The Echo Chamber Podcast

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this tortoise shack episode, writer, political commentator and campaigner, Emma DeSouza and Tony explore (post-Trump-Burnham statements) the evolving landscape of Irish unification, the current political dynamics, and the varying community and media engagement across the island of Ireland, and in the UK. They discuss the recent political statements from all sides, delve into the importance of inclusive dialogue, and why there should be a focus on the opportunities for shaping a new Ireland. Ed Sheeran, Macklemore vs the news that matters in Gaza:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-169808205 The Govt-Media Roundabout of Shite:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-169410750 Hassan Herzallah in Gaza:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-169604628

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Nour Alali is a trainee lawyer who has graduated with her law degree, but has been unable to start her career because of the ongoing genocide in Gaza. She joins us from her home, which she has returned to after being displaced for over two years. She shares her story of living through bombardments, attacks, hunger and cruel weather. She also shares her belief that justice and law can be upheld if people find the courage to fight for it. Latest from Gaza with Hassan Herzallah:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-169604628 The Govt-Media Roundabout of Shite:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-169410750 Trump, Burnham and the United Ireland Movement:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-169515803

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack episode, Tony dives deep into the evolving/devolving immigration landscape and its implications for the Irish health system. The discussion centres around the right wing political shift and how they threaten to reshape the fabric of our health service. He's joined by four Medical Professionals who are at various stages of their careers, from trainee to hospital consultant, to dig into the impact the lengthening citizenship process will have on patients, medical staff, their families and the public. No one should be reduced to their economic utility, but no one who was asked to come here should be told that they aren't really wanted. The Govt-Media Roundabout of Shit podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-169410750 Trump, Burnham and the case for a Border Poll with Emma DeSouza:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-169515803

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Reboot Republic episode, Rory and Tony are rejoined by Senior Lecturer of Applied Psychology at University College Cork and President-elect of the Psychology Society of Ireland, Dr Sharon Lambert, who explores and outlines the stark realities of child poverty, social inequality, and policy choices in Ireland. They discuss how societal and political decisions impact mental health, social cohesion, class solidarity and long-term well-being, emphasizing the importance of empathy and equitable participation. They also get into the new health referral system around drugs and Sharon explains how it may and may not work. The Fagersta School Attack podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-168854108 The Case for Left Wing Populism podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-168936278

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack CW: This episode contains subjects that listeners/viewers might find disturbing. Abdulkhaliq Burnat is a Palestinian law student from the village of Billin in the West Bank. He was jailed for a total of 5 years in Israeli jails, four of them were under administrative detention, without charge or trial. He joins us to share his prison experience and describe the abuses he suffered and witnessed there, and why he now wants to become a lawyer who will help legally dismantle the illegal Administrative Detention System. Dr Sharon Lambert on Empathy and Inequality:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-168594354 The case for left populism:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-168936278

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack (Note: Recorded for members Aug 28th) In this Tortoise Shack episode, NUI Lecturer in Criminal Law, Policing and Criminology, Cian ó Concubhai, rejoins us to discuss his report, The Role of Crime and Security Journalism in Irish Democracy. We explore recent (and not so recent) cases, the relationships between crime correspondents and Policing Authorities, surveillance issues, and the influence of funding on journalistic independence. Cian discusses systemic challenges, legal protections, and the risks faced by journalists in Ireland and Northern Ireland. They also discuss the Justice Minister's reaction to the tragic events on the M9. Report is here:https://www.iccl.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/The-Role-of-Crime-and-Security-Journalism-in-Irish-Democracy-MU.pdf The Case for Left Wing Populism:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-168936278 The Fagersta School attack:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-168854108

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Roa'a Abuaser is a 19-year-old medical student from Gaza. Alongside her studies, she is a poet, creative writer, and musician, she speaks 4 languages. Driven by a passion for cultural exchange, she founded PolyVera, the first language and cultural community in Gaza. She had the temerity to tell Yousef and Tony that there's nothing interesting about her. We disagree. Former Palestinian Child Prisoner, Abdulkhaliq Burnat podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-168488833 The Bookmarks Podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-168199727

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Roa'a Abuaser is a 19-year-old medical student from Gaza. Alongside her studies, she is a poet, creative writer, and musician, she speaks 4 languages. Driven by a passion for cultural exchange, she founded PolyVera, the first language and cultural community in Gaza. She had the temerity to tell Yousef and Tony that there's nothing interesting about her. We disagree. Former Palestinian Child Prisoner, Abdulkhaliq Burnat podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-168488833 The Bookmarks Podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-168199727

