The Policed Podcast: Recent Episodes
Tortoise Shack Media
Welcome to Policed, the podcast that seeks to capture the experiences people have with the police, and put those voices front and centre.
Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshackOn April 19th a 23 year old woman was shot and killed by police in North Macedonia, after having her asylum application rejected in Greece. Fatmata was a warm and lively young woman. She had recently told her husband, Abu Bakar, that she was pregnant. Her friends and family are devastated, but are seeking justice for Fatmata in the hopes that incidents like this will not reoccur.Joining us from North Macedonia is founder of secondtree.org and friend of Fatmata and Abu Bakar, Giovanni Fontana. He tells us about the wonderful woman he knew, the dangers Fortress Europe and bad migrant policies are creating and how the fight for justice for Fatmata is a fight for all.The Is Green Capitalism Possible reboot podcast is out now here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-82288728
Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshackIt was a pleasure to be rejoined on the podcast for the first time in 2023 by primary school teacher and INTO union activist, Jana Lyons, (speaking in a personal capacity) to discuss the recent changes and actions within her profession.We discuss that pay rise and what message it sends to ordinary members and we delve into the real issues and challenges facing teachers outside of the manufactured "gender" debates that seem to make the news with alarming regularity at the moment. Note: The Ditch episode is free until 10am on May 2nd.Listen for free now here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/no-paywall-on-82242776
Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshackYesterday at 1:20pm a man attempted to cut his way into a house in order to carry out an illegal eviction. The tenant, Dr Muhammad Raheel, confronted the landlord, who then approached him with an electric saw telling him that he'd split him open. The Doctor reported this attempted assault to his local Garda station. Nothing happened. Dr Raheel joined me, alongside several of his colleagues, to talk about this horrendous day, the events that led up to it and the message it sends to the immigrant medical community.Please listen.Here's the video:https://twitter.com/LiqaDr/status/1647996333083574273?s=20The podcast on how you (yes you) can stop illegal Air BnB's is out now here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-814996216
Here it is, our 1000th Episode. Thanks for listening, sharing, liking, hating and helping us highlight, fight and tackle the issues that matter as an independent activist-based platform. What a journey.Please come onboard for the next 1000 at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshackIn a tortoise shack exclusive, Green Party (for now?) TD, Neasa Hourigan, joined us for the first time since her her decision to vote against the government in relation to the temporary moratorium on no-fault evictions. It gets feisty.We discuss classism and crappy communications within the Green Party, the consistent allegations of bullying and misogyny, their achievements and or failures in Government relative to the ambitions set out in the Program for Govt, that Neasa helped negotiate and yet voted against.We also talk about Neasa's journey into politics and why she has stayed in a party that we think clearly would rather she'd just leave.Our #Echo1000 Episode is out now here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-only-80336544
Joining us to discuss the ongoing issues people affected by the Mother and Baby Homes and the Govts redress scheme and the tracing system is Social Democrats TD, Holly Cairns. She outlines the gaps and penny-pinching structures that the current coalition are calling "the biggest redress scheme in the history of the State". Note: It falls way short given the wrongs done and still been covered up. Raise your voice here:https://www.iccl.ie/take-action/standwithsurvivors/ Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
It was a pleasure to be joined by WTS Podcast Co-host, Graham Merro Merrigan, Latinist Academic, Siobhán McElduff, Sunday Times journalist, Aoife Moore and Mr Election Projections, Harry McEvansoneya. We talked Cllr Crowe's apology to the Traveller Community, Cuba voting for same sex marriage, Brazilian exit polls, the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis, Ireland's Future events, the no-budget bounce polls, housing and the homelessness stats that shame us all. Thanks for all the support over the last 900 episodes. Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Listeners loved the last podcast with Economic Justice campaigner, Accounting Professor and Co-founder of the Green New Deal, Richard Murphy, so he's back now to tell us about the new UK Prime Minister, Lizz Truss and her cabinet of right wing die-hard neoliberals. We discuss how unlikely this new government are to "deliver" for the people suffering from inflation and the cost of living crisis, what it means in the modern parlance to be a failed state and just how bad could it all get in the months ahead. So gloomy topics, but Richard also puts forward some more optimistic alternatives. We also look at what this all means for Ireland, the NI Protocol and that awful word stability. Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Follow Richard @RichardJMurphy for his excellent twitter threads.
In what happens to be the last episode recorded before she died, Vicky is joined by Dr Sindy Joyce and Dr Amanda Haynes of the University of Limerick, speaking about the findings of their recently published report on Irish Travellers Access to Justice. They discuss the reasons for conducting the research and how they went about doing it. They discuss the findings as they relate to issues of victims, stop and searches, arrests, detention and searches of homes. We see just how much members of the Traveller Community are under-policed and over-policed, and how this is traumatic and becomes inter-generational. This is a report of enormous significance which is equally upsetting, but which we commend to all our listeners to engage with. You can watch the launch of the project here: https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=1070251160543582 We are heartbroken. Rest in Power, Dr Vicky Conway.
