he shouldn't feel guilty. A Neill is re-assured. After the break Harvey Thomas and his daughter meet the fireman who rescued Harvey, Fred Bishop. He describes the aftermath on his arrival and his decision to enter the building to look for casualties. Mike Ealing recalls finding Harvey Thomas, who thought he was going to die and his wife was pregnant. Fireman Ken Towner describes the rescue amid live electric cables. Film of Harvey's extraction and 1984 interview. 6 weeks later his daughter Lea was born. Harvey and Lea then meet the firemen. They recall that night. They have exchanged xmas cards since 1984. Then after a brief profile of the bomber Patrick Magee and his conviction and release Lea meets the firemen and thanks them for saving her daddy. The four men all give their reaction to the meeting.
The paramilitary assessment report commissioned by the British government's NI Secretary T Villiers says paramilitaries are involved in criminality but their leaders are committed to peace. In the Commons T Villiers says that the PIRA army council oversees both the PIRA and SF. Film report covers the contents of the report and political reaction and begins with a brief summary of its findings. Film report from Sharon O'Neill on T Villiers statement beginning with an analysis of comments about the PIRA. The structures remain but in a reduced form but the army council still exists and oversees both the PIRA & SF. The PIRA is not recruiting but does have access to weapons. As for the UDA its structures still exist but are fragmented into geographical areas. It does Recruit and has weapons, but the UFF is gone. The UVF still exists and is recruiting but it steering its members towards peaceful initiatives. All groups have been involved in murder but none are planning terror attacks but rogue elements in all the groups are a worry says T Villiers. All the groups are involved in criminality. The PIRA is involved in smuggling and isolated violence, including murder. The UDA is involved in drug dealing, extortion, robbery, counterfeit goods, assaults, rioting and violent protests. The UVF are involved in organized crime, drug dealing, assaults, extortion and smuggling. Then S O'Neill's analysis. At Stormont Marc Mallett reports on the political reaction. T Magee's report shows SF's Martin McGuinness reject the report findings on the army council involvement Nigel Dodds told Parliament that Paramilitaries need to be dealt with, highlighting the PIRA army council issue. In Stormont the UUP's Mike Nesbitt says that the report vindicated their walkout in August. The TUV's Jim Allister calls the DUP the 'hand maiden of the army council'. Next Ken Reid interviews Peter Robinson about the role of the army council and it's links to Sinn Fein. He says it has always been the same. He says that from an army point of view the army council has left the stage. Future talks must solve this or Stormont isn't sustainable. Robinson justifies going back into the Executive. Next Paul Clark interviews T Villiers who denies that the report is simply a 'box-ticking exercise. There was nothing in the report that surprised her. She believes that the next two weeks in the talks are crucial. Then at Stormont analysis of the report from political editor Ken Reid and reaction to it, and its implications. In the courts Carl Reilly (39) is charged with being a member of Oghlaigh ná hEireann and directing terrorism. Film report
Coverage of today's report on paramilitary activity in NI. Film report after headlines begins with a list of the reports key findings: The PIRA army council still exists and oversees both the PIRA and Sinn Fein. The PIRA still has weapons and individual members have been involved in criminality. Both the UDA and UVF have guns and are involved in organized crime. Then Vincent Kearney's film report examines the report's findings with T Villiers comments and M McGuinness' rejection of her claims. She says the PIRA are into peaceful means. Then 7 years (2008) ago the DUP leader P Robinson comments on the PIRA. T Villiers then outlines the UDA & UVF's criminality. The report doesn't mention the K McGuigan murder. Next, Mark Devenport interviews Peter Robinson about his reaction to today's report, which he says is uncomfortable reading, but that the DUP will return to its Stormont Executive role. He explains why and comments on the army council issue now and back in 2007 when they entered Stormont with Sinn Fein. He says Stormont's existence isn't certain. Then M McGuinness explains his reactions to the report's findings on the PIRA army council role. He says that it supports the peace process, as does the whole Republican family. Then the UUP's Mike Nesbitt claims credit for the report. Then the SDLP's Alex Attwood's response, then David Ford (Alliance) and then Jim Allister (TUV) who attacks the DUP position. Then T Villiers is asked about the army council. This isn't anything new she claims. She also comments on the Loyalist Community Council role after the reports views on Loyalist criminality. She outlines her view on the current political situation and no NI budget. Then Political Editor Mark Devenport gives his analysis of the DUP reaction to the report.
Wed 21st Oct 2015
The DPP Barra McGrory has ordered an investigation into 24 murders allegedly committed by British agent 'Stakeknife', Fed Scappaticci, and his Special Branch handlers' role in the murders. Film report from Sharon O'Neill profiles Scappaticci. The murders include Joe Fenton (1989) in west Belfast, Anthony McKiernan in January 1992 and Vincent Robinson in June 1991. The Police Ombudsman Michael Maguire comments on significance of today's announcement as his office is only empowered to look at issues regarding the culpability of the police and this new investigation will be more comprehensive. In a further report the families of murder victims Caroline Moreland (1994) and Joe Mulhearn (1993) give their reaction to today's announcement. It begins with a profile of Caroline Moreland case with her daughter Shauna's views on the security services role in the murder. Then Frank Mulhearn comments on his son's murder and wants an independent investigation. Both have no confidence in the PSNI. Mark Thompson of RFJ says that M Thatcher asked to meet Stakeknife in 1988. He says that the cover-goes right to the top of government.
DPP Barra McCrory has announced an investigation into 24 murders committed by British agent Stakeknife and the role of his handlers in this episode of the so-called 'dirty war'. Film report profiles Fred Scappaticci showing film of his denials 12 years ago, then DPS announcement of investigation into the full range of potential offences committed by him and his security force personnel. For two years the PO has been investigating collusion between the security forces and PIRA. M Maguire says that the enquiry is long overdue. Then a further report covers the reaction of Shauna Moreland whose mother Caroline was killed in 1994 and Frank Mulhern whose son Joe was killed in 1993. Both welcome the inquiry and want it fully resourced and not conducted by the PSNI. RFJ's Mark Thompson says he believes that Stakeknife was involved in up to 40 murders, all sanctioned by the security services. At Stormont inter-party talks have resumed a day after DUP ministers resumed their duties after accepting the report on paramilitaries. Clip of UUP's Mike Nesbitt saying that today's talks were like an episode of Fawlty Towers 'Don't mention the war'. Mark Devenport then reports on questions by Enda Kenny in the Dail about paramilitary activity. Gerry Adams denies that SF Are accountable to the IRA army council. He says that they are only accountable to the electorate. Then a report from the largely Unionist Upper Bann constituency on whether people prefer the DUP or the UUP responses to the paramilitary report, with Alastair Rushe of the Portadown Times views on the DUP/UUP positions. In other news in Ballycastle a house and a car were damaged in a sectarian attack with 'taigs out' painted on the house.
