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Check FAQAbout Seamus
I am passionate about sharing great stories in the most innovative and engaging way possible. An Irish/New Zealand national, my career as a senior broadcast journalist now spans more than 30 years. I worked as a senior journalist, presenter & producer at EuronewsNBC for 14 years and at numerous other media groups including the BBC, Radio France International and Radio New Zealand. I am now an independent journalist, France & Europe correspondent, debate & conference moderator and media trainer/consultant. I am fluent in French, having lived in France for more than 20 years, and happy to work in both English and French. I am based in the cities of Paris and Lyon, but willing to travel and work anywhere. I can be called upon to cover breaking news stories and I am ready to travel to neighbouring cities or countries at short notice. As well as being specialised in European and international affairs, covering many major news stories live on television and radio, I produced and presented numerous global programmes at EuronewsNBC for many years. The shows - Right On, Postcards, Urban Visions, Life, Focus, Target and Metropolitans - put the spotlight on a wide variety of subjects, from human rights to culture and tourism, in many different countries around the world. I have also worked as a radio and television tutor at one of France's top journalism schools, the CFJ in Paris, and my most recent work as a media relations consultant has been for the likes of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation and the World Bank in Africa. My work as a moderator has been for high-profile events including a debate on Brexit at the World Travel Market in London and for an event in The Hague held by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights. My website is: www.seamuskearneymedia.com
English
French
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Portfolio
Rediscovering Tokyo's Water City Heritage
The article discusses Tokyo's historical connection with waterways and the current efforts to revitalize this aspect of the city. Once known as a 'water city' similar to Venice, Tokyo's urban expansion led to the neglect of its rivers and canals. However, a renaissance movement is underway to reconnect citizens with these waterways. Projects include regenerating historic bridges, creating public spaces, and promoting inner-harbour activities. The city is also preparing for the 2020 Olympics and Paralympics, with plans to introduce water taxi boats to improve transportation. Experts and locals, including Professor Hidenobu Jinnai and fisherman Yuji Maru, express their support for these initiatives, highlighting the cultural and environmental benefits of embracing Tokyo's water city heritage.
Emotional centenary commemorations for Kiwi soldiers in Le Quesnoy
Centenary commemorations were held in Le Quesnoy, France, to honor New Zealand soldiers who liberated the town from German occupation during World War I. The event was attended by descendants of the soldiers, French and New Zealand dignitaries, including Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy and Ambassador Jane Coombs. Over 300 Kiwi descendants traveled for the ceremony, which also marked the unveiling of a planned New Zealand War Memorial Museum. The museum, dedicated to Kiwi soldiers, will be housed in Le Quesnoy's former mayoral residence, purchased by a New Zealand-based trust. Fundraising is underway for the refurbishment, with the museum set to open in stages. A sculpture by Helen Pollock was also unveiled, and the town of Le Quesnoy has strong historical ties with New Zealand, reflected in its street names and its 'sister town' relationship with Cambridge in the Waikato.
Iraqi Asylum Seekers in New Zealand Share Their Fears and Hopes
The article by Seamus Kearney discusses the experiences of two Iraqi families who sought asylum in New Zealand, escaping the regime of Saddam Hussein. Muna and Sinan, along with another couple, Sami and Layla (all names changed for privacy), express their fears of retribution against their families back in Iraq and their concerns about the potential impacts of war on their relatives. They recount the difficulties of leaving Iraq and their adjustment to life in New Zealand, where they now hold citizenship. The families are haunted by the past and worried about the future, especially in light of the possibility of war. They believe that military action is necessary to remove Saddam Hussein but are also aware of the high costs that the Iraqi people may have to pay. The article also touches on the psychological impact of living under a dictatorship and the challenges of maintaining contact with family members in Iraq.
Examples of radio culture features. BBC World Service ‘The Ticket’ programme: two reports from New Zealand.
Examples of radio news features. BBC World Service ‘Weekend’ programme: various radio reports from Paris
Example of TV show Urban Visions, which I presented and produced. The winds of change in Austin, Texas.
Example of TV show Urban Visions, which I presented and produced. Breathing better in the Big Apple.
Example of light TV news feature. Euronews opens new global headquarters.
Example of TV news story/interview. Zimbabwean leader Robert Mugabe ousted.
Example of breaking news live. Phone report from New Zealand on big earthquake.
Example of TV news interview, with David Miliband, the former British Foreign Secretary.
Example of Euronews TV programme Right On, which I presented and produced. "How to tackle bullying in schools".
Example of TV programme Right On, which I presented and produced. "The distance between the EU and its citizens".
Example of TV programme I produced and presented. Postcards from Almaty: The impressive Charyn Canyon
Example of TV programme: Euronews' Postcards from Japan. The fastest mochi pounders.
Example of conference/debate moderating: Brexit debate at the World Travel Market, London. (3 mins into video, then from 15 mins 55 secs)
Examples of television trailers for a Euronews programme I presented and produced, Postcards.
Live radio presenting on day of September 11 attacks - Radio France International
Live for BBC World News from the fire at Notre Dame in Paris.