Vicky is joined by barrister David Bryne to discuss the issue of Gardaí initiating and conducting prosecutions in the District Court. They discuss how that system currently works, what powers Gardaí have in that regard, and then turn to discuss why this is problematic. They also explore recent proposals for change, an important High Court decision in this space and consider what reform we might see. The issue of who starts the prosecution might seem niche but it is of real significance. Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this episode of Policed: The Beat Vicky speaks to Liam Herrick, Executive Director of the ICCL, about the Justice Minister's statement this week that it is intended to introduce the use of Facial Recognition Technology in Irish policing. Liam explains what FRT is, what it can do and why we should be hugely concerned at its use by any police force. He also outlines the international context and the moves towards its elimination. You can read more about the ICCL's I Do Not Consent petition here Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this important episode of Policed the Beat Vicky goes on a solo run, talking through one aspect of GSOC's 2021 Annual Report - data on deaths in custody. It's the first time we've been given such data ever. Vicky talks through what it means, but also the serious questions it generates. Do listen and recommend us! Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
On this episode of Policed The Beat, Vicky is joined by Echo Chamber Cohost, Tony Groves and Director of UglyMugs.ie, Lucy Smith. They discuss the recent story in the Irish Examiner by Aoife Moore - Hundreds of reports of men claiming to be Gardaí attacking sex workers - Here:https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40858064.html Lucy talks about the fears sex workers have in going to the Garda for help, the ways they feel dehumanised and how this mindset alongside inadequate laws has made them more vulnerable to predatory practices. We discuss what can be done and ask if there's any political will do actually do it. We want to thank Lucy for her time on what is an issue that needs much more coverage than it receives. Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this powerful and important panel, Vicky speaks to Selina and Louise McDermott who lost 3 siblings in the Stardust disaster. They speak openly about what it was like at the time of the fire and the impact on their family. Joined by Senator Lynn Boylan and solicitor Darragh Mackin we also cover how the state has failed the families through previous investigations and why the upcoming inquests are so important.
We are calling on you all to email your TD and the Minister for Justice Helen McEntee helen.mcentee@oireachtas.ie
Join us and help keep the mics on here
This week Tony was joined by Policed host Dr Vicky Conway and special guests PBP Clondalkin Rep, Darragh Adelaide, Writer and Activist, Emma DeSouza and Irish Examiner Reporter, Aoife Moore. We talk about the dropping of restrictions, the return of politics "before" Covid, the Govt saying that we need more Cuckoo funds, the disrespect shown to the All-island Women's Forum peacebuilding conference, the ludicrous ongoing NWCI spat, the latest from Ukraine and more.
To attend these regular live shows and help us keep the mics on please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This is the recording of our most recent Live Sunday Special with Fianna Fáil's Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, Socialist - Loyalist, Sam Mcilwaine and Writer, Chair of the Women's Forum and Sunday regular, Emma DeSouza.
We went on a deep dive on the political events across this Island and into a serious conversation on the upcoming NI election and the future of the NI Protocol. We discuss the Glasnevin Monument, more Collusion cases, inflation fears and how our market income inequality leaves us more exposed in a booming economy. We then discuss Political Accountability in the age of champagne parties, Golfgate and Boris Party Boy Johnson.
To attend these regular live podcasts join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
It was a great pleasure to be joined in the tortoise shack by Dr Arsalan Shahid. We discuss how he came from Pakistan to Ireland in 2016, had to give up his ambition to become a surgeon because of our non-training of immigrant doctors, was married in early 2020 and how now, after an earlier miscarriage, he and his lovely wife Namra Javed are due their first child any day now. All of this would be a time for celebration except the Irish state has refused a visa to Namra's mother a 3 month visa to help them after the birth of the baby. This is a cruel and ludicrous situation and we're urging you all to ask Minister Helen McEntee to intervene here.
Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Note: The Sunday Special is live for members from 12 and will be on the patreon feed shortly afterwards.
On this episode of Policed: the Beat, Vicky speaks to criminal defence lawyers Shalom Binchy and Michael Finucane about attendance at Garda interviews. We discuss what right lawyers have to be in the interview and why it matters. We also discuss currently proposals to legislate for attendance, and some of the significant problems with those proposals.
Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
It was an absolute pleasure to share this weeks Sunday Special with UHW Cancer Pharmacist, DJ Walsh, Writer and Activist, Emma DeSouza and Writer and one of the organisers of the bloodysunday50.com events, Tony Doherty.
We discuss the week ahead in Derry and Tony tells us about how even now 50 years on he remembers his father who was murdered that day. We discuss the recent events in politics both sides of the border, the handling of the collusion report, DUP double jobbing attempts and the Stormont election in May.
Then we talk about the reopening of society and DJ gives us his insight and talks us through the bad data that has given us bad policy. We also chat Irish political Lobbying and SIPO, Biden's 1yr Anniversary, social media getting blamed for everything and Simon Coveney still having Moet problems.
Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack and get plug free podcasts and loads of extras including access to these podcasts live online.
In this tortoise shack special Vicky and Martin were joined by Sinead Crowe, co-founder of the Instagram Community 'Intuitive Eating Ireland', registered dietitian Jo Moscalu, who specialises in eating disorders specifically 'Binge Eating' and fat activist Michelle McCormick. We discuss weight cycling, diet culture, fat phobic rhetoric, and the state funds that are going to Operation Transformation.
Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week on the Sunday Special we were joined by Glow West podcast host, Dr Caroline West, Dublin Inquirer reporter, Shamim Malekmian and Adoption Rights and Clann Project co-founder, Claire McGettrick. It was an absolute privilege.
We discuss Shamim's latest story about how migrants are denied access to life-saving organ transplants because of the possible later requirement for State supports HERE.
We go into a lot of depth as to why the recent "gamechanger" on access to records for the survivors of Mother and Baby Homes/Magdalene Laundries was very much NOT a gamechanger. Then we discussed the outpouring of emotion following the shocking murder of Ashling Murphy, some of the aspects of the societal response and what it says about us and our need for genuine change versus the actual willingness to change.
Please do join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
On December 6th we recorded our 2nd annual live Nollaig Na mBán Podcast with an audience of our members. We are releasing this now to everyone. Joining host Dr Vicky Conway to discuss hopes, fears and ambitions for 2022 is a powerhouse panel of incredible women, Psychotherapist Ejiro Ogbevoen, Social Care Worker Anne Marie Quilligan, co-convener of the Abortion Rights Campaign Helen Stonehouse, Writer and GFA Advocate Emma DeSouza and UCD Architecture Lecturer Orla Hegarty.
