Podcasts about irish defence forces

Europe faces an acute and growing threat. The EU Joint White Paper for European Defence Readiness 2030 outlines how Europe will need to do more to ensure to protect European citizens. This IIEA panel discusses how Europe can develop its capabilities. Moreover, it explores how European Member States can collaborate effectively to replenish diminished stocks of equipment to not only provide for their own security, but also to meaningfully support partners such as Ukraine in their defence against Russia's war of aggression. This event has been organised in association with the European Commission Representation in Ireland. Speakers include: Minister Thomas Byrne, Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence Guillaume de la Brosse, Head of Unit for Defence Policy and Innovation at DG DEFIS Brigadier General (Retired) Tony Cudmore, Former Brigadier General in the Irish Defence Forces and Adjunct Lecturer at Maynooth University Dr Alice Ekman, Research Director at the EU Institute for Strategic Studies (EUISS) Professor Brigid Laffan, Emeritus Professor at the European University Institute. This event was moderated by Catherine Day, Former Secretary-General of the European Commission and IIEA Board member

An 84-year-old man, whose son was shot dead while serving with the Irish Defence Forces, has been told that he is not entitled to keep an allowance which was granted to his late wife. John McNeela speaks to This Week, and then we hear from Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD has officially launched the Springboard+ 2025 programme, announcing almost 8,000 free and subsidised places on higher education courses. The initiative offers thousands of opportunities for people across Ireland to upskill or reskill, with a strong focus on 'futureproofing' careers in a rapidly evolving job market. Announcing this year's programme, Minister Lawless said: "Springboard+ is one of the most impactful investments this Government makes in the further education of its people. These courses are designed to respond directly to evolving skills demands, particularly in fast-growing and high-impact sectors. It offers thousands of learners the chance to upskill or reskill in areas where Ireland needs talent, from artificial intelligence to infrastructure planning to cybersecurity. "As Minister, I'm proud to support Springboard+ with €34.4 million from the National Training Fund. This programme empowers people to study alongside work and personal commitments with courses that are heavily subsidised or free, making upskilling more accessible and achievable for everyone. I encourage everyone to look at what is available as whether you're advancing in your current career, pivoting to a new one, or stepping onto the career ladder for the first time, Springboard+ is designed to open doors in an affordable, flexible way that has real career impact." This year, courses are available in areas such as Infrastructure planning, Sustainable Building, Renewable Energy, Digital Skills, Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence. Two-thirds of people considering a Springboard+ course want to 'futureproof their careers' in an ever-changing workplace. That's according to research published today by the Higher Education Authority (HEA). The Springboard+ programme is funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and in 2025, a total of 7,719 places are available on 249 courses delivered by 37 higher education institutes nationwide. Springboard+ is making 26 'micro-credentials' from this course list available for those interested in shorter courses to upskill in very specific areas. Speaking about this year's programme, Dr Vivienne Patterson, Head of Skills, Engagement and Statistics at the Higher Education Authority, said: "There are many reasons to consider a Springboard+ course, but the two key benefits are the cost and the quality. "If you're eligible to apply for a full- or part-time Springboard+ course, the most you'll pay is 10% of the fees. If you're currently out of work, you'll be 100% subsidised through the Springboard+ programme. The micro-credentials courses, which last around 12 weeks, are 50% subsidised for all participants. "And in terms of the quality of the course and the qualification at the end of it - courses range from Certificate (Level 6) to Masters (Level 9) on the National Framework of Qualifications and are delivered by the best public and private higher education providers around the country." Sean McCaffrey, from Dundalk, spent 16 years in the Irish Defence Forces before completing a Certificate in Procurement Management from University College Cork and a Post Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership in Business from Technological University Dublin. He now works for Iarnród Éireann. "I left school at 18 without completing my Leaving Certificate. I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life, so I joined the Irish Defence Forces, where I spent 16 years. After leaving, I decided to pursue my first Springboard+ course - a Certificate in Procurement Management from University College Cor,k after which I was offered a job in Iarnród Éireann - a job I wouldn't have been in the running for only for my Springboard+ course. "I saw tangible benefits immediately, so it was a no-brainer to start a level nine Post Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership in Business from...

