The Irish Passport

Naomi and Tim dig into the history of Ireland's Economic War, a challenging period for the early Irish state which ended up transforming the country as it shaped its new independence. We hear from someone who lived through that difficult period of the 1930s, when Britain slapped high tariffs on Ireland and the Irish state retaliated in turn. "The English were starving the Irish people that time," were his stark words. Naomi unpicks how her own family story intersects with Ireland's revolutionary history of land ownership, through the tale of the O'Leary family on the Kerry townland of Readrinagh. Naomi and Tim discuss more of the research behind this episode and reveal more secrets from the archives in a bonus debrief now available for supporters over on Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/posts/halfpint-debrief-144460322

Transcribed - Published: 27 November 2025

The famous 'pint of plain' has become one of the most recognisable commercial brands in the world, and is inextricably linked to the Irish pub. In light of a new Netflix series on the Guinness family, this episode dives into the real history of the 'Black stuff', and explores how the brand has reinvented itself time and time again through the miracle of marketing. An extra-content debrief on this episode is available exclusively to Patreon supporters, who also enjoyed early access to this episode. If you want to access our 100+ extra content episodes, you can sign up to support the podcast at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport.

Transcribed - Published: 20 October 2025

Naomi and Tim take a look at the candidates who have put themselves forward for the highest office in the land and consider what the Irish presidency means in the 21st century. We look at the odd nature of presidential office in Ireland, how the role has changed significantly over recent mandates, and why that could potentially lead to a constitutional crisis in the future. Bonus episodes are available for supporters over on www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 19 September 2025

An Irish language rap group has improbably enough become the focus of global media attention and political debate. Why? For describing Israel's actions in Gaza as a genocide and accusing the United States of complicity before an approving crowd at the music festival Coachella. In this episode, Naomi and Tim explain the origins of Kneecap in the movement for Irish language rights, the controversies about the band as its fame grew to ever greater heights, and why it now appears to be becoming a test case for the freedom of cultural figures to speak out about Palestine. A new bonus episode in which Naomi and Tim take questions from listeners about the Irish language and generational trauma is available on patreon.com/theirishpassport You can also listen to our 2020 Halfpint about Kneecap and the politicisation of the Irish language here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/34241066

Transcribed - Published: 5 July 2025

In the grand finale of our Conquest series, Naomi and Tim dig into one of the most notorious episodes of Irish history, starring none other than Oliver Cromwell. We explore his rise to power as a major player in the puritan faction of England's civil war, and how he came to view the task of "pacifying" Ireland both as a way to solidify his support, and as a kind of holy war. Cromwell's actions in Ireland were genocidal. Nevertheless, we discuss how his actions in Ireland continue to be played down among historians in Britain to this day. Naomi and Tim discuss more, including the uncomfortable resonances to current day news, in a bonus debrief episode over on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/posts/halfpint-debrief-130363450 Micheál Ó Siochrú's authorative work on Cromwell, 'God's Executioner', is available here: https://www.faber.co.uk/product/9780571218462-gods-executioner/?srsltid=AfmBOoqKEZw77QejfJJh-6OoFsKDvgeO55jZSaEZMvc665fFaNgx2SPE

Published: 1 June 2025

In the grand finale of our Conquest series, Naomi and Tim dig into one of the most notorious episodes of Irish history, starring none other than Oliver Cromwell. We explore his rise to power as a major player in the puritan faction of England's civil war, and how he came to view the task of "pacifying" Ireland both as a way to solidify his support, and as a kind of holy war. Cromwell's actions in Ireland were genocidal. Nevertheless, we discuss how his actions in Ireland continue to be played down among historians in Britain to this day. Naomi and Tim discuss more, including the uncomfortable resonances to current day news, in a bonus debrief episode over on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/posts/halfpint-debrief-130363450 Micheál Ó Siochrú's authorative work on Cromwell, 'God's Executioner', is available here: https://www.faber.co.uk/product/9780571218462-gods-executioner/?srsltid=AfmBOoqKEZw77QejfJJh-6OoFsKDvgeO55jZSaEZMvc665fFaNgx2SPE

Transcribed - Published: 1 June 2025

Naomi spent months investigating a rogue landlord who built up an empire of rental properties in Ireland backed by family wealth in Luxembourg. In this episode, we tell the story of Marc Godart: his back story, the controversial evictions that brought him to prominence, and the unusual ways he runs his businesses. This is based on reporting by Naomi and her colleagues at the Irish Times that was recently awarded the Mary Raftery Prize for social affairs journalism. The winning story is here: https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2024/01/13/under-the-eye-of-landlord-marc-godart-how-a-tenant-who-objected-to-cctv-surveillance-was-evicted/ You can read more of Naomi's reporting here: https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2024/02/17/working-for-marc-godart-paper-directors-shadow-airbnb-accounts-ruthless-staff-practices/ https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2023/04/15/the-luxembourg-family-behind-an-irish-property-empire/ Bonus episodes are available for supporters over on www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 4 May 2025

In the last 24 hours the global economic order may have transformed forever, as Donald Trump declares crushing tariffs for countries all over the world, not least the European Union. In this hot-off-the-press episode, Naomi explains what this might mean for Ireland and the EU, how the figures add up (or how they don't) and why the reasoning behind these new tariffs has experts all over the world scratching their heads ...