Thu 22nd Oct 2015
Presented by Mark Carruthers he begins by highlighting the issue of paramilitaries that hangs heavy over Stormont following the British government commissioned report last week on paramilitary activity. Despite unionist cynicism Sinn Fein insist that the IRA has gone away. According to the DUP's Peter Robinson our politicians have just two weeks to save Stormont from this and problems over other issues such as welfare reform and a budget. Film report of events of the week, starting with T Villiers presenting the report on the paramilitaries to Westminster and coverage of the political reaction to it from NI parties. Then M Carruthers interviews Sf's north Belfast MLA Gerry Kelly on his views of the claims that the IRA army council controls the IRA and SF. He says that SF is opposed to criminality and that the IRA leadership has brought all its people on board in support of the peace process and SF is controlled by its Ard Comhairle. He says that disagreement with the PSNI is part of democracy and that he disagrees with their comments about the PIRA still existing. If the report allows the unionists who have left the talks to return then he is glad of that as there are many issues that need dealt with. He repeats that the IRA no longer exists and comments on the talks process and says that the parties met today and engaged on the issues. He believes that the two governments have to be involved. He thinks that Mike Nesbitt and the UUP's position is an internal unionist battle with the DUP. He is then asked if he welcomes the investigation into Stakeknife. He says that he does and that the truth must come out whether it is comfortable or uncomfortable. Then he comments on the Haddock and Finucane cases and state agents being involved in murder. He believes an outside police force should handle the inquiry. Next M Carruthers interviews M Nesbitt and asks him why it is so important to him to get SF to admit that the IRA still exists. He explains his position that SF is in denial and is uncreditable. Then he argues with M Carruthers about his view of the DUP comment that SF leaders were always 'the same DNA' as the army council. Nesbitt says he won't flip-flop but will stay in the talks but might not sign up to adeal unless Sinn Fein admit that the IRA still exists. He says that he wants rid of all paramilitaries but denies his stance is about the election next year. Next, the internal battle within the SDLP as Colum Eastwood challenges A McDonnell for the leadership. Film report from Gareth Gordon profiles the contest, which has been low key. Commentator David McCann comments, then Colum Eastwood interview where he says he has asked for a leadership debate. A McDonnell says C Eastwood is inexperienced and too young to lead the SDLP as this stage. Then SDLP unrest in West Tyrone is profiled, with Daniel McCrossan's selection is profiled. A McDonnell defends his selection. He comments on the party chairwoman resigning this week and says she has no problem with his leadership. Then C Eastwood says that he would handle internal matters differently, then newly elected councillor John Gallen defends A McDonell's leadership. Then retiring MLA Dominic Bradley says that the challenge is good for the party. Tonight C Eastwood launched his campaign and was backed by Alex Attwood who explains why but A McDonnell denies that he is worried, and focuses on the criminality within loyalist paramilitaries which is highlighted in the report. Joining him are the chief executive of Cooperation Ireland Peter Sheridan and Sophie Long, a PhD student researching loyalism. P Sheridan believes that all the organisations are still a feature of life 20 years after the GFA. The justice agency needs to step up to deal with criminality and support those organisations that want a peaceful society. Many in these groups are genuine and honest. Sophie Long believes that the transformation of loyalist groups can be achieved. The issues to be addressed are social and economic, and solutions cannot be imposed on loyalists by others like mainstream unionism. She says that those who can't drop criminality are a matter for the PSNI. Both then discuss what tangible process would work and would be verifiable, and the issue of funding for loyalists. Then commentators Alex Kane and Paul McFadden discuss M Nesbitt and G Kelly's interviews, Stakeknife and loyalist criminality. Programme ends with film clip of local politicians playing golf.
Fri 23rd Oct 2015
Headlines, then the Lord Chief Justice made headlines today as two women, Siobhan Keegan and Denise McBride, were sworn in as High Court judges. Film report from Vincent Kearney on the male dominance of legal ranks since 1931 with LCJ Declan Morgan's comments on future appointments and the past exclusion of women.
In Holywood Catholic Conor Milligan has accused loyalists of attacking his home. Film report with interview. A Lisburn DUP councillor, Jenny Palmer, has left the party over alleged bullying and has joined the UUP. She says that she would like to stand for the UUP in next year's Stormont election. Film report and interview.
Headlines then at Belfast City Hall a programme was unveiled to commemorate the 1916 rising. Those behind the programme are keen that the loyalist communities can engage. Film report with SF's Lord Mayor Arder Carson;s comments. Then Desmond Cassidy, whose cousin Winifred Carney was rebel leader James Connolly's secretary, gives his reaction and views. Then in the studio SF's Tom Hartley, one of the organisers, and east Belfast loyalist Jim Wilson (PUP) discuss the issue of loyalists engaging with 1916 commemorations with Jim Wilson criticizing republicans for their attitude towards Covenant events in 2012. Jim Wilson respects Tom Hartley but has an issue with republicans over flag protests etc. Then a report from T Magee at Stormont on today's talks regarding welfare reform and budget issues. She says that the pace of the talks is dead slow and stop and that the stalemate on welfare reform still exists. She gives details of the SF position, which hasn't changed. Talks on legacy continue on Wednesday.
Programme begins with a quicks review of other stories in this series. The first is from President Clinton and his wife Hilary's visit to NI 20 years ago. Tonight the people he met tell what the meeting and the visit meant to their lives. The second report tells how the De Lorean car, made in Belfast, made movie history in the 1980s. De Lorean workers re-unite but firstly 1995 and a film clip of news stories from that year show President Clinton's arrival, with a profile of his personality. Its November 1995 and Gerry Hagan recalls his camcorder film clip of Bill Clinton shaking Gerry Adams' hand on the Falls Road. Then Laura Lennon of Womens Information Group recalls Hilary Clinton. Then at Mackies Shop Steward Ronnie Lewis recalls introducing Bill Clinton to the workers. Next the Clinton's headed to Derry. Mayoress Carita Kerr recalls their reception at the Guildhall Square. Then 20 years on the 4 people meet at the Europa hotel in Belfast where the Clinton's stayed in 1995. They discuss meeting the Clintons and the effect on their lives. The programme returns to the story later but next news reports from 1979 and a film clip of John De Lorean from 1978 and profile of the deal he did with Labour ministers worth £70 million. David Whittington recalls getting a job in the factory. Then Dick Mulholland recalls his first day and Joe Murray's recollections. Profile of the revolutionary design of the new car in 1981. Thousands produced for the US market for $25,000 each. Alan Hayward recalls how both sides of the community worked there. By Xmas 1981 the US recession had hit and order numbers had dropped. The new Tory government refused any more cash. The workers recall the decline in working hours. In 1982 De Lorean goes bust. The 1985 movie 'Back to the Future' centres around the car as a time travel machine. The car becomes the symbol of all 3 films. The workers recall their joy. Now, 30 years later, they are meeting up for a catch up. Film clip shown. They get to drive a de Lorean car and comment on the experience. Then the programme switches back to the Clinton visit in 1995. This time it focuses on the children he met. Cathy Hart (12) got to switch on the Belfast Xmas lights with B Clinton. She recalls the event and her letter on peace which Hilary read to the choir. Tim Murphy (9), a choirboy recalls the concert and him singing 'Silent Night'. In 1998 the Clinton's returned to NI and the young people recall. Sharon Haughey (17) introduced them in Armagh. In 2003 she worked for Hilary in the USA. In 2012 Sharon became Armagh's Lord Mayor. Back again in 1999 Tom Mcanearny, then aged 5 recalls the event. Then Tomas and Cathy & Sharon discuss their recollections of the visit and view film clips on the city hall big screen.