In a world with increasing conflicts, governments are under pressure to increase their defence spending. In Ireland, the government announced a record €1.4 billion defence budget for 2025. This trend makes the production and exporting of dual-use technologies fundamentally strategic for international markets. Pat O'Connor has experienced this with his company VRAI, which he founded in 2017. Pat  believes that dual-use technologies will continue to play a big role in our economies and I recently caught up with him.Pat talks about his background, the startup journey, simulation technology, dual use technology, and more.More about Pat O'Connor:Pat O'Connor is a Co-Founder and CEO of VRAI. He served in the Irish Defence Forces for over 20 years, where he undertook a variety of roles, including Reconnaissance Unit Commander, Deputy Director of Communications and as a spokesperson for Three Irish Chiefs of Defence.  He also completed over three years of operationally deployed service with the United Nations' Peacekeeping and Peace Enforcement missions in Liberia, Syria, Lebanon and Israel. Pat also has an M.A. in Political and Public Communication as well as an MSc in Business, Leadership and Management and founded VRAI alongside Niall Campion in 2017 to provide greater simulation training technology to military forces.

In a world with increasing conflicts, governments are under pressure to increase their defence spending. In Ireland, the government announced a record €1.4 billion defence budget for 2025. This trend makes the production and exporting of dual-use technologies fundamentally strategic for international markets. Pat O'Connor has experienced this with his company VRAI, which he founded in 2017. Pat believes that dual-use technologies will continue to play a big role in our economies and I recently caught up with him. Pat talks about his background, the startup journey, simulation technology, dual use technology, and more. More about Pat O'Connor: Pat O'Connor is a Co-Founder and CEO of VRAI. He served in the Irish Defence Forces for over 20 years, where he undertook a variety of roles, including Reconnaissance Unit Commander, Deputy Director of Communications and as a spokesperson for Three Irish Chiefs of Defence. He also completed over three years of operationally deployed service with the United Nations' Peacekeeping and Peace Enforcement missions in Liberia, Syria, Lebanon and Israel. Pat also has an M.A. in Political and Public Communication as well as an MSc in Business, Leadership and Management and founded VRAI alongside Niall Campion in 2017 to provide greater simulation training technology to military forces. See more podcasts here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

My guest this week is ex Irish Defence Forces soldier Kevin McDonald. Kevin served in Irelands Special Forces during the conflict that rocked the island.Kevin tells us about his involvement in the one of the biggest man hunts in the state's history when INLA kidnapper Dessie O' Hare was on the run. He shares with us the atmosphere amongst his fellow soldiers as they searched for one of the North's most infamous paramilitaries.Kevin talks about IRA training camps in the  south and his efforts to thwart them as well as some of the techniques used by the provos to conceal their camps.I asked Kevin about levels of support within the Army for the IRA or at least its aims, feelings towards the British Army and much more.00:00 DESSIE O' HARE HUNT 13:45 Joining Army 26:30 Bloody Sunday35:54 Support for the IRA within the Army ?44:40 IRA TRAINING CAMPS52:35 “Shoot to Kill” policy ?PLEASE HELP OUT THE SHOW IF YOU CAN SPARE IT.. THANK YOUhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/goodlistenerpodcast BUY THE BOOK: https://www.mayobooks.ie/A-Life-Less-Ordinary-Kevin-McDonald?__im-GfVUNiDv=263418128045112242900:00 DESSIE O' HARE HUNT 13:45 Joining Army 26:30 Bloody Sunday35:54 Support for the IRA within the Army ?44:40 IRA TRAINING CAMPS52:35 “Shoot to Kill” policy ?

Those who died in both World Wars from County Clare will be remembered this coming weekend. The Services of Remembrance for those who lost their lives in World War I, World War II and all international conflicts will take place at the Clare World War memorials at Causeway Link here in Ennis. To get more details on this, Alan Morrissey was joined by Chairperson of Clare Peace Park Initiative, Dr. Keir McNamara and Head Chaplin of the Irish Defence Forces, Fr. Paschal Hanrahan. Photo (c) Keir McNamara

Colin Sheridan, former Commandant in the Irish Defence Forces; Seán Fleming, Minister of State at the Department of Finance; Louise O'Reilly, Sinn Féin TD for Dublin Fingal; Marian Harkin, Independent TD for Sligo-Leitrim

For many in the Defence Forces, their job is a vocation.They live a life less ordinary than most, yet one of order, discipline and battle. This type of career is not without its struggles, but what happens when it ends?Seán is joined by Chris Donovan, Irish Veteran and ONE Resident, to discuss.