There's so much covered in this discussion. Grab a cup of tea and treat yourself. Thanks for all the support. Stand in Awe of All Mná.
Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
It was a pleasure to be joined for our first Sunday Special of 2022 by Dr Liqa Ur Rehman, Legal Assoc Seán Grant, Reporter with notewrothy.ie Maria Delaney and Ireland Thinks analyst Kevin Cunningham. We discuss the iniquity of Ireland's visa and Stamp system, the Suvern discourse on NI, classrooms and covid, the latest polls North and South, Happy Coup Year, Irish voters fed up of corruption and Wordle.
FastAccessStamp4 on Social Media
And please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this very special tortoise shack podcast Dr Caroline West of Glow West joins Martin and Tony to talk the year to come, the resolutions and revolutions they want to see and the things that they want to see left in 2021.
You'll also hear from Green Party Cllrs (Dublin & Belfast) Hazel Chu and Brian Smyth, former UN Special Rapporteur for Housing, Leilani Farha, full-time teacher and part-time Reboot host, Jana Lyons, Solicitor and hero Simon McGarr, Tallaght Person of the Decade Senator Lynn Ruane, Ana Liffey CEO Tony Duffin, Amnesty's Colm O'Gorman, Our Man in Stockholm Philip O'Connor, Business Post Journalist Killian Woods, the wonderful as always Ber Grogan, friend of the pod Marika Bourke, our very own 'Newcomer of the Year' Lefty Loyalist, Sam McIlwaine, Threshold's Anne Marie Reilly, Sunday Special Stalwart Oisin Murphy-Lawless, Solidarity PBP TD Paul Murphy, Mr Irish History Podcast Fin Dwyer, Madrid based Professor Joe Haslam, the Irish Examiners Mick Clifford and a fella called Blindboy.
All sung out by Mick Finnegan.
Join us for 2022 at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
We're back with part 2 of our review of 2021 and this time we're talking Political Personality of the year, Patron (that's youse) of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, and our Highlights (yes, there were lots of highlights!)
You'll also hear from comedian, writer, actor and Roy Keane Stan, Tadhg Hickey, Social Care worker and all-round hero, Anne Marie Quilligan, Sinn Féin Senator, Lynn Boylan, Host of the Irish Times Inside Politics and my on and off rival, Hugh Linehan, Head of Religions at UCC and the best dressed man in Ireland, Amanullah De Sondy, the Irish Examiners award winning duo Aoife Moore and Paul Hosford, Sunday Special sensation and Dublin Inquirer reporter, Shamim Malekmian and filmmaker, director and (former) friend of the shack, Lenny Abrahamson.
Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
We decided to run our eye over the year and breakdown some of the best stories, actions, people, activists and everything in between. In this, part one, you'll get our Person of the Year, Achievement of the Year, Lowlight of the Year and Story of the Year.
You'll also hear from comedian Killian Sundermann, self-described education rent-a-gob, (the brilliant) Ciara Reilly, actor and writer, Noelle Brown, ISAG's and TCD's Prof. Tómas Ryan, actor, writer and comedian, Tara Flynn, Tortoise Shack Royalty, Emma DeSouza, Longford Mayor, Uruemu Adejinmi and Mr Polls himself, Harry McEvansoneya. Stay tuned to the end for a special message for tour guide Craig, aka Scottish Comedian, Eleanor Morton.
Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week on another bumper Sunday Special we hosted a brilliant panel of ICCL's Liam Herrick, Returning Champion, Emma DeSouza, Mr Polls Harry McEvansoneya and Dublin Inquirer Reporter, Shamim Malekmian. This time we talked the week that was and the year in review.
We went deep on COVID and civil liberty restrictions, NI progress and the BoJo clown show, we looked at Unity Poll vs Chicken Curry question, the denial around the PSC's demise and we each shared some positives from the year. A great show!
To get access to these shows and help us keep the mics on in 2022 go to patreon.com/tortoiseshack
We've just finished a brilliant Live Sunday Show with Reporter with Noteworthy, Maria Delaney, Social Care Worker, Anne Marie Quilligan and Primary School Teacher, Jana Lyons.
We talked Fianna Fáil as a charity, the great news for some undocumented migrants, the Oireachtas Report into Travellers, COVID restrictions, schools aren't safe, succor for the far right, the arts kicked again and Tony's beef with Mark Rufallo.
New proposal here from Noteworthy HERE
Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week on the tortoise shack Sunday Special, we had a bumper show. Joining us to talk about the events of the week were Social Democrats TD, Cian O'Callaghan, writer, advocate and friend of the shack, Emma DeSouza, TCD Professor, Tómas Ryan and former political prisoner - now law student, Ibrahim Halawa.
We discuss the very worrying trend of increasing homelessness, the "Free State" nonsense polls on a United Ireland, the new Omicron variant and our COVID response, and we dive deep into the DCU lecturer controversy and what impact it has for students. We also touch on the Oscar Traynor sell-off, the Afghanistan humanitarian crisis and lots more.
Join us and get access to these podcasts as they happen at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
We've just finished recording a cracking, and at times spicy, Sunday Special. Joining us were Dublin Inquirer Reporter, Shamim Malekmian, Sinn Féin Senator, Lynn Boylan and UCD Asst Prof, Orla Hegarty.
We talk about how this State treats migrant children, the Energy Charter Treaty, the underwhelming COP, COVID in charge, Build to Rent devotees, the Mother and Baby Homes redress failings, Trans Awareness Week, Ireland Inc in Saudi Arabia and Rory vs David McWilliams. Check out Shamim's piece HERE.