Ballymurphy Massacre victim Joseph Murphy's body is exhumed in a search for evidence of the bullet that killed him. Film report on his daughter Janet Donnelly's search for the truth. She talks to her father at his grave. Sharon O'Neill explains why the coroner ordered the exhumation. When wounded the army took him to the army base and the family allege that the army then shot him again in the leg in the same wound. The search is for that bullet. Janet recalls that her father lived for 13 days and why she wants the truth. She says that the bullet has been found. Solicitor M O'Connor comments. Forensic tests will follow. Report on bomb alerts in west Belfast and Ballynahinch.
The body of Ballymurphy massacre victim Joseph Murphy will not now be reburied until more test are done on the remains. Film clip shown. Sharon O'Neill comments on the finding of a bullet in his remains. His daughter Janet Donnelly explains what the family wants done now regarding the bullet wound area. The coroner acknowledged that more clarity is needed on what was found yesterday. Then Janet Donnelly explains why her father won't be reburied yet. Then in the studio more analysis from Sharon O'Neill on what happens now. At Stormont SF's Martin McGuinness says that a deal could be reached within days. Film report from T Magee and his press conference and what he said about the challenges ahead. Then DUP's A Foster's upbeat comments on a deal. Also today Emma Little-Pengelly, a co-opted DUP MLA has been promoted to junior Minister. T Magee outlines her career so far and criticism from the TUV over a £40,000 severance pay award she received. Emma Pengelly comments on this. In courts Coalisland man Paul Campbell is charged with a bomb attack by the IRA on the RUC station in the town in 1997 where the SAS shot one of the bombers and DNA evidence in today's court case.
In this series TV journalists and newspaper reporters recall incidents during the troubles that they reported on and give their reactions and how it affected them. In the series as a whole major events over the course of 40 years are covered. Tonight's episode begins with quick comments from tonights contributors, then Brian Rowan recalls how he came to be a journalist in the mid-1980s. He recalls his first stories and running from one report on violence to the next one, often murders on the same day. He calls it horrific abnormality. Then Jim McDowell describes what he saw whilst doing his job. The human tragedy. He recalls going to the home of one murder victim to ask for a photo. In February 1997John Irvine covered the PIRA killing of British Soldier Private Restorick in south Armagh and then later the SAS arrest of the suspects. He describes his contacts with the army. Then he goes on to talk about the 'non-troubles' tragedies like the death of 3 children in a drink-driving accident on the Ards peninsula. Film clip of interview is shown. Then journalists recall bomb warnings. In 1992 Noel Doran recalls a republican feud between IPLO and the PIRA where there were between 60 and 70 incidents in the one day. Then Ed Curran recalls November 1993 where he met the Irish PM Albert Reynolds in Dublin, just as NI played the RoI in a soccer match. He recalls explaining northern unionists opinions to B Ahern and the hatred shown at the Windsor Park match towards the southern footballers. Then Jim McDowell recalls another example of hatred at a football match in June 1993 when the UVF killed 6 people who were watching a RoI match in a pub in Loughinisland, Co Down. He recalls the 'veil' of sorrow over the village. The Eric Henderson recalls going to a bereaved families home to ask for background information. The widow could't speak. He says he would never do it again. Then Brian Rowan talks about the dangers of meeting paramilitaries. He says it's the troubles moments that people don't see. Then he describes the loyalist killing of two Catholics at a council depot in Turf Lodge and he went to a local house to use the phone to file his report but he didn't realise that the house was the home of one of the murder victims. Next from 1993 Noel Doran recalls the 'Stop the Killings' campaign and the level of violence at that time. He recalls the trade union rallies for peace and the 'phone in for peace' campaign which received half a million calls. 100,000 attended a rally for peace at the city hall. Finally the programme previews next week which includes the Shankill bomb. Series is narrated by Dennis Tuohy.
DUP's Peter Robinson says the local parties have 10 days to get a Stormont deal done or the whole process ends. Film report from T Magee with Robinson's 'end game' comments. He also says the British Prime Minister David Cameron has a role to play in solving the welfare reform issue in NI. He also took a swipe at whingers and snipers. In his reaction the UUP's M Nesbitt assumed he was talking about him. He said he is happy to be attacked by the DUP and Sinn Fein because it means the Peter and martin are back in each other's arms politically. T Magee says that dealing with the past is proving a difficulty and caused a row at this morning's round table talks with SF & SDLP rejecting the British government's draft proposal's for setting up structures for dealing with the past. SF's Gerry Kelly explains their views. Then QUB Professor Kieran McEvoy says it is about the British government's use of 'national security' restrictions in their provision of evidence. Then NI Secretary T Villiers statement saying that difficult issues remain and that there is very little time left. T T Magee's final remarks. Back in the studio UTV political editor Ken Reid gives his analysis of the chance of the talks being successful this week and the chance of input from David Cameron.
Presented by Tara Mills she asks the question 'what's the real story behind the Stormont talks situation?' with mention of deadlines and 'end games' this past week. Is there progress being made? Are the SDLP, UUP and Alliance just 'Outsiders'. Also tonight, has the DUP's decision to resume their ministerial duties after the paramilitary report upset their grass-roots supporters? The Tara Mills looks back at the insults being traded this week at Stormont for clues on who is making a deal and who is not. First Peter Robinson comments, the M McGuinness then M Nesbitt. Then in the studio she is joined by a panel of politicians. S Hamilton (DUP), A McDonnell (SDLP) and S Farry (Alliance). Both the UUP and SF declined to take part. S Hamilton begins by saying that their aim is to save Stormont and devolution but not at any price. He mentions serious issues like paramilitaries, budget and welfare reform but he believes that people want Stormont to be there to resolve these issues. Tara Mills mentions the change in the DUP's language towards SF from July to now. He admits that there have been difficulties over the recent months, beginning with the murder of Kevin McGuigan and accusations against PIRA. He admits that they have been working with SF and the other parties. A McDonnell says that he feels that a SF/DUP deal is in the offing as they have been talking Behind the scenes. He maintains that the SDLP has made a contribution to improving the situation at Stormont house. On the legacy issue he says that the current British Government legislation on the issue is very weak and flawed and not fit for purpose and will not provide truth and justice for victims and survivors because anything contentious is protected by a 'national 'security' clause. To work properly the Historical Investigation Unit (HIU) needs independence. Then S Farry (Alliance) outlines their situation regarding any SF/DUP deal. For them it is not just a matter of 'saving' Stormont but of a whole new system at Stormont. He accuses M Nesbitt of being disruptive over the last few months and shows little sign of principle with his remarks about paramilitaries as he shares a platform with them from time to time. Then T Mills asks S Hamilton for details of the financial deal that he thinks will help solve welfare reform but he doesn't give specific details. Then A McDonnell criticizes the DUP's 'hokey cokey' over the last few months and goes on to criticize the outworking of welfare reform, which he says needs fine tuned and not a 'slash and burn' welfare reform. S Farry defends welfare reform as it is in the Stormont House Agreement. They then give their views on handing welfare reform over to England and argue amongst themselves over the issue of welfare reform. Then A McDonnell says that he is confident of winning the SDLP leadership election. T Mills pushes him on his falling support, which he denies. Next she asks S Hamilton about criticism of the DUP's in/out ministerial policy. Next item is the battle within unionism since the killing of K McGuigan. The UUP walked away from the Executive, the DUP operated an in/out ministerial policy but since the NI Sec's report on paramilitarism the DUP have returned to normal business despite the revelations about the IRA army council. T Mills introduces a report from S Walker examining how the rank and file of unionism view the DUP strategy. It begins with Peter Gibson's views. In 1993 the IRA murdered his father. He voted no in 1998 to the GFA and backed the DUP. Now he can't understand why they have gone back into government. He says that they have sold out. Then Prof Jon Tonge says that there is bewilderment within the DUP as to why they have gone back into the Executive. He says that the UUP are offering clarity. Film of 1999, and D Trimble facing criticism for going into government with SF without decommissioning. Film of DUP's Ruth Patterson's comments then and now. Then A Foster defends their in/out policy. Both argue their positions then S Walker comments. Back in the studio T Mills is joined by Denis Bradley and QUB Prof John Brewer to discuss the current impasse in dealing with legacy issues and the British government's determination to control everything through a national security clause on what is revealed. D Bradley says it is completely unnecessary due to the Euro Convention on Human Rights giving protection. He upholds the SDLP position that the British government cannot be more important than the unionist or republican people. Prof Brewer says we are driving the peace process forward by only looking in the rear view mirror. We need to set the past in the context of the future. He says it must be built on trust and no one party can be in charge of what is disclosed. Both then give their views on the impasse and what the role of republicans should be. Then commentators Alex Kane and Paul McFadden give their views on a possible SF/DUP deal, M Nesbitt's position and A McDonnell's leadership position.
