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Stormont Sources

The Executive's Chances of Survival... and a Unionist Merger?

Season 1, Ep. 35
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In this episode of Stormont Sources, David McCann, Michael McKernan, and Tim Cairns go deep inside the latest debates shaking unionism in Northern Ireland.

đź’¬ Main topics:

  • Could the DUP and UUP merge? Or is cooperation between unionist parties still impossible?
  • The real story behind Doug Beattie and Jeffrey Donaldson’s secret talks.
  • How Jim Allister’s return in 2004 reshaped unionist politics — and created lasting tensions within the DUP.
  • What the TUV’s rise tells us about the future of unionism.
  • Plus, listener questions on SDLP strategy in South Belfast, whether Claire Hanna’s vote can deliver two Assembly seats, and more.

Tempers flared at Stormont this week as Paul Givan narrowly fended off a vote of no confidence. Relations inside the Northern Ireland Executive have hit a new low — and the DUP’s decision not to attend Catherine Connolly’s presidential inauguration has raised fresh questions about political cooperation.

Are we heading for another Stormont collapse? Or will the Executive limp on until the next election?


With behind-the-scenes stories from Tim Cairns, former Special Adviser to DUP First Minister Peter Robinson, and Michael McKernan, former SDLP adviser, this episode offers rare insider analysis on how Stormont really works.


📱 Join the conversation:

WhatsApp us at 0333 404 6507 (use the word Stormont)

Email: hello@stormontsources.com

Follow us on X, Instagram, and Facebook → @StormontSources

🎧 Listen on Spotify / Apple Podcasts / YouTube — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment below with your thoughts on whether the DUP and UUP could ever unite.

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