Join us here at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This weeks live Sunday Special is in the can. Where we were joined by writer, activist and regular contributor, Emma DeSouza, Social Democrats Cllr for Clontarf, Catherine Stocker and Irish Daily Mail Political Correspondent, Craig Hughes.
We discuss the scenes of violence and intimidation this week in NI, the COP26 conference and Ireland's Climate Action Bill, the Paddy Cosgrave/Web Summit coverage, housing via the Oscar Tryanor Road site and Craig's scoop about the Irish Govt looking to attract more international funds/vultures here to meet our housing need. A packed show.
Join us and get lots more content at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Last few tickets for Wednesday HERE
We have just finished recording a Tortoise Shack Live with Sinn Féin TD, Reada Cronin, writer and activist, Emma DeSouza and Green Party MEP, Ciaran Cuffe.
We discussed the latest on the NI Protocol and how it's viewed as a positive by a majority now. We look at the COP26 Conference in some detail and delve into why Ciaran believes there is hope for a genuine Climate Action agreement. We also talk Sinn Féin's #Time4Change slogan in the week of them abstaining on a vote on reproductive healthcare in NI and a motion on the SCC. We also chat about the Prussia Street evictions and gentrification via dereliction and the scary COVID situation.
Don't forget the Live Sugar Club show is only a few days away. Tickets HERE
Join us and help keep the mics on: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week in front of our live Tortoise Shack Members we recorded a very different, difficult, enraging and at times hopeful Sunday Special. We were joined from his hospital bed in CUH by Nadim Hussain, who is recovering from his 9 Day Hunger Strike in order to prevent his deportation.
Nadim tells us how his parents were killed in 2018 and how he fears he would meet the same fate if sent back to India. Eoin from the Abolish Direct Provision Campaign, also joined us to tell us the current situation relation to the plans to end DP and the lack of asylum seekers inputs.
Then Asst Prof at UCD, Orla Hegarty, spoke about reopening, mitigation and the reality of the Covid data, while Irish man in Moscow, Alan Moore, tells us about their latest lockdown, the vaccine uptake and what the Taliban taking power in Afghanistan has meant for his work with his international and Afghan students.
We also discuss the DHRE Soup Kitchen report, Comrade Denis O'Brien vs Facebook and more.
Tickets for the Sugar Club HERE
Get access to these regular live shows at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
We've just finished recording a really excellent Sunday Special. Joining Martin and Tony are journalist with the Dublin Inquirer, Shamim Malekmian, Author, Alvagh Cronin, Mr Irish election projections, Harry McEvenasoneya and GFA advocate, writer and regular contributor, Emma DeSouza.
We talked about Shamim's work in exposing children going missing from our asylum system, the murder of MP Sir David Amess, the NI Protocol and what ground is left to give (if any), the recent polls and the challenge for SF to reach out to middle Ireland, the Sally Rooney controversy and online discourse and finally we ask "what time does your driver wake you up at?"
(I've left the bit in at the beginning, because Martin)
Tickets for the Sugar Club are on Sale now.
On this weeks Sunday Special we were joined by new public rep for PBP Clondalkin, Darragh Adelaide and Senior Reporter with the Business Post, Killian Woods.
We talk the NI Partition Commemorations. Comrade Dermot Desmond, the supply and demand fallacy, PBP for change and not just protest, the Slaintecare failure repackaged as a success, the Pension timebomb scam and the best silverware butter knives out for Leo Varadkar.
Join us to come along to these regular podcasts and for lots more: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Joining Martin and Tony to discuss the week that was are comedian, Killian Sundermann, writer and activist, Emma DeSouza and Sinn Féin health spokesperson, David Cullinane. We ask: Is Sláintecare dead or can it be revived? Why would you want to dump the NI Protocol and suffer more economic hardship? What is happening with immigration and fortress Europe? Are Data Centers really Strategic Infrastructure? Should sketch comedians get the pandemic bonus ahead of podcasters? And if you were there live you got a What to Watch this week.
To support us and to come along to these regular podcasts please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week Martin and Tony were joined by panelists Shamim Malekmian of the Dublin Inquirer, Maria Delaney of Noteworthy, Prof Joe Haslam and we had great contributions from the wonderful Anne Marie Quilligan and the fairly okay Kevin Cunningham. Shamim told us about the gap in the legal aid system that is punishing immigrants in an already cruel system, Joe tells us about the reemergence of the Catalan Independence movement and why it distracts from the important issues, Maria discusses the systemic inequalities in our education system that has seen many Traveller teenagers feeling unable to return to school post Covid.
We talk about the latest Anthony Flynn revelations, the upcoming Repeal Review, Populist kite flying, wealthy TD's and the generation gap. We even get a best case scenario for the German elections. Please support the Dublin Inquirer and Noteworthy. And Get Well Soon, Vicky!
Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
At noon we recorded another bumper Sunday Special with a brilliant panel of Dr. Jennifer Kavanagh, Emma DeSouza, Lilith Ferreyra-Carroll and Mick Clifford. We discussed Mick's recent reporting on ICHH, the handling of allegations of sexual assault and a potential hierarchy of victimhood. We dived into President Michael D. Higgins decision to not attend a Partition Commemoration and the messages it sends. We talked the use and misuse of Dáil privilege and we had an important conversation about the UK court overturning the Bell vs Tavistock judgement and the implications that has for the Trans Community.
Also reminder to check out #TravellerPrideWeek, kicking off Sept 20th.
Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week Vicky, Martin and Tony were joined by Head of Religions, Senior Lecturer in UCC, Amanullah De Sondy, Fianna Fáil Lord Mayor of Longford, Uruemu Adejinmi, Mr irishelectionprojections.com, Harry McEvansoneya and Senior Pharmacist (Cancer Services) au UHW, DJ Walsh, for what was a brilliant conversation.