For many in the Defence Forces, their job is a vocation.They live a life less ordinary than most, yet one of order, discipline and battle. This type of career is not without its struggles, but what happens when it ends?Seán is joined by Chris Donovan, Irish Veteran and ONE Resident, to discuss.

The Defence Forces 124th Infantry Battalion has 379 troops in Lebanon at present operating in a UNIFIL mission as middle east tensions are heightened with the Israeli attacks on Lebanon, the Iranian attacks on Israel and the continuing war on Gaza. Lt General Sean Clancy speaks to Sarah.

Ray Lane, Retired Lieutenant Colonel with Irish Defence Forces and Author ‘Only A Soldier Knows'

Cathal Berry, TD for Kildare South, discusses the death of a former Irish soldier who was fighting with the Ukraine army.

Security and Defence analyst Declan Power on the risks to Irish personnel as tensions rise in southern Lebanon

John Mulhall, is a cloud engineer and a regular contributor to Irish Tech News. Tomorrow his first novel, From Terror to Valor: Echoes and Shadows. I caught up with John to talk about his debut novel. John talks about his background, his debut novel, how his military and tech background helped him write his novel and more More about John Mulhall: John is a versatile author known for his gripping fiction narratives in the thriller, action, and suspense genres. With a background as a Journalist, and expertise in cloud technologies as an engineer; John brings a unique blend of storytelling prowess and technical acumen to his work.  His professional journey began in the Irish Defence Forces, honing his skills in security before transitioning to financial operations and management for over 12 years. 

John Mulhall, is a cloud engineer and a regular contributor to Irish Tech News. Tomorrow his first novel, From Terror to Valor: Echoes and Shadows. I caught up with John to talk about his debut novel. John talks about his background, his debut novel, how his military and tech background helped him write his novel and more. More about John Mulhall: John is a versatile author known for his gripping fiction narratives in the thriller, action, and suspense genres. With a background as a Journalist, and expertise in cloud technologies as an engineer; John brings a unique blend of storytelling prowess and technical acumen to his work. His professional journey began in the Irish Defence Forces, honing his skills in security before transitioning to financial operations and management for over 12 years. See more podcasts here.

Lieutenant Colonel Conor King, General Secretary of the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers, reacts to the retirement age for the Irish Defence Forces being increase to 62 years old.

Connor King, General Secretary of RACO (The Representative Association of Commissioned Officers) responds to the attack on Fr Paul Murphy, army chaplain for the Irish Defence Forces' base in Galway

This episode was originally published in April 2024. In Libya, former members of the Irish Defence Forces, including men who served in the elite Army Rangers Wing have been providing training for a militia headed up Libyan strongman, Khalifa Haftar.It's a lucrative business for the company called Irish Training Solutions but the work is an apparent breach of a United Nations arms embargo imposed on the volatile African country.Naomi O'Leary broke the story in the Irish Times on Wednesday and the official response was swift. Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin called the revelations “deeply shocking”, saying that they cause “reputational damage to Ireland and our Defence Forces”.O'Leary tells In the News about the sort of military training being provided by these former Irish soldiers, who is behind Irish Training Solutions, how much money is involved and, with providing military training in Libya specifically prohibited by the UN, what it means for the reputation of the Irish Defence Forces.Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Suzanne Brennan and Declan Conlon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In May 2022, Natasha O'Brien was walking home after work when she was violently assaulted by a serving member of the Irish Defence Forces. Her attacker fled the scene immediately after and later boasted about the incident on social media to his friends.The court was told he initially tried to blame the victim for what happened. But after being shown CCTV footage of the incident he admitted that his account of the event was ‘all wrong'For the first time, Natasha tells her story in full exclusively to Left On Read podcast. She talks us through what happened on that awful night, how the justice system let her and countless other victims of violence down and how she's now fighting for cultural, social and legislative change.RESOURCES:You are never alone. Womens Aid Ireland 24hr National Freephone Helpline 1800 341900 ‘Always here if you need us'Follow Julie, Brenda and the pod for all the latest news and updates.

