Unionists for Unity?

Unionists for Unity?

Author: BBC Radio Ulster March 4, 2026 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


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: 50

Red Lines
Podcast Episodes
Trump: Orange is the new Green [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:27
Mark Carruthers discusses the recent comments on Irish unity by US President Donald Trump with David Young, Ben Lowry and Diarmaid Ferriter.
The Adrian Dunbar Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:00
Mark Carruthers chats to Line of Duty's Adrian Dunbar about growing up in Northern Ireland and his political influences.
The Kate Nicholl Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:37
Mark Carruthers speaks to Alliance MLA Kate Nicholl about her political influences.
The Martina Anderson Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:47
Mark Carruthers asks former Sinn Féin MEP and IRA member Martina Anderson about her political life and experiences.
The Emma Little-Pengelly Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:37
Mark Carruthers sits down with the deputy First Minister to talk about her political inspirations & influences.
Donaldson's downfall [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:42
Mark Carruthers is joined by Gareth Gordon, Suzanne Breen and Tim Cairns to discuss the disgraced former DUP Leader.
Makerfield Matters? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:39
Will Andy Burnham make it to Downing Street? And what impact might he have on NI? Mark chats to Adam Payne, John Rentoul, Cat Neilan & David McCann
Talking ballots [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:40
Mark Carruthers is joined by Suzanne Breen, David McCann and Jayne McCormick to look ahead to the Assembly election next year.
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.