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2025

A very different cultural and political model dominated Irish society prior to the British conquest: Gaelic Ireland. This was a system that prevailed for thousands of years, right back into prehistory, protected by Ireland's geographic isolation. What norms did this society have? What laws, what economic system, in what buildings did people live? Naomi and Tim paint a picture of life in Ireland before the British conquest, in the lost world of Gaelic Ireland. Naomi and Tim continue the discussion and delve into the enduring Gaelic dating practices around Irish horse fairs in a bonus episode now available for Patreon supporters! https://www.patreon.com/posts/halfpint-debrief-123678971

Published: 5 March 2025

A very different cultural and political model dominated Irish society prior to the British conquest: Gaelic Ireland. This was a system that prevailed for thousands of years, right back into prehistory, protected by Ireland's geographic isolation. What norms did this society have? What laws, what economic system, in what buildings did people live? Naomi and Tim paint a picture of life in Ireland before the British conquest, in the lost world of Gaelic Ireland. Naomi and Tim continue the discussion and delve into the enduring Gaelic dating practices around Irish horse fairs in a bonus episode now available for Patreon supporters! https://www.patreon.com/posts/halfpint-debrief-123678971

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2025

Did you know that the United States' border policy and power to deport people was invented to get rid of famine-era immigrants from Ireland? It's a little-known chapter of history that challenges many current day stereotypes in anti-immigrant discourse. Naomi and Tim break it down in this new episode, featuring historian Hidetaka Hirota, whose book on the subject upended much of what was previously thought about the origins of US immigration policy. A surging nativist movement determined to root out the undocumented and deport immigrants deemed to be 'undesirable': it is a timely subject for the present day. We discuss how talk of raids and mass deportations by the new administration of Donald Trump is sparking fears among the thousands of undocumented Irish people living in the US. Naomi and Tim dig deeper into this history in a bonus debrief episode available for supporters over on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/halfpint-debrief-121365055 "There is a hidden, unspoken assumption that European immigrants were always legal... I always argue that that is a really wrong association in the first place. Undocumented immigration has always involved European immigration." Patreon supporters can listen to the full interview with Hidetaka Hirota here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/deporting-poor-121367468

Transcribed - Published: 2 February 2025

Why did chaos disrupt the formation of a new Irish government? What has the government promised to do, and who's in it? We break it down in this new episode. We also a look back on some of our prior reporting on the Healy Raes: rural political dynasty from County Kerry who have chosen to go into government for the first time - with Michael Healy Rae even set for a ministerial position. What will this mean for them? We discuss the stakes. For bonus episodes and early access, sign up to support the podcast on patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2025

Nollaig shona daoibh go léir! During this festive season please enjoy this short holiday episode which we originally recorded last year. Every year the Irish government and national media lend their full attention to the arrival of Santa Claus on the island of Ireland, and discuss the various logistics of his visit to every child in the country. In this mini bonus episode, we bring you this most important news story of the year, and explain how, for a few days every December, Santa dominates the parliamentary agenda of Dáil Éireann.

Transcribed - Published: 21 December 2024

Ireland went to the polls last week for the 2024 general election, and the results are beginning to build a picture of what the next government could look like. We break down what the vote means in this moment of international instability, and how the results compare to the previous election of 2020. Many thanks to everyone who sent in questions for this episode. You can find over 100 extra-content episodes, and support the continued making of the podcast, over on our Patreon page, at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport. A quick reminder that you can now gift Patreon subscriptions - a handy option for holiday presents this year!