Woman's Hour has invited the leaders of all the main political parties for an interview in the run-up to the General Election. Today, in place of the Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, Nuala McGovern is joined by Christine Jardine, the party's Women and Equalities spokesperson.Danish actress Sofie Gråbøl is best known to British viewers for her role as Sarah Lund in Scandi Noir crime drama The Killing. Now she's returning to our cinema screens in a new film, Rose. Sophie plays Inger, a woman with serious mental health challenges, who takes a bus trip to Paris with her sister, Ellen. She discusses how she researched the character of Inger, by talking to the real woman that she is based on. At the start of the month, comedian Grace Campbell wrote candidly about her mental health struggles after having an abortion and the response to her piece has been overwhelming. She speaks to Nuala about her experience, being pro-choice and how she's sharing this as part of her stand-up. Last weekend protests were held in four cities in the Republic of Ireland calling for justice after a serving soldier was given a suspended sentence for an attack on a woman which left her unconscious and with a broken nose. The Irish Defence Forces have confirmed that a review has been launched. Yesterday the protests continued outside the Dail, the Irish Assembly and Natasha was given a standing ovation inside as she watched from the public gallery. Presented by Nuala McGovern Producer: Louise Corley

There have been further reactions to Natasha O'Brien's assaulter Cathal Crotty, member of the Irish Defence Forces walking free following a suspended sentence. She was attacked unprovoked in Limerick, which left her unconscious. Since the verdict, Limerick Pride have released a statement that says they do not welcome Defence Forces in their uniform at their parade.Joining Kieran to give their reactions to the case and discuss is Brian Merriman, Founder of the International Gay Theatre Festival and Cynthi Ní Mhuirchu, MEP for Ireland South.

While war still rages in Gaza, there is a conflict in the north, with Hasbullah and Israel launching rockets at each other - and Irish troops are stuck in the middle of it.Tom Clonan, Senator and former Army Officer who served in the region, joins Seán to talk about the history of the conflict and why we're there today.

Marc McMenamin's Ireland's Secret War: Dan Bryan, G2 and the Lost Tapes that Reveal The Hunt for Ireland's Nazi Spies (Gill Books, 2022) is a thrilling account of the true extent of Irish-Allied co-operation during World War II. It reveals strategic Nazi intentions for Ireland and the real role of leading government figures of the time, placing Dan Bryan and G2 - the military intelligence branch of the Irish Defence Forces - firmly at the centre of the country's battle against Nazi Germany. With the help of over thirty-five hours of previously unpublished audio recordings that were held in storage in northern California for over fifty years, McMenamin reveals the extraordinary unheard history of WWII in Ireland, told from the point of view of the main protagonists. Fascinating and entertaining, Ireland's Secret War reassesses the legacy of the Irish contribution to the Allied war effort through the voices of those involved at the time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Marc McMenamin's Ireland's Secret War: Dan Bryan, G2 and the Lost Tapes that Reveal The Hunt for Ireland's Nazi Spies (Gill Books, 2022) is a thrilling account of the true extent of Irish-Allied co-operation during World War II. It reveals strategic Nazi intentions for Ireland and the real role of leading government figures of the time, placing Dan Bryan and G2 - the military intelligence branch of the Irish Defence Forces - firmly at the centre of the country's battle against Nazi Germany. With the help of over thirty-five hours of previously unpublished audio recordings that were held in storage in northern California for over fifty years, McMenamin reveals the extraordinary unheard history of WWII in Ireland, told from the point of view of the main protagonists. Fascinating and entertaining, Ireland's Secret War reassesses the legacy of the Irish contribution to the Allied war effort through the voices of those involved at the time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Marc McMenamin's Ireland's Secret War: Dan Bryan, G2 and the Lost Tapes that Reveal The Hunt for Ireland's Nazi Spies (Gill Books, 2022) is a thrilling account of the true extent of Irish-Allied co-operation during World War II. It reveals strategic Nazi intentions for Ireland and the real role of leading government figures of the time, placing Dan Bryan and G2 - the military intelligence branch of the Irish Defence Forces - firmly at the centre of the country's battle against Nazi Germany. With the help of over thirty-five hours of previously unpublished audio recordings that were held in storage in northern California for over fifty years, McMenamin reveals the extraordinary unheard history of WWII in Ireland, told from the point of view of the main protagonists. Fascinating and entertaining, Ireland's Secret War reassesses the legacy of the Irish contribution to the Allied war effort through the voices of those involved at the time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/military-history