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack The best way to improve our biodiversity is to support, protect and when necessary, rescue the wildlife we already live among. Joining us for the first time is Animal Rescue Coordinator with Kildare Wildlife Rescue, Pearse Stokes. We talk about his journey into this work, his sense of duty to the environment and why he believes finding purpose is a powerful antidote to the toxic masculinity that is present in our society. We also discuss why we seem stuck in the politics the past and how that is going to help us mitigate the climate collapse of today. See more at:https://www.kwr.ie/ New Bookmarks Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-168199727

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Self-described former Unionist, TIK Tok, Irish-Northern Irish-British identity content creator, Claire JC, joins Tony in the Tortoise Shack to talk about her journey, identity-wise, politically and even geographically. We discuss the United Ireland movement, the Happy Lundy community and why she is building Ulster Says Maybe. A cracker of a chat, and no Andy, a border poll is not off the table. Find Claire at https:https://www.patreon.com/UlsterSaysMaybe and at //www.tiktok.com/@clairejc_official The Police Surveillance of journalists podcast is out here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-167637329 Roa'a in Gaza podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-167819316

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this PalCast, Yousef Aljamal talks to cohost Tony Groves about the latest news on Gaza, the current worseninig reality on the ground and the truth behind the ceasefire and the Hamas position on surrendering their weapons. Then they look at the upcoming Israeli election and the polling that shows that the problems with the actions towards Palestinians extends beyond the current Netanyahu government. Medical Student Roa'a Abuaser in Gaza podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-167819316 Ulster Says Maybe podcast with Claire JC:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-167578305

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack episode, Tony is joined by author, lecturer and neutrality campaigner, Dr Patrick Bresnihan, to discuss Ireland's neutrality, climate change, military spending, and the influence powerful (and often vested) interests have on Irish policy. They explore the political landscape, societal debates, and the importance of informed discourse. They also get into the social media attacks on Patrick by prominent mainstream commentators that dragged into question freedom of expression and academic freedoms. The Gardai and the Crime Correspondent:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-167637329 Ulster says Maybe podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-167578305

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this very special PalCast, Yousef and Tony are joined from Gaza by Zain Abu Tawela, a brilliant 10yr old who enjoys crafting, designing clothes, and creating art with playdough. She tells us about her dream of owning a bookshop and becoming a pottery artist. She also recounts her experience of displacement, food insecurity, school and how her sense of humour makes the serious times lighter and sometimes the lighter moments more sad. The Geography Teacher vs the Dan's:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-167005633 Pearse Stokes System Change podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-167184601 Yousef and Tony break down the Israeli election:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-166571088

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack This Tortoise Shack episode is a heartfelt and open discussion on Friedreich's Ataxia, its impact on young people, and the urgent need for accessible treatments. Journalist Niamh Ní Hoireabhaid and Legal Student, Emily Felix share their personal journeys, advocacy efforts, frustrations, struggles and hopes for the future. The conversation ends with a focus on the importance of societal support, the need for government action and the hope of medical advancements. The Dan's vs The Geography Teacher:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-167005633 10yr Old Zain in Gaza:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-166824885

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack episode, American-based Professor of Economics, Constantin Gurdgiev, joins Tony to analyse the latest US economic data, the job losses, NILF's and the newly emerging political landscape. Exploring the impact of populism, the economy's disconnection from society, geopolitics and global financial strategies. We delve into the implications of recent market movements, debt management, and potential solutions for economic stability. The Gap with Trick Mist podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-166647410 The Friedrich's Ataxia - Skyclars podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-166919583

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Abdulrahman Al-Sheikh Khalil chose to leave Egypt to pursue his studies in IT. Less than a month later October 7th occurred and he's spent the last almost 3yrs going through experiences he very much didn't sign up for. He joins us from Gaza to tell his story. Don't miss it. Note: This episode is clunky because of the nature of stable WiFi and electricity challenges in Gaza are as bad as they've been for a long time. But please stick with it. Constantin Gurdgiev on the US economy and the troubles ahead:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-166312690 The Left Populism and Dan O'Brien's cancel culture podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/mamdani-left-and-166467069

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this tortoise shack episode, Tony is rejoined by Madrid-based journalist Eoghan Gilmartin to explore the complex geopolitical and humanitarian issues surrounding the Western Sahara conflict, migration crises at Ceuta, and Europe's strategic vulnerabilities. Eoghan and Tony discuss the influence of US and Israeli policies, the role of Spain, and the broader implications for European security and climate change. Constantin Gurdgiev on the US Economy and the indicators of a rough time ahead:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-166312690