We discussed the polls, how Slaintecare is being sidelined and the predominantly white voices being aired in what is a multi cultural health care service. We also discussed the gulf in sentences between domestic violence and other areas, the legacy of 9/11, the week in politics and lots more.
I also pay a little tribute to our friend, Dawn Foster, on what would've been her birthday. #DawnFosterForever
A brilliant listen. For the full episode and to get access to these regular live podcasts please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
It was a pleasure to be joined by two of the editors, Aoife O'Donoghue and Mairead Enright, to discuss what is an alternative executive summary to that issued by the State following the publication of the Mother and Baby Homes Report.
Joining me as co-host was solicitor who is acting for some of the survivors, Simon McGarr. We discuss what it is, why was it necessary, what methodology was used, any findings made and do they differ from the States exec sum and finally we ask what needs to happen next.
It can be viewed HERE.
Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this week's episode we review 20 years of research and data to bring you a comprehensive account of what we know about racism and policing in Ireland. An Garda Síochána may not gather and publish all the data it should, but we still know a great deal. We are joined by Dr Sam O’Brien Olinger, Dr Aogan Mulcahy, Dr James Carr, Dr Lucy Michael and Haritha Olaganathan of Youths Against Racism and Inequality (YARI) all of whom have conducted essential research in this space. We show how findings of institutional racism in 2004 have only been reinforced by all later research
Guests Research: Sam O'Brien Olinger - Aogán Mulcahy - James Carr - Lucy Michael - Haritha Olaganathan
Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this episode of The Beat Vicky speaks to Ruth Coppinger, politician and activist, about the killing of George Nkencho. We discuss the concerns she has and why she is supporting the family. We talk about the GSOC investigation, but also other steps which could be taken in the short term. A local ethnic diversity forum may be established and we discuss what would need to happen for that to be effective, and not actually make things worse.
Support us and get access to much more exclusive content at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week on Policed, we talk to Michelle Gavin, who worked for Debenhams in Waterford for over 25 years. She was on the picket in Waterford for over a year, and tells us about the interactions they had with An Garda Síochána. We examine in detail how the Gardaí were used in the dispute, but also question whether they had to act as they did. Michelle Byrne, of Unite, also joins us to tease through those bigger questions the policing of trade union disputes.
Join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week we speak to Neil, whose sister Donna was killed while she was cycling in 2016. Neil talks to us about his interactions with the Gardaí after her death, how supportive the liaison officer could be, but how difficult it was to find out key information.
We also consider the inquest process and the Garda role in that. Liam Herrick of the ICCL joins us to share findings from their recent report on the coroner system. (This episode builds on our last episode with Conn, and we recommend listening to that first.)
Support us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week we consider and focus on the Garda role of road safety. In particular, Conn from Cork talks to us about his experiences of engaging with the Gardaí as a cyclist. The difficulties experienced in the reporting of crime points to cultural stereotyping of cyclists and a dismissal of the seriousness of the issue. We also speak to Mike McKilllen of cyclist.ie who speaks of an institutional blindness towards cyclists.
Support this podcast at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
We're joined by Prof Clifford Stott of Keele University, a world leading researcher on crowd psychology who has long been involved in advising police forces internationally on the policing of crowds, particularly around football hooliganism. Reflecting on what happened in Dublin this weekend, he explains why it is essential we leave moralising at the door, engage with the underlying issues, and really carefully reflect on how the police action can potentially descalate or exacerbate a crowd situation. This is something An Garda Síochána, city councils and the government need to engage with immediately.
Support this podcast and the wiser platform by joining us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week our very own James Leonard, of the Two Norries Podcast, talks to us about his experience of policing. We consider how young people in working class areas are policed and the interventions the Gardaí made in his life. To give context to this, Prof Shadd Maruna of Queens University Belfast, talks to us about the research on resistance: what actually enables people to move away from criminal activity. The episode raises big questions about how the police engage with those involved in drugs, what's considered 'antisocial' and criminal activity.
Find the Two Norries podcast on YouTube HERE
Support this podcast and help the platform by joining us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this episode of Policed: the Beat we talked to Helen Hall, CEO of the Policing Authority, about a consultation currently running on what should be the priorities for the work of An Garda Síochána next year. We discuss what it means to prioritise different things, why it matters that the public has a say in this, how it shapes the work of the Gardaí, and what role the Policing Authority plays in all of this.
The consultation is open at www.policingauthority.ie and takes about 10 minutes to complete.
Show your support for the Tortoise Shack HERE.
In the 20th episode of Policed in Ireland, we hear from Kayleigh, about her experiences of reporting sexual violence to An Garda Síochána. We know that this is one of the most underreported crimes, and so hearing what it's like when someone does report is really important. Kayleigh tells us about what it meant as a teenager to report sexual violence, and not have it taken seriously. She is also able, through more recent experiences, to reflect on more responses from Gardaí. A necessary listen.
Support this podcast and the wider tortoise shack by joining us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Vicky is joined, in this episode of The Beat by Sharda Murria of Birmingham City University, to talk about Body Worn Cameras. With legislation in train for using Body Worn Cameras in Ireland, Sharda talks to us about what emerging research tells us about the consequences and benefits of them.
Then she tells us about systems in England and Wales which allow members of the public to sit on panels where they review footage of stop and searches and provide feedback to the police. It's a fascinating discussion that will really make you think about how these are not just a tool for accountability, but also transparency and learning. You can read more about Sharda's work HERE
Please support this podcast and the tortoise shack by becoming a patron at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
New legislation proposes the creation of an Independent Examiner of Security Legislation who will review how security powers are used, and whether they are adequate and appropriate. In this episode of The Beat, Vicky speaks to Lord David Anderson, who held the equivalent role in the UK from 2011-2017.