Marc McMenamin's Ireland's Secret War: Dan Bryan, G2 and the Lost Tapes that Reveal The Hunt for Ireland's Nazi Spies (Gill Books, 2022) is a thrilling account of the true extent of Irish-Allied co-operation during World War II. It reveals strategic Nazi intentions for Ireland and the real role of leading government figures of the time, placing Dan Bryan and G2 - the military intelligence branch of the Irish Defence Forces - firmly at the centre of the country's battle against Nazi Germany. With the help of over thirty-five hours of previously unpublished audio recordings that were held in storage in northern California for over fifty years, McMenamin reveals the extraordinary unheard history of WWII in Ireland, told from the point of view of the main protagonists. Fascinating and entertaining, Ireland's Secret War reassesses the legacy of the Irish contribution to the Allied war effort through the voices of those involved at the time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marc McMenamin's Ireland's Secret War: Dan Bryan, G2 and the Lost Tapes that Reveal The Hunt for Ireland's Nazi Spies (Gill Books, 2022) is a thrilling account of the true extent of Irish-Allied co-operation during World War II. It reveals strategic Nazi intentions for Ireland and the real role of leading government figures of the time, placing Dan Bryan and G2 - the military intelligence branch of the Irish Defence Forces - firmly at the centre of the country's battle against Nazi Germany. With the help of over thirty-five hours of previously unpublished audio recordings that were held in storage in northern California for over fifty years, McMenamin reveals the extraordinary unheard history of WWII in Ireland, told from the point of view of the main protagonists. Fascinating and entertaining, Ireland's Secret War reassesses the legacy of the Irish contribution to the Allied war effort through the voices of those involved at the time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/national-security

Marc McMenamin's Ireland's Secret War: Dan Bryan, G2 and the Lost Tapes that Reveal The Hunt for Ireland's Nazi Spies (Gill Books, 2022) is a thrilling account of the true extent of Irish-Allied co-operation during World War II. It reveals strategic Nazi intentions for Ireland and the real role of leading government figures of the time, placing Dan Bryan and G2 - the military intelligence branch of the Irish Defence Forces - firmly at the centre of the country's battle against Nazi Germany. With the help of over thirty-five hours of previously unpublished audio recordings that were held in storage in northern California for over fifty years, McMenamin reveals the extraordinary unheard history of WWII in Ireland, told from the point of view of the main protagonists. Fascinating and entertaining, Ireland's Secret War reassesses the legacy of the Irish contribution to the Allied war effort through the voices of those involved at the time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/european-studies

In Libya, former members of the Irish Defence Forces, including men who served in the elite Army Rangers Wing have been providing training for a militia headed up Libyan strongman, Khalifa Haftar.It's a lucrative business for the company called Irish Training Solutions but the work is an apparent breach of a United Nations arms embargo imposed on the volatile African country.Naomi O'Leary broke the story in the Irish Times on Wednesday and the official response was swift. Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin called the revelations “deeply shocking”, saying that they cause “reputational damage to Ireland and our Defence Forces”.O'Leary tells In the News about the sort of military training being provided by these former Irish soldiers, who is behind Irish Training Solutions, how much money is involved and, with providing military training in Libya specifically prohibited by the UN, what it means for the reputation of the Irish Defence Forces.Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Suzanne Brennan and Declan Conlon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From tomorrow, the Irish Defence Forces sees a relaxation of their dress code such as allowing beards, pony tails and painted nails. Joining Ciara to discuss the implications and the rationale behind these changes is Keith Caffrey, the Defence Forces Sergeant Major.

For the first time in the Irish Defence Forces' history, soldiers will be allowed to have beards while on duty. It's one of a few new dress code changes being brought in starting from tomorrow. But does it really matter what members of the Defence Forces look like?Andrea was joined by Kevin Byrne, Retired Lieutenant Colonel and others to discuss...

As concerns grow over the possibility of an escalation of the violence in the Middle East, Pat is joined by Lieutenant Colonel Fiachra Keyes for an update on the Irish Defence Forces situated in Lebanon.