Transcribed - Published: 3 December 2024

By the early 17th century England had finally gained political control over the island of Ireland, but within a few years the whole colonial project had once again collapsed into chaos and bloodshed. In this new edition of our Conquest mini-series, we examine the events leading up to the bloody rebellion of 1641, and explain how Ireland's colonial dynamics became central to the civil was that was breaking out in England. Warning, some of the primary sources quoted in this episode are extremely violent; listener discretion is advised. We dig more into this topic in a bonus Halfpint debrief episode, now available for supporters at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 17 November 2024

By the early 17th century England had finally gained political control over the island of Ireland, but within a few years the whole colonial project had once again collapsed into chaos and bloodshed. In this new edition of our Conquest mini-series, we examine the events leading up to the bloody rebellion of 1641, and explain how Ireland's colonial dynamics became central to the civil was that was breaking out in England. Warning, some of the primary sources quoted in this episode are extremely violent; listener discretion is advised. We dig more into this topic in a bonus Halfpint debrief episode, now available for supporters at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Published: 17 November 2024

The attention of people around the world has been captured by the presence of Irish soldiers standing in the way of the Israel Defence Forces as they launch an invasion of Lebanon in a bid to defeat militant group Hezbollah. In an area where Irish troops have been stationed so long that some locals have picked up Irish accents, personal ties go deep. The chief of staff of Ireland's defence forces has said Irish troops will "stay strong" in the face of Israeli orders to leave their positions following a spate of attacks on UN outposts. How did the peace force come to be there, and what comes next? Naomi and Tim speak to reporters on the ground and sum up how the conflict reached its present point, and Ireland's unique role in the region. We hear from Sally Hayden about her reporting on the ongoing bombing of Beirut, while Hannah McCarthy explains what the Irish peacekeepers have been facing, and what may lie behind Israel's tactics. For bonus episodes and to support the podcast, join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 19 October 2024

On Ireland's west coast, far from the noise and fury of US partisan politics, presidential contender Donald Trump has been bested by a fearsome foe: a tiny snail no larger than a pin prick. Naomi and Tim dig into the curious links between the Republican candidate and this windswept corner of Ireland, most notably the village of Doonbeg, where the development of a Trump golf course transformed local fortunes. We speak to journalist Kate Demolder about her experience reporting in the town and the local tensions she discovered between economic dependence on Trump, and deep reservations about his politics. Finally, Naomi and Tim consider what's at stake for Ireland in the coming US election and whether the relationship between Trump and Doonbeg is a microcosm of Ireland's policy towards the US. Naomi recalls her experience reporting on Trump in Scotland in 2016 and the red flags that were evident then in our bonus debrief episode over on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/112180566/

Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2024

We're on holiday! So please enjoy this classic episode of the podcast first recorded back in 2018. We'll be back soon with all new episodes and Halfpint extra content. == The most popular sports in Ireland are the Gaelic games: uniquely Irish sports with an ancient history and a dramatic political backstory that are finding increasing international success. Tim visits the Paris Gaels to hear why players who have never set foot in Ireland have taken to Gaelic football, while Naomi O’Leary explores the importance of the intensely local amateur sports to communities in Ireland. We hear from sports historian Paul Rouse of University College Dublin on how the foundation of the Gaelic Athletic Association in 1884 was deeply linked to the nationalist politics of the time. From Bronze Age myths about hurling matches between ancient tribes, to a devastating massacre in Croke Park stadium in 1920, we hear why modern Ireland can’t be understood without the GAA. For bonus episodes, support us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport.

Transcribed - Published: 15 August 2024

In the fourth episode of our Conquest miniseries, we take on of the most defining moments in the history of Ireland: the mass-plantation of Ulster. We'll see how the arrival of thousands of colonial settlers in this erstwhile Gaelic stronghold transformed the geopolitical dynamics of Ireland, Scotland, and England alike. We'll look at how the Ulster project and the settlement of Virginia took inspiration from one another; we'll explain why the redistribution of land in Ireland became so important to the emerging concept of "Britain", and we'll find out why local Gaelic populations were never fully "replaced". The texts from the Ulster Plantation Papers can be found here. Patreon supporters enjoy early access to this episode and also have access to an exclusive after-show debrief where we delve into our topic in more detail. If you would like to support the continued making of the podcast and gain access to over 100 exclusive "halfpint" episodes along the way, you can sign up to be a Patreon supporter at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Published: 15 July 2024

In the fourth episode of our Conquest miniseries, we take on of the most defining moments in the history of Ireland: the mass-plantation of Ulster. We'll see how the arrival of thousands of colonial settlers in this erstwhile Gaelic stronghold transformed the geopolitical dynamics of Ireland, Scotland, and England alike. We'll look at how the Ulster project and the settlement of Virginia took inspiration from one another; we'll explain why the redistribution of land in Ireland became so important to the emerging concept of "Britain", and we'll find out why local Gaelic populations were never fully "replaced". The texts from the Ulster Plantation Papers can be found here. Patreon supporters enjoy early access to this episode and also have access to an exclusive after-show debrief where we delve into our topic in more detail. If you would like to support the continued making of the podcast and gain access to over 100 exclusive "halfpint" episodes along the way, you can sign up to be a Patreon supporter at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2024

We have made this Halfpint bonus episode freely available to all our listeners. If you want to access more than 100 extra-content episodes just like this, you can sign up to support the continued making of the podcast at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport. In this edition of Halfpints, we answer questions about the recent EU and local elections in Ireland, and break down what the major consequences might be for the Irish and European political landscape.