Forty years on the family of Disappeared Columba McVeigh have appealed to his IRA killers to reveal where his body lies and the family's torment. Film report with his brother Oliver's comments. He reads Columba's last letter sent to his mother and the history of the case to date. The last search was in 2013. 12 of the disappeared have been recovered. Then John Hill of the Disappeared commission comments. At Derry's Ebrington Square last 100 Protestant and Catholic clashed in a pre-arranged fight. Film report with DUP MLA Gary Middleton's reaction.
Mon 2nd Nov 2015
Headlines then Stormont MLAs vote for gay marriage but a DUP petition of concern means that it will not be law. Film report with political reaction to today's vote. Amnesty International's Patrick Corrigan comments. Speech clips from the UUP's A Allen, DUP's G Lyons, Alliance's T Lunn. The vote was passed by one vote. SDLP's Colm Eastwood's view, then SF's C Ruane and John O'Doherty from the Rainbow Project. Then analysis from Ken Reid on the result. The families of the Disappeared gathered at Stormont for their 9th annual silent walk. Film report from Judith Hill. 4 bodies have still to be found. The bodies recovered last year were B Megraw last November, and earlier this year Seamus Wright and Kevin McKee. His sister Philomena comments, then John Hill from the commission for the Disappeared comments.
The Enniskillen Bomb
After a short introduction explaining what this series is about today's subject is introduced. The 1987 Enniskillen bombing by the PIRA and the story of Steven Ross who was seriously injured and his rescuer Tommy Hollowell. Also in tonight's programme film of Cassius Clay's visit to Ireland and the men that met him re-unite. Then news headlines from 1987 shown and remembrance day across the UK, then S Ross & T Hollowell recall travelling to Enniskillen service, and the bomb going off. Film clip of the aftermath shown as people try to rescue the survivors. T Hollowell recalls finding S Ross under the rubble. S Ross recalls his injuries and film clip is shown of him in hospital. 11 were killed and 63 more were seriously injured. Steven describes the worldwide support that he received. In 1994 he went to England and is married with 4 children. A meeting between him and his rescuer T hollowell is arranged. He hasn't met him since the rescue. Film of their meeting shown. They examine photos from the day. Then Rev David Cupples is shown in 1987 of him reading out the names of dead congregation members. He recalls the occasion and helping Steven, with Tommy, meets the Rev Cupples to discuss how the bomb affected them. Then both men commented on how they enjoyed meeting up again. Then in part 2 news headlines from 1972 when Cassius Clay/Muhammed Ali visits Dublin. The programme reviews his early career and the boxers who met him recall their impression of the greatest boxer they had ever seen. Old film clips of Cassius Clay are shown, including a live interview with M O'Carroll. Then the programme returns to the Enniskillen bombing and S Ross meets up with the other injured from that day, including Serenna Doherty and Stephen Gault. Both tell their stories from that day, with film clips and news reports shown. The survivors reunite and share their experiences. They are joined by Daphy Stevenson, another injured. They describe how they are coping and Serenna talks about her survivor guilt. They discuss the absence of any convictions for the bombing. They revisit the bomb site and comment on the experience of meeting up.
Nurses on the Frontline
The documentary focuses on the nurses in NI who, during the troubles, treated the wounded and the dying from all backgrounds without question or favour. The programme features WAVE injured Mark Kelly & Jenny McNern, WAVE CEO Jean Orr, M Moutray & Sandra Peake. The programme begins with a vox pop of the nurse contributors on their views of their job. Then after the opening titles Martelle McParland discusses becoming a nurse, as does Orla McAlinden, Marianne Moutray, Lorna Finlay, Clare Smyth, Vera Poots, Jean Garland. Margaret Kelly recalls the strict regime that nurses worked under. Many recall Belfast as a war zone and the sound of gunfire. Margaret Graham recalls the bombing of the Red Lion. Horace Reid recalls nurses dealing for the first time with people with their legs blown off. Film clip of emergency room shown. It was a sight young 18 year olds weren't prepared for but they all dealt with it. Then some of the nurses recall the funnier side of working in the hospitals. Eleanor Hayes recalls Dr Gray sewing up a loyalist paramilitary who had been stabbed in his King Billy tattoo and not distorting the tattoo. Violence was an everyday occurrence and the nurses dealt with its results. Anne Grant recalls the smell, sorting the possessions, then M Moutray recalls sitting with patients who didn't have long to live. Then Margaret Graham recalls doing the same for an injured black soldier, just making him feel that he wasn't alone. Another recalls her first scrub and the wounded soldier dying on the operating table. Film clip of A&E shown as nurses describe the daily scene with the injured and panicking relatives. She recalls keeping injured suspects clothes for forensics. Sandra Peake recalls treating a young wounded soldier who was the same age as herself. As a student she had to carry his amputated leg out of the theatre. For the nurses there was an emotional price to pay for their job and they all supported each other. There was no medical counselling. Annie Courtney explains. Various nurses comment on how they dealt with the stress. Counselling wasn't available for patients either, often with long term consequences. Sandra Peake explains the ongoing impact on them today. Then Horace Reid talks about Mark Kelly. Newspaper clip of Mark is shown, and his case of 40 years of trouble, marriage breakdown because he got no counselling help. Then interview with Mark Kelly, a double amputee after a 1976 pub bombing in Glengormley. He discusses his case with Horace Reid and their hospital conversations. Mark praises nurses' and doctors' work with patients. For the nurses the hospital was a neutral space and not one of judgement but care. M Moutray and others recall having injured paramilitaries and victims in the same ward. Often opposing paramilitaries would be in the same ward and one nurse recalls the banter between them. Film clip of wards shown. The interviewed nurses comment on dealing with these tricky situations and Sandra Peake nursing a blinded man who was a paramilitary and reading the paper to him but left out reading about what