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack The Cooled versus The Cooked In this Tortoise Shack podcast, Tony and climate advocate, activist and TUD lecturer, Dr Ciarán O'Carroll, discuss the catastrophic impacts of climate change on marine life, weather events, and global food security, emphasising the need for collective action and policy change. Ciarán outlines a way out of this mess, so it's not all doom and gloom. I swear. The Ceuta Refugee Crisis,FIFA, Ryanair, The Odyssey, Meloni, Trump and the Abraham Accord podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-166008419

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this PalCast, Yousef is rejoined by long-time PalCast collaborator, Just World Educational's Helena Cobban and political analyst, commentator and Palestinian from Gaza, Muhammad Shehada, to talk about the truth about the situation in Gaza, the Trump regime's grift, the global response to the Board of Peace and much more. Wildfires and Ocean Heatwaves podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-165441358

Please join us at patreon.com/tortosieshack In this episode, UCD's School of Architecture Asst Prof Orla Hegarty, is back to talk housing. We dive into the current state of housing, planning regulations, and urban development in Ireland. Orla explores the race to the bottom in housing standards, deregulation impacts, and the importance and undermining of the democratic planning processes. The Saoradh not Syria podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-164958354 Budget 2027, Taxes and a more equal society podcast with Michael Taft is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-165240842

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Dana Besaiso is a Gaza-born Palestinian LLM candidate, specialising in Public International Law. She is also a writer with We Are Not Numbers, and having "survived" the Gaza genocide, is now completing her studies in London. She joins us to share her story of hunger, displacement, loss and her hope to complete her studies and then play a role in holding those responsible for the many crimes committed to her people accountable. Orla Hegarty on the Housing Race to the Bottom podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-164573894 The Syria-Saoradh Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-164958354

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack episode, Prof Richard Murphy joins Tony to discuss the flaws in the UK's tax system, the myths around wealth taxes, and practical solutions for tax reform to address inequality and fund public services. They talk about Piers Morgan quoting Richard to take down Gary Stevenson, and what, if anything, is changing for the UK under the Andy Burnham-led government. This is a deep dive into economic justice and policy reform. Orla Hegarty on the race to the bottom in home building standards:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-164573894 Greg Stoker and Mark Wayne podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-164663697

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this tortoise shack podcast, Tony is joined by MEP Luke Ming Flanagan to discuss the dangers posed to farmers and fishers by the upcoming EU budget, the work (regressive and progressive) of the last parliament, and even his admiration for Maria Walsh on one day of infamy in the European Parliament. Prof Richard Murphy on wealth taxes, Gary Stevenson and Andy Burnham:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-164447574

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Leila Warah is a Palestinian American multimedia journalist currently based in Palestine. Born and raised in the United Arab Emirates, she holds a degree in Journalism and Media and has significant experience in reporting across digital platforms. Through her social media (@leila.shw on Instagram), Leila creates videos that stay true to the Palestinian question, breaking it down for an international audience to better understand what life under Israeli occupation in the West Bank looks like. Her content delivers on-the-ground visual storytelling, tailored for an international audience, that humanizes the headlines, shedding light on Palestinian identity, resistance, and the everyday realities of communities often overlooked by mainstream media. Zena Tahhan is a journalist with over ten years of experience in journalism and human rights organizations. She holds a BSc in Journalism from Northwestern University in Qatar and an MA in Middle East Studies from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. As a writer and TV reporter, she focuses on exposing the realities of Palestinian life under Israeli occupation, covering issues such as killings, settler attacks, land confiscation, military raids, political prisoners, and forced displacement. Alongside field reporting, she also produces political analysis and opinion pieces. Her expertise spans Palestine's political history, settler colonialism, and international human rights law, with a particular focus on how Israel's system of military occupation operates through laws, courts, and policies that undermine basic freedoms. They both joined me in the Shack. Thanks to Pau Garcés for his help in making this pod happen. The Whistleblower Special Series is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-163145416

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack episode Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan joins us to talk about the EU Parliament, the rolling back of workers rights and environmental protections in the name of competitiveness and simplification and why Ryanair are flying to occupied territory. And yes, we also discuss her party's position on hare coursing. The Right To Tell, whistleblower Special Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-163159955