EU Faces a Daunting Return from Summer Break with Numerous Challenges
Journalist Seamus Kearney discusses the various challenges that the European Union is facing as its diplomats, bureaucrats, and Members of the European Parliament return from their summer break. The EU is confronted with an array of pressure points and unprecedented challenges that need to be addressed.
Liberians await presidential election result
Liberia is awaiting the results of a presidential run-off vote between former football champion George Weah and Vice-President Joseph Boakai. Both candidates have pledged to combat corruption and improve living standards. The run-off was postponed for over a month due to allegations of fraud by Boakai and another candidate, which were dismissed by the Supreme Court. The country continues to face economic challenges following a devastating civil war that ended in 2003.
Mediterranean migrant deaths down in 2017
Migrant deaths in the Mediterranean in 2017 totaled 3,116, a 40% decrease from the previous year. Arrivals in Europe by sea also dropped by nearly 50%, with most landing in Italy. The UN and Libyan government have collaborated to combat people smuggling, leading to increased interceptions by the Libyan coast guard. However, Human Rights Watch criticizes the strategy, citing dire conditions for migrants returned to Libya. The UNHCR has begun evacuating refugees directly to Europe from Libyan detention centers, with Italy providing shelter and processing asylum requests. Italy's actions come amid criticism of its policies to deter migrants in Libya.
Mystery deepens in French murder case
Nordahl Lelandais, a 34-year-old ex-soldier, has been arrested in southeastern France on suspicion of murder, prompting police to reopen several unresolved cases of murder and missing persons. Lelandais is a formal suspect in the disappearance of a nine-year-old girl from an Isere wedding in August and the death of a young soldier in Chambery in April. Police are investigating potential links to other cases, including a Belgian man's disappearance in July, two men missing since 2011 and 2012, and the 2012 Chevaline murders of a British family and a cyclist. Additionally, the father of a girl who disappeared in 2003 is urging police to investigate a possible connection, as Lelandais previously served in that region.
Australian Senators approve same-sex marriage law
The Australian Senate has passed legislation supporting same-sex marriage, overcoming conservative opposition to the provision of wedding services to gay couples. Senate opposition leader Penny Wong highlighted the significance of the day and the progress towards equality. The bill is expected to pass in the lower house of parliament following overwhelming public support in a postal survey.
Germany headed for another 'grand coalition' as way out of political crisis; France announces new measures to tackle sexual violence against women; and the election campaign of Catalonian separatists launched from Belgium
The article discusses three main topics across different regions in Europe. Firstly, it addresses Germany's political situation, where the country is seemingly moving towards forming another 'grand coalition' as a solution to its political crisis. Secondly, the article covers France's response to sexual violence against women, with the announcement of new measures aimed at tackling this issue. Lastly, the piece reports on the election campaign of Catalonian separatists, which is being conducted from Belgium, indicating the ongoing political tensions and the separatist movement's strategies in Catalonia.
Trump meets and tweets (insults) ahead of ASEAN
President Trump met with Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte ahead of an ASEAN summit in Manila, where both leaders, known for their controversial and maverick styles, were expected to discuss human rights and North Korea. Trump's tweet about Kim Jong-un's insult overshadowed the summit's eve, while he also offered to mediate in the South China Sea dispute. Large protests and a significant security operation marked Trump's visit to Manila, with trade issues also anticipated to be a key topic at the summit.
Abduction fears after girl disappears at French wedding
Nine-year-old Maelys de Araujo disappeared during a wedding reception in Pont de Beauvoisin, near the French Alps. Despite extensive searches, no trace of her has been found. Police are considering abduction, indicated by sniffer dogs' focus on the car park area, suggesting she might have been taken in a vehicle. An abduction inquiry has been opened, and attendees of the wedding and two other nearby events are being questioned.
No sweets in this vending machine, but oysters yes!
An oyster farm on the Ile de Re island in France has introduced a refrigerated vending machine that sells fresh oysters 24/7. The owner, Tony Berthelot, believes this new distribution method will attract younger customers and boost sales outside of regular working hours. Customers have expressed appreciation for the convenience and freshness of the oysters available from the machine.
Aldi halts sale of eggs in all German stores
Aldi has removed all eggs from its stores in Germany as a precaution due to a health scare over potential insecticide contamination. The supermarket chain, which operates over 4,000 stores in Germany, has also pulled eggs from its 190 Swiss stores. Dutch eggs have been withdrawn from various supermarkets, but Aldi is the first to halt all egg sales. Traces of the insecticide fipronil, which can cause nausea, dizziness, and organ damage in high doses, were found in eggs in Belgium and the Netherlands, leading to some poultry farms being shut down. German authorities consider the health risk low and the situation under control. Investigations for potential criminal charges are underway in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Cambodia gets tough on commercial surrogacy
An Australian nurse, Tammy Davis-Charles, and two local assistants have been jailed by a court in Phnom Penh for operating an illegal surrogacy clinic, violating Cambodia's 2016 ban on commercial surrogacy. Southeast Asia was once a popular destination for surrogacy services, but following Thailand, Cambodia has also outlawed the practice. Despite denying the charges and claiming ignorance of the ban, Davis-Charles has been sentenced to one and a half years in prison. Infertile couples are now turning to Laos for surrogacy services.