Mark Keane, President of PDFORRA, reacts to the publication of the Detailed Implementation Plan for the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces.

A critical emergency response training operation will take place at Shannon Airport today. The event code named 'Excercise Charlie' will last two hours and will simulate an unknown live scenario that could range anywhere from a medical incident , a terrorism threat or hostage situation. The multi-agency excercise will involve units of the HSE, Clare Gardaí, Clare Fire Service, the Irish Coastguard and the Irish Defence Forces. Director of Operations at Shannon Airport Pamela Brooks says a successful outcome is vital for the airport's reputation.

An unusual competition took place in the Wicklow Mountains over the past few days, involving sharpshooters from all over the world. The International Sniper Competition Ireland saw competitors out-snaring each other on the battlefield. What are the essential qualities of a marksman in this particular area? Sean was joined by Commandant Liam MacDonnell, Officer in Command and Chief instructor of the Infantry Weapons Wing in the Irish Defence Forces...

In this bonus episode of the first season, historian and Western Front Association Trustee, Gerry White delves into Ireland's military history from 1912 to 1923. Gerry, who served forty-three years in the Irish Defence Forces and retired in 2017, brings his expertise and insights to the discussion. The talk begins with the formation of the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) and the Irish Volunteers. In 1912, the Ulster Volunteer Force was established by Unionists in Ulster to resist home rule for Ireland. In response, the Irish Volunteers were formed in 1913 by nationalists to support the cause of Irish independence. Gerry goes on to explore the impact of World War I (1914-1918) on these groups. As the war broke out, both the UVF and the Irish Volunteers split on their positions regarding the conflict. Many Irish Volunteers joined the British Army, forming regiments such as the Irish Guards and the Royal Dublin Fusiliers. During the discussion, Gerry White highlights the significant contribution of Irish divisions during the Battle of the Somme in World War I. He specifically mentions the 10th (Irish Division), the 16th Irish Division, and the 36th Ulster Division. These divisions, composed of Irish soldiers from various backgrounds, fought bravely in the grueling battles on the Somme, leaving a lasting impact on Irish military history. The discussion then moves to the significant event of the Easter Rising in 1916. Gerry highlights how the Irish Republican Brotherhood, alongside other nationalist groups, staged an armed rebellion in Dublin. Although the Rising initially failed, it had a profound influence on Irish public opinion and laid the groundwork for future independence movements. The focus then shifts to the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921), during which the Irish Republican Army (IRA) emerged as the military wing of Sinn Féin. Engaging in guerrilla warfare against British forces, the IRA targeted police, military installations, and British sympathizers. This conflict ultimately led to the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty in 1921, which resulted in the partition of Ireland into Northern Ireland (remaining part of the UK) and the Irish Free State. The final topic discussed is the Irish Civil War (1922-1923), which was triggered by the split within the nationalist movement following the Anglo-Irish Treaty. Gerry explains how those who supported the treaty, led by Michael Collins, formed the Provisional Government of the Irish Free State, while those opposed, led by Éamon de Valera, organized the anti-treaty forces. The ensuing civil war saw clashes between these factions, resulting in the defeat of the anti-treaty forces and the establishment of the Irish Free State. Aside from his extensive military service, Gerry has represented Ireland at the Centenary Commemoration of the Battle of the Somme at Thiepval in 2016. He has also authored several books and articles on aspects of Irish military history for the period 1913 to 1923 and frequently lectures on the subject. Currently, Gerry is actively involved in building the WFA organization on the island of Ireland.

Last Thursday marked a major milestone for the Irish Space Association (ISA) as it held its inaugural meeting at DCU Alpha. Chaired by John Halligan, the event brought together key figures in the industry to discuss the future of the space sector in Ireland and highlight the immense opportunities for Irish companies operating in the sector. Speakers on the day included representatives from the ISA Committee, DCU Alpha, Ubotica, Enbio, Drone Consultants Ireland, and Viasat, as well as the Irish Defence Forces. The diverse range of topics covered, from AI in space and flying close to the sun, to the future of the drone sector in Ireland, showcased the breadth and depth of Ireland's capabilities in the space sector. The ISA, officially launched in April 2023 at Enterprise Ireland's headquarters in Dublin, was formed in response to the rapid growth of the space industry in Ireland and the need for sector-level representation. This inaugural meeting represents a significant step forward in the Association's mission to support the Irish space sector's growth and competitiveness, foster collaboration, and ensure sectoral representation on both the national and international stages. In Thursday's meeting, the underlying sentiment was clear: the Irish space sector is ripe with opportunity. As the global space sector is expected to grow to $1.3T by 2030, Irish companies are well-positioned to seize a larger share of this market. The ISA is committed to supporting these companies, capitalising on the nation's collective strengths and expertise, and enabling Ireland to be at the forefront of space innovation and technology. Thursday's meeting is just the beginning, and the ISA looks forward to driving continued momentum and success in Ireland's space sector.