he had done. M Moutray recalls such cases as a difficult road to travel. The idea of hospitals as a sanctuary came under threat during the troubles. Film clip shows armed soldiers guarding injured colleagues. Horace Reid describes the political geography around the RVH and the war outside the RVH doors. He says that 6 people were shot dead within the hospital grounds, four by the PIRA and two by the army. Then nurses recall gun battles in the grounds that they witnessed. They recall that it was 'normal enough'. Then Clare Smyth describes the situation at the Mater hospital in north Belfast, also on the frontline. A consultant's son was killed and he himself injured, SF's Maire Drumm was shot dead in her hospital bed. Film of Mater shown and news report on the Drumm killing. Clare Smyth describes the scene and her trauma. Beyond hospitals nurses found new and unexpected challenges. Kate Slevin recalls community placements, with others. They recall hooded men and crossfire as they did their housecalls. Film of Bombay St fire and Kate Slevin comments. News report shown and a nurse recalls supervising the night shelters after Bombay Street and the problems she faced. Another recalls a soldier losing control in a lift in Divis Tower when the lift jammed. John Williams then recalls the horrific punishment shootings of teenage boys. Film clip of injured patients shown with other nurses stories about these incidents, some resulting in serious injuries. Attracta Bradley recalls a man being shot as the ambulance pulled up. The year 1972 claimed more lives than any other starting with Bloody Sunday. Attracta Bradley calls it the saddest day of her life. Ursula Clifford recalls that day and what she witnessed. Film clip shown. She covered the bodies with blankets. She describes the scene in casualty. 4/3/1972 the Abercorn bomb. Noelle Gormley recalls the casualties arriving. A lot of amputees. Norma Grindle describes the scene, the screams in the ambulances of injured girls. An RVH radiographer was killed. Then WAVE's Jean Orr describes Bloody Friday 31/7/1972. Film clip shown. She recalls RVH casualty scene with body parts on trollies. She describes her anger. Next nurse in intensive care recalls having to tell a patient she had lost both legs and an arm. Then double amputee from the Abercorn Jenny McNern is interviewed about her experience in the RVH, and the reality about her injuries setting in and finding out that her sister Rosaleen had lost both legs and an arm from her mother. Over the years nurses cared for hundreds of patients but there are some they can't forget. M Moutray comments as do other nurses including Kathleen Gallagher and a nurse who recalls a young boy being shot on the Ormeau Road who died. Margaret McCann recalls an injured soldier lying on a trolley beside a dead one. K Gallagher carries a photo from the press of two RUC men who were died after being shot in Derry on her shift. Then Horace Reid recalls on night shift a young girl dying from her gunshot wounds and his reaction. Lorna Liggett recalls recalls witnessing her first death, that of a baby. Her worst experience, she says. She carried the baby to the morgue. M Moutray recalls a (missing) with a head coming to the hospital. The young man had been making a bomb when it went off. She describes his mother's cry when she saw her son. The young man lived. Since the ceasefires and the peace process things are a lot better but for some survivors the past is still the present today. Psychiatric nurse Sean Collins talks about PTSD which time doesn't heal. News clip of the August 1998 Omagh bomb shown. Sean Collins describes the hospital scene on that day. He comments on the 'ripple effect' of one person's death or injury on the rest of the family. His enduring image of that day is of the cleaner constantly mopping up blood in the corridor. All the contributor nurses express pride in their work and the sense of satisfaction that they helped people, and that they were able to cope with such horror.
Wed 4th Nov 2015
Headlines then an expert who worked on the Kosovo graves has been brought in by the coroner to examine the exhumed remains of Ballymurphy massacre victim J Murphy who was shot dead by the Paras. Film report from S O'Neill with J Murphy's daughter Janet Donnelly's reaction. Forensics expert named as Prof Sue Black. Solicitor Mark O'Connor comments
Thu 5th Nov 2015
HM Prison Inspectors say Maghaberry prison is unsafe, dangerous and Dickensian. Film report report with comments of inspectors Nick Hardwick and Brendan McGuigan at their press conference. List of serious failing given after May's surprise inspection and they call on politicians to support reform. A follow-up inspection will take place in January. In a further report from Marc Mallett gives reaction from Finlay Spratt of the Prison Officers Association (POA) who calls on the NI Justice Minister David Ford (Alliance) to resign. Then the prison ombudsman Tom McGonigle gives his opinion on prisoners' human rights failings. Then at Stormont Alastair Ross (DUP) gives his reaction, the SF's Raymond McCartney. Back in the studio Paul Clark interviews David Ford and puts it to him that this is his fault. David Ford says that the report is accurate and uncomfortable but that it his job to implement the report's recommendations. The 'buck' stops with him but it is not entirely his fault in every respect as there are resources issues. He denies that he has shown a lack of leadership and lists why he believes that. He says that the POA isn't an entirely impartial body and he talks about prisons here moving from the troubles era and being reformed. He has confidence in the new Maghaberry leadership. He says that whether he resigns or not is up to others to decide. In the courts families are looking an outside police force to investigate the Stakeknife (Scappaticci) murders have claimed that he was allowed to kill by his RUC/army handlers to enhance his position within the PIRA. Film report from S O'Neill with an interview with Frank Mulhearn, whose son was killed by PIRA. Then Shauna Moreland whose mother was killed by PIRA in 1994. 3 strands of this civil action are explained. Resources are an issue, then solicitor Kevin Winters comments. Case is adjourned for 4 weeks. The Orange Order has branded a painting which links them with the KKK as offensive. Film report on Ulster Museum painting by Joseph McWilliams with Orange Order education officer David Scott's reaction. Then Denise Ferran of the Royal Ulster Academy says that they won't be taking the painting down and explains why. Followed by a vox pop of visitors at the museum.