Transcribed - Published: 16 June 2024

In February 2024, Michelle O'Neill assumed the position of first minister of Northern Ireland, making her the first person of an Irish-identifying, Catholic background to hold this most high-profile post in the devolved government. And yet, the difficulty O'Neill faced when trying to take her seat at Stormont highlighted the fact that, for a minority in the territory, Catholic nationalist are not seen as having a legitimate role in Northern Ireland's society. In this episode we look at the phenomenon of "uppity" Catholics - people who have been perceived to rise too far above their station, and who have thereby become targets for abuse and even violence. We speak to Pr Colin Harvey from the Human Rights Centre at Queens University Belfast about becoming a political target in the wake of Brexit, and we hear from Irish Times journalist and Author Martin Doyle about growing up in an aspirational Catholic family during the Troubles whose successes in local business fostered dark resentments in the local community ... Martin Doyle's award-wining memoir, Dirty Linen, was published by the Irish Academic Press in 2023, and can be purchased here. Irish Passport Patrons have access to an exclusive extended reading of Martin's essay, “A ghost estate and an empty grave”. If you would like to support the podcast and access over 100 pieces of extra content, you can become a patreon supporter at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport. This episode featured ‘The Moon Got Tangled in the Branches’ by Aleksey Chistilin

Transcribed - Published: 6 June 2024

The most expensive, most all-consuming war in Elizabethan England was not waged against France or Spain, but against Ireland. In the third instalment in our Conquest series, we see how the great clan chiefs of Ireland united under the banner of "Arch Traitor" Hugh O'Neill to stage a momentous uprising against the colonial English state. From Gaelic pirate ships sailing up the Thames to fearsome crowns of peacock feathers gifted by vengeful Popes, we follow the dramatic events that led to Ireland's disparate clans combining to form an unprecedented front of resistance - one so seemingly unbreakable that it threatened the financial ruin of England itself. Special thanks to Gráinne Smyth, who sang "Óró sé do bheatha abhaile" for this episode. Thank you to our Patrons who keep this podcast running. You can find our Patreon debriefs and 100+ more episodes of extra audio content at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport.

Published: 6 May 2024

The most expensive, most all-consuming war in Elizabethan England was not waged against France or Spain, but against Ireland. In the third instalment in our Conquest series, we see how the great clan chiefs of Ireland united under the banner of "Arch Traitor" Hugh O'Neill to stage a momentous uprising against the colonial English state. From Gaelic pirate ships sailing up the Thames to fearsome crowns of peacock feathers gifted by vengeful Popes, we follow the dramatic events that led to Ireland's disparate clans combining to form an unprecedented front of resistance - one so seemingly unbreakable that it threatened the financial ruin of England itself. Special thanks to Gráinne Smyth, who sang "Óró sé do bheatha abhaile" for this episode. Thank you to our Patrons who keep this podcast running. You can find our Patreon debriefs and 100+ more episodes of extra audio content at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport.

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2024

In this political update, Naomi and Tim sum up the background of the incoming new Taoiseach Simon Harris and discuss the sudden resignation of Leo Varadkar and the different factors behind it. One of them was Ireland's two recent referendums aimed at changing some of the more Catholic-influenced conservative language in the 1937 constitution, which ended in a resounding defeat for the government. What were the proposed changes and why were they rejected by the public? Finally, we look ahead to the bonanza of elections that are due in the coming year, and how the different parties sit in the polls. What are your thoughts on the resignation of Leo Varadkar and the incoming Simon Harris? A bonus episode where we take listener questions is coming soon for supporters over on Patreon.

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2024

Part two of our Conquest mini-series explores the violent occupation of Gaelic Ireland by Elizabethan adventurers between 1560 and 1590, heralding an age of terror and genocide that would ultimately lead to a full-scale war between the Gaelic clans of Ireland and the English crown. From the demise of the Old English Lordships to the tentative plantations of Ulster, this episode lays out the very foundations for the colonisation of Ireland. A bonus debrief episode is available for Patreon supporters over on https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport You'll find a link to the book we mentioned in the show here: https://www.fourcourtspress.ie/books/2017/nine-years-war/ You can find a link to the London Irish Centre, here: https://londonirishcentre.org/

Published: 9 March 2024

Part two of our Conquest mini-series explores the violent occupation of Gaelic Ireland by Elizabethan adventurers between 1560 and 1590, heralding an age of terror and genocide that would ultimately lead to a full-scale war between the Gaelic clans of Ireland and the English crown. From the demise of the Old English Lordships to the tentative plantations of Ulster, this episode lays out the very foundations for the colonisation of Ireland. A bonus debrief episode is available for Patreon supporters over on https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport You'll find a link to the book we mentioned in the show here: https://www.fourcourtspress.ie/books/2017/nine-years-war/ You can find a link to the London Irish Centre, here: https://londonirishcentre.org/