We talk about what the job entails, what powers are needed to do it, and reflect on the Irish proposals. It's a space that's often hidden and secret, but Lord Anderson shows how government really could give people confidence that how the powers are used is being watched.
Support this project and lots of additional content by joining us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Prof Yvonne Daly joins me on this episode of the Beat, to talk about new research that she and I have been doing on your rights in Garda custody. We talk about when you are allowed to see your solicitor, and then talk in detail about how that solicitor is selected.
We report on research with solicitors that suggests some really significant problems in that area. And then Yvonne talks us through a research project call Emprise that she has been doing with colleagues across Europe about how your right to silence in the police interview is being protected. A chance to understand some stuff that's often quite hidden.
To support this podcast and get access to lots of exclusive content please go to patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this episode of Policed: The Beat Vicky chatted to Haritha Olaganathan of Youths Against Racism and Inequality (YARI). Following the shooting of George Nkencho YARI conducted a survey of young people's experiences of racism and policing. We had an amazing conversation about the alarming findings of that survey, the structural context of police racism, the role of youth activism, and whether police reform can work in a carceral state. Not to be missed!
To support this podcast and the entire tortoise shack platform, plus get lots of exclusive content please visit patreon.com/tortoiseshack
We just finished a terrific Live Sunday Special. This week Tony walked Martin (Echo Chamber), Vicky (Policed) and Hannah (new podcast Rewind coming soon) through some of the stories of the week. We were also joined by the powerhouse that is Emma DeSouza, to talk NI riots and the Good Friday Agreement. Then Dr Mohsin Kamal rejoined us to tell us how the #FastTrackCitizenship campaign is going and talk a little about the inequality baked into our medical training system.
To support us and attend these events (as well as the consolidated Tortoise Shack podcast feed) join us for €5.50 a month at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this episode of Policed: The Beat, Vicky is joined by Prof Ursula Kilkelly and Dr Louise Forde to discuss a new piece of research they have just published called Children's Rights and Police Questioning. The discussion looks at what they found when they spoke to children, police, lawyers and care givers when they asked them about experiences of being in police stations. The work raises some really big questions for how children are being policed. The research can be found HERE
A fantastic and informative conversation.
To support this podcast and get access to lots of extra tortoise shack content join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week Caroline, Linda and Vicky hosted a phenomenal Live Podcast with an incredible panel that included our newest Tortoise Shack family member, Joella Dhlamini, Senator Eileen Flynn, Activist Adeline Berry, ConverSayTrans Co-host (and Tortoise Shack Royalty) Alexandra Hall, the wonderful Joy Tendai Kangere, Longford Cllr Uruemu Adejinmi and journalist and broadcaster, Dawn Foster.
We discussed intersectionality, proper allyship, how hurtful it is to have a seat at the table and yet be gagged, the press presentation of the "evil woman", voting more women into politics, the role of NGOs in modern perceptions and feminism and we learned more about young activists who are up and coming and ones to watch.
Please go to patreon.com/tortoiseshack to support us and to attend these regular live podcasts!
In this episode we return to the topic of the policing of domestic violence. You'll hear from Mary tell about how she was in an abusive marriage for decades and what happened when she turned to the Police for help. You'll also hear from Dr Marian Duggan, Senior Lecturer at the University of Kent, with expertise in Sexual Gender and Hate Based Violence.
Warning: This episode contains subjects and themes that some people might find distressing.
Production, editing and sound design by Brian at Grooves Ahead.
Support this project and get access to our additional content at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Women's Aid are available at womensaid.ie/help
Safe Ireland provide services and support at https://www.safeireland.ie/contact-us/
This week we're honoured to be joined by Amy, a young woman who, as a teenager, disclosed inter-familial child sexual abuse. She talks to us about what happened when she disclosed, how the Gardaí have handled her case, and the extreme difficulties that she encountered in life afterwards. We place all this in the broader context of the policing of child sexual abuse, and are joined by Dr Jane Mulcahy of UL who discusses trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
Warning: This episode contains subjects and themes that some people might find distressing.
Production, editing and sound design by Brian at Grooves Ahead.
Support this project and get access to our additional content at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This podcast was recorded on the 15th of November November following a landmark jury conviction of a man for coercive control. In this episode Vicky spoke with barrister Katie Dawson and covered what coercive control is, what measures Gardaí have put in place to improve how it is policed, and what more can be done. We at The Tortoise Shack are very saddened to here of Katie's passing and we are making this episode public as a small reminder of how great her loss is. May she rest in peace.
This week we're talking about the policing of animal rights activism. Mark Fitzpatrick joins us to share some experiences from the 90s, including one particular attempt to sabotage a fox hunt that turned incredibly violent.
We place this in a broader context with Dr Nathan Stephen-Griffin's to think about the politics of policing such activity. Referencing Spycops we see the role that power plays in these events.
Support this podcast and get access to lots of additional content by joining us at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Production, editing and sound design by Brian at Grooves Ahead.
This week we talk with Patrick and Catherine Barry, who share with us their story of their son, Stuart, who died in 2017. Stuart suffered from mental illness, and took his own life days after an arrest. In this episode we hear of their experiences with the Gardaí and how they believe Stuart was failed on that night. We also speak with Dr Ian Cummins of the University of Salford about the wider question of the policing of mental health.
Support this podcast and get access to lots of additional content at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Production, editing and sound design by Brian at Grooves Ahead.