A former General of the Irish Defence Forces is calling for the establishment of an Air Policing Fighter Squadron base at Shannon Airport. It comes as the Government's Consultative Forum on International Security is underway in Cork today with subsequent meetings to take place later this week in Galway & Dublin with a view to determining the future of the state's foreign policy.

Matthew, a soldier in the Irish Defence Forces, always had a difficult relationship with his grandmother, right up until her death. So can it really be her spirit who saves him from dying in the years that follow? Written and presented by Danny Robins Editor and Sound Designer: Charlie Brandon-King Music: Evelyn Sykes Theme Music by Lanterns on the Lake Script assistant: Leo Dunlop Produced by Danny Robins and Simon Barnard A Bafflegab and Uncanny Media production for BBC Radio 4

The new TV Series 'The Silent Civil War'; a new comprehensive history of The Irish Defence Forces; and the life of Irish writer Robert Tressell.

Eoin Kinsella on his new book which covers a century of The Irish Defence Forces.

Gavan, Richard and Zara talk Ireland's misleading housing promises & some out of touch comments made by a government TD that had Zara in shock. The Irish Defence Forces' abuse against women has been detailed in a report raising the question, “will things ever change?"An image of the pope wearing a stylish winter coat turned out to be completely AI generated. Will AI change society to a point where "seeing is no longer believing?"Gwyneth Paltrow is in court for 'ski-gate', Succession is back and "the vibes in Irish sport have never been as positive as right now" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We hear from callers affected by the life-threatening Marfan Syndrome. We also hear an update on the report into gender issues within the Irish Defence Forces. Dermot rang in about anti-social behaviour in his apartment complex, and Jack has had his electric car charger stolen. Nicole is helping listeners pronounce Van Gogh the Dutch way.

Billy Hedderman : UnbowedBilly Hedderman is married to Rita and they have 2 girls, Lana who's 5.5 and Isobel who's 3.5 and they live in Australia.Originally from Cork, he served in the Irish Defence Forces for 13 years which included successfully completing the Army Ranger Selection Process when he was only 20.But his greatest challenge came in the form of a body boarding accident on New Years Eve in 2014, in which he suffered immediate spinal cord damage, paralysing him from the neck down.But within 7.5 months he had ran a 10k and not too long after that he returned to one of his passions which is skydiving!This conversation is an amazing story of psychological resilience and determination when faced with a life changing quadriplegic diagnosis and I think you are going to take so much from it.If you're a fan of my pod, please follow, rate and review in all the usual places. And thanks, as always, for your support of Ready to be Real. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The remains of Private Seán Rooney, who was killed in an ambush while serving on a United Nations (UN) mission in Lebanon on Wednesday night, have returned home to Ireland this morning. Three separate investigations are being conducted into the incident by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, Lebanese authorities led by a military prosecutor, and the Irish Defence Forces. Sean was joined by Foreign Reporter based in Beirut, Hannah McCarthy…

This week Ryan spoke to writer Louise Penny. Ryan also spoke to Seán Clancy Lt. General , Chief of Staff, Irish Defence Forces. Oliver spoke to Síne Dunne who set up Siest Sleep. He also spoke to Padraig Cusack about the documentary called Cyril Cusack Lár Na Státise.

Simon Coveney, Minister for Defence, reacts to the news that a member of the Irish Defence Forces has been killed while on a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon.

Lieutenant General Seán Clancy is the Chief of Staff of the Irish Defence Forces since September 2021.

Conor King, General Secretary of the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers, (RACO) discusses the increase in Defence Forces' spending to €1.5 billion a year by 2028.