{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/67c5d757b48a8f157c1f9076/6a54aab708f5afd134f2021e?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Unionism 'Doesn't Have Anything to Celebrate' after Jeffrey Donaldson Scandal - 13/07/2026","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/67c5d757b48a8f157c1f9076/1783929742069-97417dad-cb26-4337-a502-527b59d871a1.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>Yesterday marked the Twelfth of July, traditionally one of the biggest celebrations in the unionist and loyalist calendar. But this year, the occasion came against the backdrop of one of the most difficult periods political unionism has faced in recent memory.</p><p><br></p><p>Following a turbulent couple of years, culminating in last month's conviction of former DUP leader Geoffrey Donaldson on serious sexual offences, some are questioning the state of unionism and whether there was much to celebrate.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>The scandal has prompted renewed debate about leadership, public trust and the future direction of political unionism.</p><p><br></p><p>Professor Deirdre Heenan, Professor of Social Policy at Ulster University and political commentator, believes political unionism is facing an existential crisis, with many voters feeling increasingly alienated and disillusioned.</p><p><br></p><p>Professor Deirdre Heenan joined us on The Agenda this morning to talk to us some more about this.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>","author_name":"lmfm "}