Series were journalists and reporters who worked in NI during the troubles talk of their experiences and memories of the incidents the covered. After an opening vox pop of the contributors and troubles film clip and opening titles they begin with film of Greysteel aftermath in October 1993. Then Deric Henderson of the Press Association recalls the levels of violence at that time and the failed political initiatives. He says for journalists Belfast was an exciting place but for ordinary people it was a horrible place to live, but nothing compared to 1993 with the Shankill bomb and Greysteel when they were only murdering for murders sake. Brian Rowan recalls the Shankill bomb at Frizells fish shop below the UDA HQ. Film clip of the 21/10/1993 shown of the aftermath and Brian Rowan recalls the UDA/UFF statement saying that nationalists will pay a heavy price. Then Eamon Maillie comments on how far we have come since then. Then B Rowan recalls an RUC man who helped rescue the injured interviewed on what he saw and the effect on society of all this violence. Then film clip of Alan McBride, who wife was killed in the bombing at the Garden of Remembrance and B Rowan recalls an event that he and Alan spoke at and the mothers of two men who died on their own, not in mass murders, were pleased that he recalled their murders and remembered them. Then film from Ardoyne from 27/10/1993 of the funeral of Shankill bomber Thomas Begley with G Adams carrying the coffin. The D Henderson says that a senior republican told him at the funeral that this was all coming to an end and things are happening. D Henderson was optimistic about the chances of a ceasefire after this. The NIO had always denied the existence of a 'back channel' of communication with the PIRA but in 1993 Eamon Maillie exposed its existence. He recalls how he cracked the story and the DUP's Rev W McCrea's role. Arising from this NI Secretary Patrick Mayhew tendered his resignation. Later Mayhew shook Maillie's hand. Then, after the break, a film clip shows armed IRA men in south Armagh. Brian Rowan recalls July 1992 and the IRA killing 3 of its own men Dignam, Starrs and Burns for being informers and murdering Margaret Perry. He found the bodies in south Armagh. The next day he got a call from the PIRA to go to west Belfast. When he got there Eamon Maillie was also there. Both men describe being blindfolded, put in to a car, taken to a house and searched, then given a long sheet of toilet paper with the IRA statement written on it regarding the 3 executions, then driven back. B Rowan gives his analysis of the event, and the process back then of reporting on the conflict. Then film of armed loyalist paramilitaries shown and B Rowan recalls going to see the UFF's Johnny Adair after a shooting incident near his home. He describes his nervousness and checking that the call was genuine, then he describes the security at Adair's home, and how he felt more comfortable when such events were over. He said that if he had heard of any threats to anyone in these meetings he would have told the police. He recalls difficulty interpreting these events. Silences and the words of masked men, what was being said and not said. In August 1994 the possibility of an IRA ceasefire was in the air. On 19/8/94 Eamon Maillie recalls meeting senior IRA members to get information. They told him not to leave the country for the next few weeks. A wink was as good as a nod Maillie says. Then preview of the next programme and the PIRA ceasefire and loyalist response and peace rallies.
Mark Carruthers tonight tries to find out just how far away a political agreement is at the Stormont talks as NI Secretary T Villiers says that an agreement next week is possible and Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan says it possible but not probable. Another discussion on tonight's programme is how NI should handle next year's significant republican and unionist commemorations. Also tonight a discussion on Petition of concern and how it is being used at Stormont. First, Mark Carruthers interviews NI Secretary T Villiers on the current Stormont House Agreement mark2 talks and the chance of success as she sees it. She says that next week is crucial and that some of the gaps between the parties are closing but she gives no details. She says all 5 parties involved in the talks want to 'make this place work'. She also says success is possible, but won't say probable. On the issue of national security she says that it is a very difficult issue and a solution doesn't look easy to achieve here. She says that it is the British governments responsibility to protect national security and if they depart from that they would be giving assistance to terrorists around the world. She would like to progress all of the issues rather than make a deal without this one. Her goal is for a 5 party agreement and she is asked if she would proceed if only the DUP & SF agreed a deal. She says that she is realistic about the talks but is hopeful. She is questioned on the NI economy and the recent job losses here at Michelin and says there is economy recovery across the UK & NI, and mentions Wrightbus in Ballymena. She denies NI is a 'place apart' as the CofE Archbishop of Canterbury said. She mentions devolution of corporation tax and says that the Michelin factory wasn't competitive. She says she's being realistic. She praises the 1988 GFA where bitter enemies came together for the common good and NI leaders now need to find a way forward for the Executive to keep working for the people of NI. She says that without a budget and an agreement on welfare reform we don't have workable institutions and will be heading for a period of suspension and direct rule which she says would be a serious political setback. Next Mark Carruthers reminds that next year, 2016, will see the anniversaries of the Somme and also the Easter Rising. He introduces a Chris Page film report which examines how the past still echoes in the present, and how next year our history will feel particularly close. Historian Dr Eamon Phoenix explains the significance of the events and coming to terms with the events. Murals on the Shankill & Falls roads profiled. Author Ruth Tallon comments on the radical socialism of the 1920s & 1930s and Winifred Carney's marriage to George McBride. Tom Hartley outlines what he would want unionists to be involved in with Rising commemorations, the PUP's Billy Hutchinson's views on interactions at 1916 ceremonies. Then the other parties views on ceremonies. UUP leader M Nesbitt says he will go to Dublin to honour the British soldiers that died in the Rising. Next item for profile by M Carruthers is the use of the petition of concern at Stormont by the political parties. C Eastwood's remarks at Stormont on Monday during the debate on same sex marriage, then SF's Phil Flanagan's views, then DUP's A Foster. The DUP vetoed the passing of a same sex marriage bill. In the studio Green Party MLA Stephen Agnew and QUB's Dr Alex Schwarz discuss how the petition of concern has been used by the political parties at Stormont and its possible misuse on social issues and why is there a petition of concern at all and do we need to fix it, or limit its use. Dr Schwartz outlines his ideas for fixing it. S Agnew also gives his views on the current Stormont talks. Then M Carruthers talks to tonight's commentators about their reactions to T Villiers comments about the Stormont talks, and the chances of a deal and her negative view. They found it unsettling and felt it only really matters if SF/DUP/Alliance agree the deal. Then they comment on the UUP holding an event in Dublin for dead British troops. They worry if it's seen as a competing event. Next item they discuss is Joe McWilliams painting in the Ulster Museum showing some Orangemen wearing KKK hoodsand the political reaction to it from unionists. Film ends with a film clip showing Cáral Ní Chuilin's clashes in Stormont.
Sun 8th Nov 2015
In Enniskillen the Irish PM Enda Kenny laid a Remembrance Day laurel wreath at the Cenotaph while in Belfast the Foreign Affairs minister Charlie Flanagan laid a wreath at the City Hall Cenotaph. Film report on both events then Enda Kenny's comments on the current Stormont talks with a deal looking likely within days. Tomorrow he meets British Prime Minister David Cameron in London. In Belfast the NI Secretary T Villiers was more cautious about the talks, then the DUP's A Foster is optimistic. A British soldier injured in the 1988 Ballygawley bus bombing, James Leatherbarrow is reunited with a woman that came to his aid at a ceremony. 8 British soldiers were killed in the attack. J Leatherbarrow comments the Grace Curry's recollections.
Mon 9th Nov 2015
Speculation continues that the political talks will be successful as Irish PM Enda Kenny meets British PM David Cameron the Peter Robinson (DUP) and Martin McGuinness (SF). Film report from T Magee with Enda Kenny's comments in London and T Magee's analysis of the outstanding issues to be agreed. Then, speaking after round table talks the SDLP's A McDonnell was cautious. In the Stormont chamber SF's M McGuinness answers questions from the UUP's D Kennedy on the recent report into paramilitary groups. Then T Magee's analysis of events followed by political editor Ken Reid's view on the talks and the outstanding problem issues.