Transcribed - Published: 9 March 2024

In the period from 1534 to 1653 Ireland was profoundly transformed. At the start, it was almost entirely Gaelic, ruled by Gaelic clans with an ancient way of life, and unique legal and political system. A hundred years later, Ireland was unrecognisable. In this first part of our new mini series, Conquest, Tim and Naomi set the scene for the profound transformation of the island of Ireland by colonial invasion. A bonus episode in which Naomi and Tim discuss the making of this episode and what stood out to them is now available for Patreon supporters here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/after-show-97840308

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2024

In the period from 1534 to 1653 Ireland was profoundly transformed. At the start, it was almost entirely Gaelic, ruled by Gaelic clans with an ancient way of life, and unique legal and political system. A hundred years later, Ireland was unrecognisable. In this first part of our new mini series, Conquest, Tim and Naomi set the scene for the profound transformation of the island of Ireland by colonial invasion. A bonus episode in which Naomi and Tim discuss the making of this episode and what stood out to them is now available for Patreon supporters here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/after-show-97840308

Published: 6 February 2024

Every year the Irish government and national media lend their full attention to the arrival of Santa Claus on the island of Ireland, and discuss the various logistics of his visit to every child in the country. In this mini bonus episode, we bring you this most important news story of the year, and explain how, for a few days every December, Santa dominates the parliamentary agenda of Dáil Éireann.

Transcribed - Published: 20 December 2023

We break down the political consequences of the recent far-right riots in Dublin, explaining how the violence began, who has been instigating movements like this, and how this could transform the country's political landscape. We see how members of the far right have failed in electoral gains, but have succeeded in disrupting the traditional political process, which until now has been remarkably accessible to Irish voters. With a host of national and European elections and referendums on the horizon, is the real disruption still to come? You can find the Go Fund Me pages for the victims and heroes of the Dublin knife attack here: https://www.gofundme.com/en-ie/c/act/parnell-square-attack-and-riots-how-to-help

Transcribed - Published: 11 December 2023

Tim published a book! How does nobility work as a power strategy, why does it bear so many curious similarities to the construct of race, and what does all of this have to do with Ireland? We delve into Tim's book, "Nobility and the Making of Race in Eighteenth-Century Britain", published by Bloomsbury Academic this autumn, and uncover the intricate power dynamics of Irish nobility in the eighteenth century. We find out how during this age of colonial expansion European naturalists began to classify global populations according to ancient traditions of blood hierarchy, reimagining white Europeans as the natural aristocracy of mankind. We also explore how the very idea of "natural nobility" in Ireland at this time brought up profound anxieties, revealing a dangerous power vacuum at the heart of colonial rule. Listeners can buy "Nobility and the Making of Race in Eighteenth-Century Britain" on the Bloomsbury Publishing website: www.bloomsbury.com. Patreon members benefit from early access to this episode -- thank you for keeping the show running! If you would like access to our 100+ episodes of extra content and support the continued making of show along the way, you can sign up at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport.

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2023

As the world reels from the horrific Hamas attack on Israel and its deadly retribution on the Gaza Strip, Ireland has emerged as a prominent player in the European response to the worsening conflict. In this episode, Naomi and Tim sum up the current situation and explain some of the historical context that explains why Ireland has traditionally been one of the most sympathetic western countries towards the Palestinian cause. The two sides of this conflict have long been adopted by rival communities in Northern Ireland, with Irish republicans flying the Palestinian flag and British loyalists identifying with Israel. The episode reviews some of the lesser-known historical links between Ireland and the foundation of Israel, exploring the complexities of a time when the relationship between Zionism and Irish Republicanism was not the same as it is now. Finally, Naomi describes her reporting on the confused European response and why Ireland has emerged as a prominent voice. Tragically, after the recording of this episode we learned that the missing Irish citizen Kim Damti was confirmed dead. Our deepest condolences to her family. Thank you so much to all our Patreon supporters for helping us make this podcast. You can support us on: https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 12 October 2023

We’re back and diving straight into breaking politics, as Naomi explains the chilling implications of the UK government’s new “Northern Ireland Troubles Legacy Bill”. This controversial new law has provoked outrage from across the communities of Northern Ireland, uniting unionist and nationalist political parties against it. But what does this law entail, how will it affect the people of Northern Ireland, and why does it represent a tense new chapter in British-Irish relations? We explain all. Listeners to this episode might be interested in these previous instalments of the Irish Passport Podcast: Collusion: https://www.theirishpassport.com/podcast/s3-episode-3-collusion/ Poetry and Pain: https://www.theirishpassport.com/podcast/s3-episode-4-poetry-and-pain/ Thanks as always to our Patreon supporters for keeping the podcast running. If you would like to access extra content from the Irish Passport, you can support the show at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport.