In this episode we hear from Isreal about his experiences as a young Black man in Ireland. You'll also hear from Dr James Carr of the University of Limerick, who has done significant research on issues of race and policing and Bashir Otukoya, Asst Professor of Law in DCU and a member of the Government's Anti-Racism Committee.
We are deliberately launching this series with this episode in the wake of the killing of George Nkencho, and we are grateful to Isreal, who was a friend of George's, for finding the emotional capacity to talk to us.
Support this project and get lots of additional content by joining us at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Production, editing and sound design by Brian at Grooves Ahead.
In this special episode we brought together experts, academics, activists and investigative journalists, to share their knowledge of the social history, the legal requirements, the standard of proof, the gathering of evidence, the construction of findings as well as issues of race and disability contained in the Mother and Baby Homes Report. We consider what could and should happen next and how the focus for now needs to be on ensuring survivor focused redress and justice mechanisms.
Hosted by Dr Vicky Conway, you'll hear from Historian, DR Sarah-Anne Buckley, Law Lecturer, Máiréad Enright, Solicitor, Fionna Fox, Journalist, Conall Ó Fátharta and Legal Academic, Dr Sinéad Ring.
There's also a call for action by our friend, Izzy Kamikaze. Please sign and share this petition: https://my.uplift.ie/petitions/birth-certs-now-for-adoptees,
Thank you to all the contributors and do let us have your suggestions.
Support this podcast and the platform by joining us at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this episode of Policed: The Beat, Vicky speaks to Nana Nubi, a PhD candidate in the University of Limerick and Dr Lucy Michael, sociologist and racism expert. We explore questions and concerns emerging from the killing of George Nkencho by the Armed Response Unit. Questions of the right to life, policing and racism, policing mental health, and accountability are explored. Then both Nana and Lucy highlight what supports and actions communities need now from the State.
Please support this podcast by joining us at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
We have a side-series to Policed exclusively for our patreon members. But we aew putting this episode out now in the hope that some of you might consider supporting this work in 2021.
In this episode Dr Vicky Conway speaks to Dr Yvonne Daly about the Kerry Babies case. We discuss what happened, what concerns there were about the Garda investigation at the time and the purpose of the Tribunal. We ask the important questions: What was so problematic about what the Tribunal decided and what is the significance of this week's ruling? And how much better are police processes now?
Please do head to patreon.com/tortoiseshack and see if there is a tier that suits you. We'd really appreciate it.
Bernie Hughes speaks to us this week about her involvement in the water protests and how these were policed. We look at the class based nature of this social movement, the nature of their concerns at the Garda role and behaviour, as well as the long term consequences. Dr Laurence Cox of NUI Maynooth helps us to explore these issues, and how this fits in the broader scheme of Irish protests.
Support this project and get lots of additional content by joining us at: patreon.com/tortoisrshack
Production, editing and sound design by Brian at Grooves Ahead.
This week we consider how children in care are policed and criminalised. Liam tells us his story of being removed from his home, being offered limited supports and how when he acted out the Gaurds were called. John Murphy from EPIC places this experience in a wider context.
Liam is voiced by Michael Shehan: @MichaelSheehan8
Support this project by going to: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week we speak to Gabrielle, a wonderfully strong woman, who was born in a Mother and Baby Home and then survived the Magdalene Laundries. We focus in particular on the role that Gardaí had in facilitating the operation of the Laundries. With assistance from Dr Maeve O'Rourke we think quite critically about the legality of Garda actions, and how this should be addressed as we go forward.
For more information on the Justice for Magdalene's campaign visit: jfmresearch.com
To support this project by joining us at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Production, editing and sound design by Brian at Grooves Ahead.
In March of 2019, 4 hours after he was released from Garda custody for a public order offence, 20 year old Niall took his own life on the family farm. This week his mother, Johanna bravely and powerfully speaks to us about what kind of young man Niall was, the struggle they've had to find out from Gardaí what exactly happened, and the concerns they have about how young people are being handled by police. Dr Roxanna Dehaghini, Cardiff University and Doireann Ansbro of the Irish Council of Civil Liberties give crucial context on this harrowing story.
Support this project and get access to our side-series Policed: The Beat by joining us at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this new side-series to Policed, Dr Vicky Conway will look at news and issues relating to policing, bringing expert perspectives and continuing to reflect on what this means for those who are policed. This will be available exclusively to our tortoise shack members going forward.
In this episode Vicky is joined by Dr Michael Mulqueen, who is Professor of Policing and National Security at the University of Central Lancashire and is also a serving Superintendent in the Cheshire Constabulary.
They discuss the issue of Mental Health in the Police and the recent report on a study into the mental health of police in our Gardai, which revealed that 63% of Garda experience trauma at work.
This is a perspective and insight you won't hear anywhere else.
To get access to Policed: The Beat and support the wider tortoise shack project join us: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week, we speak to two teenagers, Orlaith and Brendan (not real names) about their experience of stop and search in a town in Donegal.
Stop and search, while often a short, minor encounter, can have huge consequences and we see that in how these young people feel about the police. We know so little about stop and search in Ireland but Orlaith and Brendan tell us what it's like for them. Dr John Topping and Professor Alex Vitale explain some of the issues that arise.
Support this project: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week Dr Vicky Conway took the lead and brought Martin, Linda and Tony through the stories of the week.
We were joined by Special Guests, Adeline Berry, Rhona McCord and Aoife-Grace Moore as we discussed the US Election result, the hopes for the Biden-Harris Presidency, Sinn Féin's no confidence motion in Leo Varadkar, #WoulfeWatch, issues around Domestic Violence, the protests in the streets of Poland around abortion rights and Intersex Solidarity Day.
Then we opened the mics up and heard from our Tortoise Shack family. It is always the best podcast of the week.