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack episode, Tony speaks with activist, artist and Cllr Noelle Brown, who is herself a survivor of the Mother and Baby Homes, about the ongoing issues surrounding mother and baby homes in Ireland, focusing on the recent planning permission granted for a development over the Bessborough site, where many children are buried and where at least 859 of their remains are still missing. They explore the historical injustices, the fight for justice, and the importance of preserving sites of conscience. Lynn Boylan on the EU, Ryanair and Hare Coursing:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-163437304 The Exclusive Whistleblowers series:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-163159955

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Asmaa Dwimah is a Palestinian writer, poet, artist and dentist from Gaza. She is currently pursuing her Masters Degree in Public Health in London. In this PalCast she shares her experience of life in two worlds, her writings and exploring loss, resilience, identity and bearing witness. MEP Lynn Boylan podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-163437304 The EU Presidency Podcast with Rory Hearne:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-163350431

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack podcast, Tony and Mexico-based Colombian journalist with El Pais, Nicholas Dale Leal, discuss the recent natural disasters in Venezuela, the political landscape in Colombia, and the economic reforms in Cuba. They explore the impact of these events on local populations and the broader implications for Latin America. They also discuss Nicholas's visit to the Azteca Stadium. The Whistleblowers - In Their Own Words out now:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-163159955 Palestinian Writer and Public Health expert Asmaa Dwimah podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-163325467

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack podcast, Tony is rejoined by Writer, Commentator and Community Advocate, Elaine Crory to discuss the Jeffrey Donaldson case, sexual violence, challenges within the justice system, and societal issues across the island of Ireland. They explore the impact of political power, rape myths, and systemic failures on justice and social progress. The Whistleblowers Podcast - In Their Own Words:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-163145416 The Venezuelan Earthquake podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-162431599

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Yahia Lababidi is an Arab American poet and essayist of Palestinian descent, and the author of sixteen books. His work appears in Liberties, Salmagundi, The Threepenny Review, Dissent, The New Statesman, The New Arab, and DAWN, among others. His recent books include Palestine Wail (Daraja Press, 2024), written in the first months of Israel's assault on Gaza, and What Remains to Be Said (Wild Goose Publications, 2025). His forthcoming essay collection, If You Cannot Say GENOCIDE: Essays on Conscience and Witness, will be published by New Village Press in October 2026 and distributed by NYU Press. He divides his time between the United States and Colombia. The Book is available here:https://nyupress.org/9781613323045/if-you-cannot-say-genocide/ The Venezuelan Earthquake podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-162431599

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack podcast, solicitor Cathal Malone discusses the impact of proposed (resulting in dozens of solicitors walking out) changes to Ireland's criminal legal aid fee structure, the long-time underfunding of the justice system, and the broader implications for access to justice. The conversation highlights the disconnect between policy intentions and real-world effects on vulnerable populations. Minister Jim O'Callaghan's run of doing Crazy Jim O'Callaghan stuff continues. Elaine Crory on Jeffrey Donaldson, Sexual Violence and Rape Myths:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-162722611 Author of If You Cannot Say Genocide, Yahia Lababidi podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-162503281

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack podcast, Senator Lynn Ruane returns to talk about the cross-party Oireachtas Committee Report on Drug Use. She discusses the report's recommendations, harm reduction, decriminalisation, and trauma-informed care, emphasising the need for evidence-based policies and community-led initiatives to reduce drug-related harm. We also get into the Government and Garda response. Do not skip this one. Petro Speech: https://portside.org/2022-09-24/colombian-president-gustavo-petro-calls-end-war-drugs-historic-un-address Oireachtas Report:https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/committees/34/drugs-use/ Constantin Gurdgiev on Trump, the AI economy and more:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-161617099

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Eoin Ó Broin is back to discuss Ireland's housing crisis, recent legislative changes, and strategic solutions to address homelessness and housing affordability. We also get involved in cross-party efforts (or lack thereof), policy reforms, quick wins, and urgent actions needed to improve housing conditions. There's also chat about his role on the Sinn Féin front-bench and Eoin's feelings about the new Barak Obama centre. Lynn Ruane podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-162385343 Reporting from Occupied Palestine:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-162124288

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this episode, Tony is joined by PBP TD Paul Murphy to dig into the lay of the land in Irish politics, the current left-wing strategies for change, future coalition possibilities, and the influence of global corporations on our current political realm. Paul explores and gives his take on the challenges and opportunities for building a progressive government in Ireland that does not include Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael. Contantin Gurdgiev on US politics and the global economy:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-161617099 Two Palestinian journalists on life and reporting in Occupied Palestine: https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-162124288