Transcribed - Published: 7 September 2023

Hi everyone, Naomi here. Like many people I've been reeling since the news of the death of Sinéad O'Connor. I took a moment to share some of my thoughts and a little about Sinéad and who she was - the girl with towering musical gifts who broke out of a Magdalene Laundry to busk on the streets of Dublin and achieved worldwide fame while never losing her soul. Unfortunately, her life was cruel, and she paid the price. Here are some of the links I mentioned: Radio Sinéad, a Spotify playlist of 467 songs that she loved and put together to share publicly: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4tJNA0rDI3sdlO5fF2f4jW?si=goXEjQDBQiWD8lLpUopDbg A tribute to Sinéad O'Connor by President Micheal D Higgins https://president.ie/en/media-library/news-releases/statement-by-president-higgins-on-the-death-of-sinead-oconnor Black Boys on Mopeds (1990), by Sinéad O'Connor https://youtu.be/n14lwdpYkAA Sinéad O'Connor explains why she ripped up the picture of the pope on Saturday Night Live https://youtu.be/b3CuF7B3tIY Sinéad O'Connor faces down a booing crowd at Madison Square Garden, and stands by her remarks about child abuse in the days after her controversial Saturday Night Live Appearance https://youtu.be/GzxTDHMQza8 The Prayer of St Francis, 1993 https://twitter.com/KillianM2/status/1684302806067322883?s=20 You Made Me the Thief of your Heart (1994) https://youtu.be/X2SVsV7Wuh4 In her own words, Sinéad O'Connor recounts her experience in a Magdalene Laundry as a teenager http://web.archive.org/web/20230329225310/https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/sinead-o-connor-on-her-teenage-years-i-steal-everything-i-m-not-a-nice-person-i-m-trouble-1.4560611 A comeback performance in 2019 on RTÉ's Late Late Show in which Sinéad O'Connor proudly appeared in dress and headscarf reflecting the spiritual refuge she found in her conversion to Islam in 2018. https://www.rte.ie/entertainment/2023/0727/1074429-sinead-oconnor-melts-hearts-on-late-late-show/

Transcribed - Published: 27 July 2023

Ireland's strict libel laws and onerously expensive legal system is stacked against journalists and in favour of wealthy people who abuse the situation to censor reporting about them. That's when Naomi discovered in her research for a recent report for press freedom organisation the International Press Institute. She discusses what she found out, why property developers are particularly litiguous in Ireland, and what the impact is on ordinary journalists and media organisations from the largest broadcasters to the smallest magazines and podcasts. As it happens, Tim was recording this episode in Paris, just as France was about to face another night of large-scale rioting following the shooting of a teenager by police. He explains what led to the situation. To access more than 100 bonus episodes like this one, support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport Naomi's report can be read here: https://ipi.media/ireland-how-the-wealthy-and-powerful-abuse-legal-system-to-silence-reporting/

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2023

What's in a gene? We wade into the world of genetics, to find out all about an extensive DNA mapping project called the Irish DNA Atlas and to see what it can tell us about the history of Ireland. We also take a look at the phenomenon that is at-home DNA ancestry tests, which have exploded in popularity in the past few years, as well as exploring the ethical or legal concerns they might bring up. Finally, we take a deep dive into our own genetic legacy, revealing the potential secrets hidden in our DNA... Supporters of Patreon hear our episodes early and ad-free. You can sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport A bonus episode discussing the making of this podcast and additional insights is available here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/after-show-dna-83901131

Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2023

In the second part of our episode on Ireland's lost forests, Naomi travels to the Beara peninsula in Co. Cork to speak to sculptor and author Eoghan Daltun. Eoghan's award-wining book, An Atlantic Rainforest: a Personal Journey into the Magic of Rewilding, recounts how he has brought a sector of ancient Irish woodland back to life by simply making space for native ecosystems to thrive. We also hear about how E.U. policy has shaped woodland preservation in Europe, we discuss how big predators might be the key to restoring biodiversity, and we return to the mystery of the bare-bottomed Woodkernes - discovering the weird and ancient art of the Braigetóir, or professional flatulists. A bonus episode will be available at https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2023

A rich political, social and economic history of Ireland can be told by an analysis of its landscape, and specifically through the history of its trees. In this episode, Naomi and Tim delve into the history of deforestation and its tangled associations with colonialism and agriculture, and whether the 'green' image of Ireland is all that it seems. Coming soon in part 2, we will visit a place where the ancient forest of Ireland is making a rebound: in the Irish Atlantic Rainforest restored on the Beara Peninsula by Eoghan Daltun. Patreon supporters can access a bonus debrief episode over at https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport in which Naomi and Tim discuss a genocidal Elizabethan poet who was banished to Cork, and why a blank and featureless lawn is considered an ideal to so many... Thanks so much for listening!