To come along to the next Live Podcast join us at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
It has been a tumultuous week that has seen Ireland's legacy of Institutional Abuse come to the fore in both the public and political realm. On this crossover podcast, Dr Vicky Conway and Tony are joined by Senator Alice-Mary Higgins and Solicitor Simon McGarr to try and make sense of it all.
The panel look at the legal, ethical and political arguments and ask how did we get here and where are we going to next. We also look at the actions of the State and their speeding up of legislation, that inhibits proper scrutiny and its reliance on the guillotine to pass Bills, even when their efficacy is at best questionable and at worst damaging.
Finally, we take heart from the all of the incredible people who made their voices heard this week and took a #Stand4Truth.
To support this podcast and the wider platform (and get lots of additional content) please go to: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In July of this year Estefany was held in Mountjoy Prison in solitary confinement for 12 days after she attempted to enter the country: this detention was held to be unlawful. Estefany describes for us what happened at the airport, how she was treated, and how she ended up in prison - it's a visceral account of her experience. Dr Liam Thornton and journalist Luke Butterly provide context on the wider system as we consider the Garda role in this process.
Support this project by joining us: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This is part two of the story of Osgur Breatnach, who was wrongfully convicted in 1978 of the Sallins Mail Train Robbery. In this episode we hear about his trials and conviction before the Special Criminal Court. Dr Fergal Davis helps us understand the controversies of that court. We hear of Osgur's time in prison and the campaign for this release. We discuss the impact all of this had on him and his family, with his brother Cormac contributing. The ongoing campaign for an apology and accountability is also detailed. Support this project:patreon.com/tortoiseshack Artwork by @Ciaraioch. Production, editing and sound design by Brian at Grooves Ahead. CC credits: Frankum, samulis, The Tides, tkky, klankbeeld, kinoton, stratcat322, dbspin, waveplay, oscii, tim kahn, felix blume, tradeshowmusic, soapuel Osgur’s website: https://sallinsinquirynow.ie/ Cormac’s website: https://www.thewhistleblower.ie/ Cormac’s music: https://cormacjuanbreatnach1.bandcamp.com/releases
Over the next two weeks, we speak to Osgur Breatnach, who was wrongfully convicted in 1978 of the Sallins Mail Train Robbery.
This conviction was based on a false confession which he provided have been beaten by the Heavy Gang, a group that operated within An Garda Síochána. In this part, we remind listeners of the context of the 1970s, and Osgur bravely describes his arrest, treatment and abuse, telling us just how severe it got. Dr Sinead Ring outlines some of the legal issues around confession evidence.
Support this project at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
This week Oscar, a primary school teacher who grew up in a working class area, tells of being unlawfully arrested, searched and detained as a child. He tells what it felt like in the moment, and what the impact has been on his attitude towards the Gardaí.
We also speak to Prof Ursula Kilkelly about why and how children must be treated differently by the police, and Dr TJ McIntyre explains the law concerning filming the police.
Support this project by joining us at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Follow us on twitter @PolicedPodcast
In this two part episode we speak to family of Terence Wheelock, who died after falling ill in Garda custody in 2005. The family speak powerfully about what it was like to have a loved one die in such circumstances, and how they have been treated by the police since then as they have searched for answers. We also hear from Gary Gannon, TD, and Dr Jonathan Ilan, of London City University.
Part 1 looks at Terence the man, what exactly happened on 02 June 2005 and explores the range of doubts and questions that haunt the Wheelock family.
Part 2 focuses on the investigations that have occurred into his death, the harassment that the family have endured since then, and why they are calling for a public inquiry.
Please support this project and the wider tortoise shack by joining us at: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
In this episode we speak to family of Terence Wheelock, who died after falling ill in Garda custody in 2005. The family speak powerfully about what it was like to have a loved one die in such circumstances, and how they have been treated by the police since then as they have searched for answers. We also hear from Gary Gannon, TD, and Dr Jonathan Ilan, of London City University.
Part 1 looks at Terence the man, what exactly happened on 02 June 2005 and explores the range of doubts and questions that haunt the Wheelock family.
Part 2 focuses on the investigations that have occurred into his death, the harrassment that the family have endured since then, and why they are calling for a public inquiry.
Please support these podcasts and this project by going to patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Welcome to Police in Ireland with Dr Vicky Conway.
This week we hear from Adeline Berry, a sex worker and researcher, talks about how how activities as a sex worker have been policed in Ireland. We also hear from Wendy Lyon, solicitor and Dr Lynzi Armstrong who researches the area and activist Kate McGrew. What is the law on sex work? How are an Garda Síochána enforcing it? And what are the consequences for vulnerable people?
To hear the full interview with Adeline and support this project join us on: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
To make a submission click here
Welcome to Policed in Ireland with me, Dr Vicky Conway. In this, our first episode, we listen to Majo Rivas discuss her experiences of an Garda Síochána, both in reporting hate crime and in the immigration process. Fiona Finn from NASC and Dr Lucy Michael also join us to provide context around many of the issues raised by Majo.
Why are migrants slow to engage with police? What do these encounters mean for trust in the police? This is Policed in Ireland. To hear the full interview with Majo and support this project please join us on: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
Artwork by @Ciaraioch - Production, editing and sound design by Brian at Grooves Ahead. Creative Commons material by Stephen Kelly, Denis Chapon, leonmail mosfran and POPtravel.
Follow us on twitter @PolicedPodcast & @TortoiseShack
Welcome to Policed in Ireland, the podcast that seeks to capture the experiences people have with the police, and put those voices front and centre. Hosted by Dr Vicky Conway, this series will cover how communities and individuals experience policing, both good and bad, and offer expert opinion and context to these stories.
Join us: patreon.com/tortoiseshack
<< Back To The Policed Podcast