‘Peace at last’: The 1994 Loyalist Ceasefires

‘Peace at last’: The 1994 Loyalist Ceasefires

Author: Belfast Telegraph August 21, 2026 Duration: 28:46

On the 13 October 1994, six weeks after the IRA announced a ‘complete cessation’, the Loyalist paramilitary groups declared their ceasefires.


The UVF’s Gusty Spence announced loyalist violence was over, in a step that is seen as one of the vital steps towards a lasting peace in Northern Ireland. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by former PUP leader Billy Hutchinson, Historian Aaron Edwards, and journalists Allison Morris, Mark Simpson, and Vincent Kearney. 


This episode was originally published in October 2024.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


For a clear-eyed look at the politics and people shaping Northern Ireland, turn to The BelTel. This podcast moves beyond the headlines, offering context and depth on the stories dominating the conversation. Regular voices include seasoned journalists like Allison Morris, Sam McBride, and Suzanne Breen, who bring their sharp analysis and insider perspectives directly to you. Presented by Ciarán Dunbar, the discussions are timely, informed, and grounded in the region's complex reality. New episodes arrive three times a week, each one serving as an essential briefing that investigates pressing issues, debates differing viewpoints, and informs listeners with nuance. It’s a direct line to the heart of the news from those who know it best. This is a production from the Belfast Telegraph, hosted on Acast.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The BelTel
Podcast Episodes
Does Andy Burnham really care about Northern Ireland? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:37
Andy Burnham has officially entered Downing Street, and has shook up the Labour Cabinet. In his maiden speech, the former mayor of Manchester has vowed “take power out of downing street, and carry it into every postcode…
The Orange Order and the Twelfth, how did it come about? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:24
Long associated with the Orange Order, marching bands and bonfires – the Twelfth goes back a long way. But what is the origin of the celebrations, of the order itself and does the organisation have a future? Ciarán Dunba…