Roma victims of Holocaust remembered in Bucharest
An exhibition in Bucharest commemorated the Roma victims of the Holocaust, with survivors and officials in attendance. Roma survivor Constantin Braila recounted the hardships and losses experienced, including the lack of compensation. The US Ambassador to Romania, Hans Klemm, emphasized the importance of remembering the Holocaust. Approximately 3,000 Roma were killed at Auschwitz in 1944, and out of 50,000 deported to Trans-Dniester, 11,000 died. Romania's Roma population is estimated at 1.85 million, facing poverty and discrimination. The Council of Europe provided estimates of Roma populations across Europe.
Ambitious project in New Zealand for world’s last building by late Austrian artist Hundertwasser reaches funding target
The article discusses the successful funding of the Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Maori Art Gallery in Whangarei, New Zealand. This project is based on the designs of the late Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, who had made New Zealand his home and left a significant cultural impact on the country. The community-led fundraising effort managed to surpass the NZ$16.25 million target, with significant contributions from the Lottery Grants Board and the New Zealand Arts and Culture Minister, Maggie Barry. The centre will feature several galleries, including the country's first dedicated to Maori fine art, and is expected to boost the local economy through tourism. Construction is set to begin before Christmas, with completion aimed for 2019.
Amid rising questions, London inferno death toll set to rise
The article reports on the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower fire in London, where the death toll stands at 17, with more people still unaccounted for. The fire, which started in the early hours of Wednesday, has raised serious questions about building safety and regulations. British Prime Minister Theresa May has ordered a full public inquiry to provide answers and explanations to the public. The local community has expressed anger and frustration, especially as residents' previous safety concerns were reportedly ignored. Eyewitness accounts describe the rapid spread of the fire, and comparisons are made to a similar incident in Melbourne, Australia. A relief effort is underway, with over one million pounds raised and local charities and residents offering support to those affected.
Growing row in Italy over claims of NGOs colluding with smugglers
In Italy, there is a controversy surrounding allegations that NGOs rescuing migrants at sea may have colluded with Libyan smugglers. Italy's justice minister has denounced these claims as false. Sicilian prosecutor Carmelo Zuccaro, who made the accusations, has been summoned by the High Council of the Judiciary to elaborate on his claims. Zuccaro suggests that some NGOs could be funded by smugglers and may have aims such as destabilizing the Italian economy. He claims to have evidence of phone calls between smugglers and some NGOs, but no criminal investigation has been initiated. NGOs have refuted the allegations, emphasizing their mission to save lives.
Amid calls for inquiry, Syria again denies chemical attack
Syria has denied responsibility for the chemical attack in Khan Sheikhoun that killed at least 70 people, including children. Western countries, including the US, have blamed Damascus, despite its denials and a call for a neutral inquiry suggested by Russia. The UN Special Advisor Jan Egeland expressed hope that the incident would revitalize diplomatic efforts for peace. Meanwhile, burials for the victims have taken place, and the theory of a rebel depot leak suggested by Russia and Syria has been dismissed by the West.
Tailwind of Cyclone Debbie wreaks havoc in New Zealand
Cyclone Debbie's tailwind has led to severe flooding and landslides in New Zealand, prompting the evacuation of thousands, including nearly all residents of Edgecumbe in the North Island. The event is described as a once-in-500-years occurrence. Edgecumbe, which was the epicenter of a significant earthquake in March 1987, is particularly susceptible to flooding. The cyclone had previously hit the Australian coast before moving to New Zealand.
Donald Tusk: 'No one is interested in punishing Greece'
Efforts are underway to restart Greek bailout discussions, which have been stalled, halting loan payments. European Council President Donald Tusk visited Athens, where Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras may call for an emergency EU summit if no deal is reached at the Eurogroup meeting in Malta. Tusk expressed confidence in reaching an agreement, emphasizing support for Greece rather than punishment. Delays in negotiations are seen as harmful to Greece's economic recovery, with potential demands for more austerity if conditions worsen.
Seven arrested as part of St Petersburg bombing probe
Seven individuals of Central Asian origin have been arrested by police in connection with the St Petersburg metro bombing, not as direct suspects but on suspicion of recruiting for radical Islamist groups. The suspected suicide bomber, Kyrgyz-born Akbarzhon Jalilov, who died in the attack that killed 14 and injured about 50, had recently moved into an apartment in the city. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and remembrance services are being held for the victims.
Calls for calm in Paris amid clashes over police shooting
In Paris, calls for calm have emerged after three nights of clashes between police and the Chinese community, following the police killing of a Chinese man in his home. The man's family has appealed for calm despite the turmoil. French police are investigating the incident, where the 56-year-old was shot in front of his family. The police claim he attacked officers with scissors, but this is disputed by some media reports and the family, who say he was cutting fish. Beijing has called for a thorough investigation and summoned a French diplomat for explanations.
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