Old Tensions: New Ties

Old Tensions: New Ties

Author: BBC Radio Ulster April 1, 2026 Duration: 37:18

Mark Carruthers is joined by Paul Johnston, former British Ambassador to Ireland; Mark Hennessey, The Irish Times; and Brigid Laffan from the European University Institute.


From BBC Radio Ulster, Red Lines offers a direct line into the complex and often turbulent world of Northern Irish politics. This isn't just a dry recap of events; it's where essential analysis meets the distinct character of the region's political discourse. Each episode features the seasoned BBC NI politics team, who provide clarity and context to the negotiations, debates, and personalities shaping the future. You'll hear informed commentary that cuts through the noise, examining the stakes behind the headlines and the human stories within the policy. True to its name, the podcast doesn't shy away from the tough conversations or the so-called red lines that define political standoffs. While the subject matter is serious, the delivery carries a certain local wit-acknowledging the occasional bad pun as it delves into top-tier political coverage. For anyone wanting to understand the forces at play in Northern Ireland's government, this podcast serves as an indispensable guide, making the intricate accessible and the consequential compelling. Tune in for a blend of sharp insight and straightforward talk from journalists who know the landscape inside and out.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Red Lines
Podcast Episodes
Celtic fringe benefits? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:05
What impact might three nationalist first ministers have on UK politics? Mark Carruthers talks to Tom Kelly, Prof Jon Tonge and Prof Ailsa Henderson.
Come on Arlene [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:06
Mark Carruthers is joined by Gareth Gordon, Suzanne Breen and Tim Cairns to reflect on the resignation of DUP Leader Arlene Foster five years ago and the party chaos it caused.
Anglo-Irish Editions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:07
Mark Carruthers is joined by British writers Iain Dale and James Hawe to discuss their views and appreciation for Ireland.
West Winging it [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:08
Mark Carruthers reflects on an eventful St Patrick's Day in Washington with Enda McClafferty, Caitriona Perry, Louise Burne and Liam Kennedy.
Unionists for Unity? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:05
Former UUP deputy leader John Taylor says Irish unification is inevitable. Mark Carruthers discusses his comments with Alex Kane, Linzi McLaren & Wallace Thompson
Stormont on tick [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:44
Mark Carruthers discusses Stormont's financial challenges and the £400 million advance with John Campbell, Jodie Carson and Andrew Webb.
Mrs Little-Pengelly goes to Washington [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:31
Mark Carruthers asks Paul Colgan, Shane Greer and Mark Devenport who they think will travel to Washington this year and just how important the St Patrick's Day access really is.
The Nicola Sturgeon Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:34
Mark Carruthers asks the former First Minister of Scotland about how devolution works best, the independence debate and culture wars.
Does Northern Ireland need Reform? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:26
Will Nigel Farage's Reform UK contest elections in Northern Ireland? Mark Carruthers chats to Suzanne Breen, Ben Lowry, David McCann & Anna Gross
Contest or coronation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:05
Mark Carruthers weighs up the options for the UUP leadership with Gareth Gordon, David McCann, John McCallister and Linzi McLaren.