A former British Army Paratrooper (66) has been arrested at his Co Antrim home by the PSNI squad investigating Bloody Sunday. Film report from Vincent Kearney reviews the history behind the PSNI Inquiry with old film clips. The Para arrested was referred to as 'Soldier J' in the Bloody Sunday inquiry and he is being questioned about the murder of John Young (17), M McDaid (20) and William Nash (19). The soldier is also alleged to have shot William Nash's father, Alexander who was badly injured. William Nash's sister Kate Nash welcomed the arrest in her comments. Meanwhile another British soldier, Dennis Hutchings, is to be charged with the 1974 murder of John Pat Cunningham (27) at Benburb, Co Tyrone. Film report reviews the history of the case and the 2013 decision by DPP B McGrory to re-open the case. JP Cunninham died of his injuries. Two soldiers shot him. The other soldier has since died so it is an attempted nurder charge because it is impossible to say which bullet killed him. At the Stormont talks there are contrasting views of what is currently happening between NI Secretary T Villiers and DUP's Peter Robinson and SF's Martin McGuinness. Film report with political editor Mark Devenport's analysis of the situation using film clips of T Villiers comments and the optimistic views of Robinson & McGuinness' comments at Stormont Castle. Then the UUP's M Nesbitt raises questions about the funding of any deal. Former UKIP member Henry Reilly has been expelled from the party and has joined the TUV. He was critical of UKIP's support for the Good Friday Agreement. Film report with interview.
Its 30 years since the Anglo-Irish Aggreement. A film report looks back to those days and the angry unionist response to it and asks the question 'did it pave the way for the ending of the troubles?' Judith Hill's report uses film clips from the period around November 1985. Eamon Maillie recalls Jim Molyneaux's belief that Thatcher wouldn't do a deal with Dublin. Then the Belfast Telegraph's Liam Clarke recalls the angry unionist response and the damage done to relations between unionists and the British government. Then the DUP's N Dodds recalls those times and profiles what unionists objected to in the accord. Film of Paisley's City Hall rally and his 'Never!Never!Never!' speech. Then the UUP's M McGimpsey outlines their deal of the view back then and the chilling of UUP/British government relations. Then Ken Bloomfield, former Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, recalls an assault on NI Secretary Tom King at City Hall. Former SDLP leader Seamus Mallon describes the SDLP view of the agreement that it ended the unionist veto. Then Eamon Maillie & Liam Clarke give a positive assessment of the accord. Decades on progress has been made but the current Stormont talks the old divisions still remain. Then in the studio Paul Clark interviews former NI Secretary Tom King about his recollections of those times. He describes unionist anger as they felt that they hadn't been consulted. His judgement is that the agreement was the gradual start of the peace process. He explains why unionists were kept in the dark and the SDLP were briefed by the Dublin government. He was just in the job as NI Secretary and defends his position. He recalls M Thatcher's lack of support in later years and comments on the current Stormont talks. Also in the studio is the commentator Alex Kane who supports Tom King's analysis that it was the beginning of the peace process but he said that unionist knew in March of 1985 that something was happening between London and Dublin. Then historian Eamon Phoenix says nationalists saw it as a step forward. They discuss why unionists weren't informed but John Hume was by the Dublin government. Molyneaux is accused of making a grave mistake. Both agree that the union is safe today. Next report is from Stormont after a Remembrance service where unionists sang 'God Save the Queen' which wasn't scheduled to be sung as SF MLAs were at the event. Film report from the Great Hall at Stormont where SF Speaker Mitchel McLaughlin led the event for the first time. Then TUV Press Officer Sammy Morrison explains why he started the singing of the anthem. Then SF Culture Minister Carál Ní Chuilin calls it disrespectful and a stunt. Then Alliance Justice Minister calls the TUV actions unfortunate. The SDLP's A Magennis called it an ambush and said it was designed to bully and intimidate. Then UUP's Mike Nesbitt's view that people should be notified if the anthem is going to be sung. The Dup's Peter Weir has no problem with the anthem being sung as it is normally part of the protocol. Back in the studio Paul Clark interviews political editor Ken Reid about the fallout from the events at the Remembrance event within Stormont as the political talks continue. The paratrooper arrested by the PSNI investigating the Bloody Sunday murders has been released on bail. In Dungiven a security alert around a bomb scare continues. Film report with SF's Cathal O hOisin's reaction. In the next Report from City Hall SF Lord Mayor Arder Carson led the Remembrance service. Film report with his comments on his attendance and the views of the DUP's Guy Spence, RAF veteran Bob Brooks and British Legion's Mervyn Elder.
Thu 12th Nov 2015
Headlines, then the Police Ombudsman has said that there is no evidence that PSNI officers failed to intervene to stop a sectarian attack that killed Catholic man Kevin McDaid in Coleraine in 2009. Film report with comments of Ombudsman Michael Maguire, then SDLP's John Dallat's reaction. Last year 4 men were jailed for the attack. A north/south government meeting tomorrow has been postponed so that inter party talks can continue at Stormont. Mark Devenport reports on the possibility of a deal with Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan's views. The British Legion has said that the singing of the anthem is not compulsory at Remembrance events. Film report examines yesterday's controversy at the Remembrance event in Stormont led by the SF Speaker Mitchel McLaughlin with reaction from SDLP's A Magennis, the UUP's Doug's Beattie's views then the British Legion's statement. Then TUV's Sammy Morrison says he has no regrets about singing.
Series 4; Part 5
Journalists recall troubles events that they reported on. After a vox pop of the contributors and the opening titles a fil clip shows PIRA volunteers firing a volley of shots over a photo of the Gibraltar 3. Then Brian Rowan and Eamon Maillie recall the events leading to them receiving the August 14th PIRA ceasefire statement from P O'Neill, just a codename used by the PIRA. This time it was a female who read the statement. E Maillie says Nelson Mandela told Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness that with a ceasefire anything is possible, and he says that that is what happened here. Then the Belfast Telegraph's Ed Curran says he remembers running the ceasefire story with the headline 'it's over'. Then in October 1994 loyalists call a ceasefire. Brian Rowan and Ivan Little recall getting the Combined Loyalist Military Command statementand Gusty Spence's role that day before the public press conference. Film clip shown of Gusty Spence's announcement. Then in February 1996 the IRA bomb Canary Wharf and end their ceasefire, killing two people and causing £100m of damage. Ed Curran recalls his reaction where he was at a journalist's award ceremony. UTV news clip shown. Gordon Burns remembers his anguish and contacting the Women Together Movement to organize peace rallies. On 25th February there were peace rallies in Belfast, Derry, Dublin, Cork and Limerick. After Ads the role of US President Bill Clinton 7is profiled from his November 1995 visit. Eamon Holmes comments of the November 30th 1995 City Hall rally with Clinton. !00,000 people attended. Film clip of Clinton's comments and Eamon Holmes recalls being tackled by the US Secret Service. Then Alf McCleary recalls Clinton's visit to QUB that evening. Then John Irvine comments on Clinton's visit changing the image of NI, and Clinton's polished PR performances. Then Gavin Esler, who was based in Washington, recalls getting to know US Senator George Mitchell and talking to him about how he handled the Good Friday agreement peace talks. He recalls his optimism about the peace process. Then preview of the next programme. Garvaghy Road, Portadown and the Rosemary Nelson Murder.