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Sondos Sabra is a Palestinian writer from Gaza and co-author of Voices of Resistance, currently pursuing a master's degree in Creative Writing in the UK. She joins us to discuss her experience of the genocide, the harsh reality of the famine she endured, the loss of several of her family and the heartache of planning for a future when everything is stuck in a worsening present. Paul Murphy wants to go into Government podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-160886543

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack "This week Jim O'Callaghan, the Minister for Justice, stood up and explained why his plan to give the Garda Síochána powers to use AI to surveil the public didn't need the safeguards set down in EU law." Tony and solicitor Simon McGarr jump into the recent legislative proposals and developments surrounding biometric data and AI law in Ireland. Simon examines the implications of new bills, what these mean in terms of EU regulations and laws, and the potential risks to privacy and civil liberties. Welcome to the Ballad of Biometrics, Vol 2. Paul Murphy wants to go into Government podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-160886543

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack podcast, Tony and Nicolas Dale Leal, a Mexico-based journalist with El País, discuss the intersection of politics, football, and current events in Latin America and beyond. They examine the impact of protests during the World Cup in Mexico, the political landscapes in Colombia, Peru, and Brazil, and the influence of global figures such as Bukele and Lula. Nicholas gives his assessment of the Colombian Presidential Election and the optimistic view is not that great. But hope springs eternal, then it kills you. Liam Cunningham podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-159915188 Support the Hind Rajab Centre:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack “The People's Forum on Peace and Neutrality has been organised in a context where the EU policy of rearmament, with an increased reliance on weapons production, calls in to question its origins as a peace project and its commitment to UN authority, diplomacy and peaceful conflict resolution.” Joining me this evening from the Neutrality Roadshow is Rory Rowan and (legend) Niamh Ní Bhrian to discuss the even this weekend that'll feature the likes of Francesca Albanese and (tortoise shack exclusive reveal) Michael D. Higgins. Beyond the forum, this is a great conversation about a battle for neutrality that we need to take to this uncaring government. The Jim O'Callaghan Humpty Dumpty podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-160993442 Tickets:https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/peoples-forum-on-peace-and-neutrality-june-19th-and-20th-tickets-1991047790539?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1*bv64pw*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTgwOTIyODY4NC4xNzgwNTcxNjg4*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3ODA1NzE2ODYkbzEkZzEkdDE3ODA1NzE3OTEkajYwJGwwJGgw

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Mohammed R. Isdodi is an English language student from Al-Azhar University whose studies were interrupted by the war. He rejoins us from a "hub" in Gaza City to update us on the latest situation on the ground, the struggle for basics like clean water and his work with others of telling their stories of the last almost three years. He offers a poignant insight into something he has written about the Gaza he walks through today and the one that exists now only in his mind. Mikey Cullen's Sumud Flotilla Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-160504651 Liam Cunningham podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-159915188 Support the Hind Rajab Centre:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack podcast, Tony is rejoined by writer, commentator and activist, Emma DeSouza to analyse the recent riots, racially motivated violence and social unrest in Northern Ireland. Emma explores the underlying causes, societal impacts, and the role of social media, political rhetoric and some mainstream media players. They try to emphasise the importance of community resilience, constructive dialogue and the need to improve the lot of everyone on this shared island of ours. Simon McGarr on Minister Jim O'Callaghan's Humpty Dumpty moment:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-160993442 Mikey Cullen on the Sumud Flotilla:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-160504651 Support the Hind Rajab Centre:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Tortoise Shack special, Tony speaks with writer, columnist, community advocate and Belfast woman, Elaine Crory about the recent riots in the city, community resilience in the face of political failure, and the complex issues surrounding violence and social cohesion in Northern Ireland. She explains how community members stepped up, showing solidarity while the State played the blame-game and they discuss the role of Loyalist Paramilitaries influence in fuelling the pogroms. Emma DeSouza on the Belfast Riots and the tolerance for violence:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-160803238 The Liam Cunningham podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-159915188 The Hind Rajab Centre:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Time and time again, the disabled and carer community are left behind. When the Government found over 700m for the fuel protests, while saying they couldn't pay out an emergency 145m cost of disability payment the message was loud and clear; you don't matter enough in our economic model. Joining us on the podcast to discuss the inherent unfairness of our divide and rule system, which means people compete for resources, are Head of Advocacy with the Irish Wheelchair Association, Joan Carthy and cofounder of Access for All, Bernard Mulvany. We need solidarity. We need to join the dots and to take action. Elaine Crory in Belfast podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-160833001 Liam Cunningham podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-159915188 Support Ionad Hind Rajab:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/