Suzanne Breen on the ‘DUP Civil War’ - five years on

Suzanne Breen on the ‘DUP Civil War’ - five years on

Author: Belfast Telegraph May 10, 2026 Duration: 38:59

Five years ago, the DUP was in largest party in Northern Ireland, lurched to open civil war. The party had been led by Ian Paisley for 37 years – but an unprecedented outbreak of factional politics saw three different leaders in just 50 days.  

The middle one, Edwin Poots, lasted a total of just 33 days. 


To explain the background to the DUP’s woes and their long-term effect, Ciarán Dunbar joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s political editor, Suzanne Breen 


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: 100

The BelTel
Podcast Episodes
‘Boston Tapes’ Troubles archive ‘closed’ but not forgotten [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:07
It was supposed to be an oral record of the Troubles, made by the paramilitaries, and initially the ‘Boston Tapes’ project seemed like a really good idea, albeit one which would include descriptions of violence and terro…
Noah Donohoe: Jury hears ninth week of evidence [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:15
The jury at the inquest into the death of Noah Donohoe has now heard nine weeks of evidence – the process could last until May. This week they heard more on how police dealt with CCTV footage of the missing teenager and…
Youtuber Stephen McCullagh guilty of murdering of Natalie McNally [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:10
Stephen McCullagh has been found guilty of murdering Lurgan woman Natalie McNally. The jury unanimously convicted 36-year-old McCullagh, of Woodland Gardens in Lisburn, of killing the 32-year-old mother to be in December…
Inside the Gerry Adams landmark £1 IRA court case [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:11
UPDATE: Victims drop High Court claim against Gerry Adams over IRA bombingsFor decades, Gerry Adams has denied being a member of the Provisional IRA. Now, for the first time, that claim is being challenged in an English…