Presented by Mark Carruthers, the programme begins with him interviewing separately. The Two candidates standing in tomorrow's SDLP leadership contest. The current leader Alastair McDonnell and his challenger Colm Eastwood, but before that a film report from Gareth Gordon looks at how McDonalds election as leader and someone turn of the lights remark at his victory speech. Then Cllr Roisin Lynch defends his record on renewing the party. Then profile of the SDLP divisions in West Tyrone where McDonnell's new boy Daniel McCrossan selection has split the party. D. McCrossan comments on this issue, and defends A. McDonnell, the SDLP Cllr Declan Boyle praises A. McDonnell. Then in the studio M. Carruthers questions Colm Eastwood accusing him of splitting the party 6 months before an election he replies he is getting out a positive view for the party and the country, he says it's been a positive campaign and the candidates have treated each other respectively and they can move forward together after this selection with SDLP down to 10% in polls, he has had to take up this challenge Colm Eastwood defends his experience in the SDLP in Derry, when accused of never having responsibility for anything so far. M. Carruthers then questions his political judgement when he carried the coffin of an INLA man in 2012 at a paramilitary display. C. Eastwood reply's he knew Seamus Coyle very well and was present when he died, he also questioned his prediction that in 2013 A. Attwood would be in a Euro MEP seat. He replies he was projecting a positive image of the party, and that's why he also defended A. McDonnell's leadership in the same show but since then the SDLP have had a couple of bad elections and people want change, he's confident he can get 158 votes from the party's 314 electors panel this weekend and then begin to unite the SDLP. Then a second film report from Gareth Gordon profiles the views of C. Eastwood who think A. McDonnell's time has run out, firstly young activist Gerard McDonald's views. Then Lurgan SDLP Cllr Joe Nelson's views on declining election results and in the West, Tyrone SDLP Cllr Patsy Kelly supports C. Eastwood and explains why. In the studio, M. Carruthers asks A. McDonnell why he needs more time when he has already had two elections to show his leadership works; he denies it's time to go. Since 2011 he has recruited new members and held its 100,000 votes except for Euro election, and his personal Westminster vote in South Belfast went down. He will stick with his renewal plans and claims an internal party poll highlighting future loses can be used to pick up votes, on M. Durkan, B. Rodgers and S. Mallon supporting C. Eastwood, he says they were powerful 20 years ago but they only get 1 vote each. He says maybe he should have been harsher and chucked some people out of the party for indiscipline. He says; C. Eastwood is part of the party's future, but he intends on finishing his party's renewal programme and he says the majority of the party is backing him. A. McDonald says he isn't looking re-election and intends to stand down in two years. Whatever the result he will aiming to move the SDLP from strength to strength. He then comments on possibility of a Stormont talks deal being done tomorrow and the SDLP contribution to date. He wants a 5 party deal. Next M. Carruthers introduces a film report reviewing the unscheduled singing of the national anthem at a Stormont Remembrance day ceremony, chaired by Sinn Fein's M. McLaughlin and attended by Sinn Fein ministers, with UUP M. Nesbitt's reaction. Calling it an 'ambush' then Sinn Fein's C. N Chuilin's reaction. Then in the studio M. Carruther's interviews the TUV's Sam Morrison who stated the anthem singing and the ind/unionist John McAllister about the event. S. Morrison denies it was a childish, adolescent undergraduate stunt and says he's done what was done at that event every other year and it was only dropped because the party linked to the IRA army council was present. He says it's not progress to say Sinn Fein ministers at the service until they own up to the role in actions like Enniskillen. He asks would the Jews accept the Nazis to a holocaust memorial. Then John McAllister talks about 210,000 Irish men in the Great War and a shared event was correct. He recalls yesterdays shared reflection and his reaction to the singing, used as a tool to make others feel uncomfortable S. Morrison says the act of omitting the anthem pollicised the event, he denies it was he who pollicised the service. S. Morrison says he would do it again. Then Commentator's N. Emerson and Patricia McBride give their views on the SDLP Candidates' campaigns and what they stand for, is there an urban/rural Belfast/Derry split? Then they discuss the possibility of a Stormont house talks deal being done tomorrow. Programme ends with film clip of MLA's being friendly to each other for a change. (Thursday)
Fri 13th Nov 2015
The DUP say there will be a Stormont House deal but maybe not a comprehensive agreement. Film report from Steven Walker at Stormont as talks continue, the problem seems to be over the issue of National Security, DUPS' Simon Hamilton comments on the current situation. Next report is about the controversy over the singing of the National Anthem at the Stormont armistice day event chaired by Sinn Fein speaker Mitchell McLaughlin he has written to MLA's to explain why he didn't include the anthem in the service, film report from Will Leitch, the speaker wanted to make the ceremony inclusive to all, details of his letter shown. Next report is from Gareth Gordon at the SDLP conference in Armagh and profiles the leadership contest between C. Eastwood and A. McDonnell, as voting begins today, comments of D. McCrossan Gerard McDonnell from opposing camps and the two candidates. Near Dungiven a security operation goes into its third day, film report Maria Cahill has been proposed as a candidate for the Irish senate by the Irish Labour Party. In a report Mark Simpson looks back to the signing of the Irish Anglo agreement 30 years ago using old film clips. Former Tánaiste Dick Spring says the accord should be celebrated as it led onto bigger and better things, then DUP's Jim Wells comments after looking back at old footage of him protesting in 1985, he says a source in the NIO would phone him every night and give him details of where the NIO ministers would be the next day, so they could protest at their events. Then clip of Sinn Fein's D. Morrison shown in 1925 and then he comments now about the agreement. (6:30pm Friday)
Sat 14th Nov 2015
SDLP elects Colm Eastwood as its new leader he defeated A. McDonnell for the top job, at their Armagh conference. Film report from Ken Reid, Eastwood won by 172 votes to 133. Fearghal Kinney was elected as deputy leader. (5pm Saturday)
Mon 16th Nov 2015
In Paris the Islamic Terrorist group called ISIS has killed 139 people in shootings and bombings, film report from Mark Simpson in Paris on people's reaction there. 89 people were killed at a rock concert NI man Tom McGeehan works in Paris his friend was shot and wounded at the concert he comments on the attack others were killed at a Paris restaurant, a minutes silence was held today in the city. Then East Belfast women Julie McDonald who lives in Paris gives her reaction. Then NI man Declan McCavana gives his reaction, then former Ardoyne priest Fr. Aidan who now lives in Paris comments on people's reactions. Troops are on the streets of Paris for the next 3 months at least M. Simpson describes the atmosphere now 3 days on from the attacks. Next report from Tara Mills gets the reaction of French people in Belfast, including French chef Oliver Diles who had friends shot in Paris at the Christmas Market. Thomas Tulzy gives his reaction, then Lindon Dean, then the McCavana sisters whose father Declan works in Paris views. Then QUB French Prof. Dr Elodie Fabre comments on the effect on Frances social cohesion. In Belfast Anwar Mady from the Islamic centre condemned the attacks in Paris at Belfast book of condolences were signed. At Stormont local MLA's held a minutes silence and condemned the Paris attacks. Sinn Fein MLA M. O' Meuillior tells MLA's his daughter was near the Cambodian restaurant attacked on Friday. Then DUP's P. Robinson compares it to bombs going off in Belfast city centre and families nervousness waiting for news., then Sinn Fein's M. McGuinness says ISIS are probably people who are beyond negotiations. DUP's D. McIlveen's reaction it was an attack on freedom. Next report covers the election of Colm Eastwood as the new leader of the SDLP, the defeated former leader A. McDonnell says he will support the new leader. Film report with his remarks and then Colm Eastwood talks to M. Davenport about the scale of his victory and his vision for the SDLP and his views on current Stormont talks and possible deal. (6:30pm Monday)