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2023

After years of deadlock, EU and UK leaders have declared a historic reset in their relations as they reach an agreement on Northern Ireland called the 'Windsor Framework'. Naomi and Tim unpick the details of what is in the deal on Northern Ireland's post-Brexit arrangements, intended to resolve the dispute over the so-called Protocol that came into force in 2021. What's the story with red and green channels? Why is everyone talking about the "Stormont Brake"? Will this finally be enough to get the Democratic Unionist Party back into power sharing? And why on earth was the British king involved? You'll find the answers to all these questions and more in this fresh-off-the-press Brexit update. Check our our bonus episodes available for Patreon supporters and with our full archive of extra content over at: www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 27 February 2023

On the 27th of August 1979, the Provisional IRA assassinated one of the best known members of Britain's royal family as he holidayed in County Sligo. But this was just one of 25 killings that took place that day. The events of that afternoon soon came to represent a watershed in the history of Anglo-Irish relations, and a landmark moment of escalation in a Northern Ireland conflict that was now settling into what some referred to as the "Long War". Naomi and Tim unpick the wider context of this notorious episode of the Troubles, and explore how it encompassed so much more than the death of a celebrity royal. This podcast is only mad possible by our patreon supporters. If you would like to sign up to support the podcast today, and gain access to over 80 pieces of bonus content along the way, you can sign up to our patreon page now at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport.

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2023

From a mystery in rural Ireland that has persisted for over a century, to the little-known link between a World Cup star footballer and the town of Donabate, to the unexpected ways that Hiberno English is spreading in Europe... it's a story episode for you to enjoy over the holidays as Naomi and Tim share their favourite stories for 2022. https://twitter.com/NaomiOhReally/status/1599362845942370304?s=20&t=aEc52pKN3a8a0w9sECahFw Tim's image: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dissolving_views#/media/File:Magiclantern.jpg A bonus episode is available for Patreon supporters along with our full archive of extra content over at: www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 19 December 2022

Today, Leo Varadkar takes over as Taoiseach. This means that both Britain and Ireland have governments led by people of Indian heritage, as in London Rishi Sunak took over as prime minister in October. The coincidence has provoked renewed curiosity in these leaders, their backgrounds, and the complex shared history between Ireland and India under the British Empire. To mark the day, we're reposting our episode about that very topic: 'Ireland and India: Assassins of Empire'. Anarchist clubs, public assassinations, and secret rebel meetings in a notorious vegetarian restaurant – all these feature in this fascinating episode on the historical links between Ireland and India at the beginning of the 20th century. UCD’s Conor Mulvagh explains why Ireland and India were so symbolically important to the survival of the British Empire, and why the independence movements in both countries were often deeply intertwined. We hear how Indian law students in Dublin joined rebel militias, forged friendships with leaders of the Easter Rising, and later took inspiration from Irish nationalism to challenge the British Raj. Vikrant Sharma, founder of the international relations website The Global Telescope, tells us about the many parallels between Ireland and India’s history of British rule, and how both should perhaps be considered in a larger framework of colonial strategy and nationalist resistance. The books mentioned in this episode are: Conor Mulvagh, Irish Days and Indian Memories: V. V. Giri and Indian Law Students at University College Dublin, 1913-1916. Published in 2016 by the Irish Academic Press. Shereen F. Ilahi. Imperial Violence and the Path to Independence: India, Ireland and the Crisis of Empire. Published in 2016 by I.B. Tauris and Co. You can find Vikrant Sharma’s website, The Global Telescope, here: linktr.ee/TheGlobalTelescope Follow us on Facebook and Twitter at @PassportIrish. If you enjoyed this episode, do give us a good review in your podcast app and share it with your friends. Bonus episodes are published for our supporters over at www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2022

Ireland's dream as it emerged as an independent state was to 'take its place among the nations of the world'. The principle of international cooperation has therefore always been tightly bound up with Irish nationalism and how the country pursues its goals. In this episode, Naomi and Tim explore Ireland's quest for recognition, first at the League of Nations and then at its successor the United Nations. We speak to longtime UN staffer Niall McCann to hear the inside story of how Ireland is seen at the UN, and discuss the surprising role of the Irish government in pushing for radical reform of the intergovernmental body. Plus, Naomi discusses a story she broke that revealed how the outsized influence of the UN's five permanent security council members can warp its policy and disable the body from being effective-- in this case, on Ukraine. A bonus episode is available for Patreon supporters in which Naomi and Tim debrief from this episode and discuss what stood out to them. It's available for subscribers along with our full archive of extra content over at: www.patreon.com/theirishpassport

Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2022

As all Hell breaks loose in the halls of Westminster, Naomi and Tim break down what on earth has just happened in the UK. Why did Prime Minister Liz Truss resign after only 44 days? Who might take over her post? And what are the consequences of all this chaos for the island of Ireland? We hear commentary from Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, and discuss the potential fallout of the Tories’ chronic instability in the context of current global crises. Don’t miss out on this one! Bonus episodes on https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport Follow us on Twitter at @PassportIrish

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2022

In the final episode of our War of Independence mini-series, Tim and Naomi lay out the historical events that split the emerging Irish nation and led to a civil war. As we pick up on the story, global condemnation has pressured the British government into offering a truce. Following years of gruelling guerilla warfare against the might of the British army, an exhausted team of representatives from the rebel Irish government travel to London to negotiate peace terms. Tim and Naomi dig into the role of reluctant negotiator Michael Collins and consumate operator Éamon de Valera who remained back in Dublin, quoting from articles and speeches from the time to bring to life the events that would shape Irish history for decades. Ps - what does enduring bitterness over partition have to do with a cherished Irish potato-based snack? Find out in this bonus Halfpint debrief episode made specially for Patreon supporters, in Naomi and Tim reflect on the making of this episode and discuss what stood out to them: https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport You can follow us on Twitter at @PassportIrish

Transcribed - Published: 20 October 2022

Tensions threaten to flare again between Ireland, Britain, and the EU with a new UK prime minister who has promised to take a hard line on the Northern Ireland Protocol. The death of Queen Elizabeth however put a pause on developments for the period of mourning, and produced some fascinating moments too as her successor King Charles met with Sinn Féin and acknowledged them as the biggest party in Northern Ireland. Naomi and Tim catch up on current events, discuss the Dublin drama turning heads in Brussels, and why the Irish government resembles a rotisserie chicken... Patreon supporters can listen to a bonus debrief episode dissecting the complex Irish reaction to the death of Queen Elizabeth over on patreon.com/theirishpassport You can follow us on Twitter at @PassportIrish

Transcribed - Published: 18 September 2022

The third installment in Naomi and Tim’s series on the War of Independence discusses a landmark of 20th century Irish history: the partition of the island. Tim digs into the backstory to reveal how once again, an unhappy chapter of Irish history is linked to Winston Churchill. This episode lays out the thinking at the time and how the so-called ‘Irish question’ was shaped through parliamentary debates in Westminster, as a team of officials in London drew out the boundaries of the two new jurisdictions while Ireland was at war. We discuss how unionist movements evolved in relation to the question of Home Rule and partition, and the sense of betrayal particularly of southern unionists that led Dublin-born unionist leader Edward Carson to declare: “What a fool I was! I was only a puppet, and so was Ulster, and so was Ireland, in the political game that was to get the Conservative Party into power”. University College Dublin historian Dr Conor Mulvagh joins us again to lay out how the pro-independence forces in the south contended with the new entity that was created on the north east of the island, and the violence unleashed as whipped-up unionist crowds drove Catholics out of their homes and jobs in the north. A bonus episode is available for Patreon supporters in which Naomi and Tim debrief from this episode and discuss what stood out to them – including the striking parallels with present day politics in a reckless Conservative Party wreaking havoc towards the island of Ireland. You can hear it at https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport You can follow us on Twitter at @PassportIrish

Transcribed - Published: 2 September 2022

The second installment of Naomi and Tim’s series on Ireland’s War of Independence focuses on the Black and Tans: the brutal reinforcements sent by Winston Churchill to put down the forces of the revolutionary Irish republic in 1920. Historian Dr Conor Mulvagh of University College Dublin lays out the key role of the women’s movement, Cumann na mBan; dissects the tactics of the old Irish Republican Army forces that came together to defend independence; and explains how the guerilla tactics and reprisals by the Black and Tans fit in to the history of modern warfare. Meanwhile, Cork historian Michael Lenihan breaks down one of the most notorious incidents of the era that was to shape the fabric of Ireland in the decades to come: the Burning of Cork by British forces. Two bonus episodes are available for Patreon supporters delving further into this topic and era of Irish history. Naomi and Tim have a debrief following the episode and discuss what stood out to them, including the stories and scars left by the Black and Tans they encountered growing up. In a separate bonus episode, Dr Conor Mulvagh talks in full about his own research and the historical significance of Ireland’s War of Independence. To hear them you can sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/theirishpassport You can follow us on Twitter at @PassportIrish

Transcribed - Published: 24 July 2022