Anita Alig is a freelance journalist based in Spiddal,  County Galway, Ireland.

She contributes to online news websites while running two news/poetry blogs and writing content for corporate clients. Anita is the founder of the Poetry Cooperative.

Liam Fox attacks House of Lords after yet another government Brexit defeat

01 May 2018  |  Blasting News  |  English  |  UK Politics

International Trade Secretary Liam Fox criticized the House of Lords after the government faced three more Brexit defeats, bringing the total to nine. Key among the amendments was one allowing MPs to renegotiate if Theresa May's deal was rejected. Fox urged Labour MPs to reject the amendment in the Commons, branding the Lords as 'unelected.' The Brexit cabinet sub-committee is divided on the customs union, with Fox and Boris Johnson opposing Theresa May's customs partnership plan. The DUP threatened to leave the government if Northern Ireland remains in the customs union. EU negotiator Michel Barnier visited Ireland and Northern Ireland to address border concerns.

Tags:

DUP House of Lords Labour Party Brexit cabinet sub-committee EU

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Right

Political View

Melissa Amezcua is a journalist based in Mexico City. Experienced in breaking news, gender, migration, human rights and culture and around the globe. Have covered international events. Delivers work on time and verified.

Alan Partridge and the Backstop

15 Apr 2019  |  popula.com  |  English  |  Northern Ireland

Steve Coogan's portrayal of Alan Partridge in his new show serves as a satirical lens through which the complexities and absurdities of Brexit, particularly the Northern Irish backstop, are examined. The article critiques the polarized political landscape in the UK, highlighting the ignorance and radicalization that have emerged post-Brexit vote. It underscores the importance of the backstop as an insurance policy to prevent chaos in Northern Ireland, while criticizing hardline Brexiteers and the Conservative Party for their stance against it. The piece also touches on the cultural and historical context, referencing the Good Friday Agreement and the resurgence of the IRA.

Tags:

DUP Conservative Party European Union European Research Group

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

I am an experienced multimedia journalist based in Brussels, Belgium.

I've been a journalist in print, radio and television for nearly 20 years, the last 8+ specialising in EU policy, legislation and current affairs. As well as an address book packed with insider sources and contacts in Brussels,...

Brussels sealed the deal… but can Sunak sell it?

27 Feb 2023  |  www.theneweuropean.co.uk  |  English  |  EU Relations

The article discusses the recent Brexit deal announced by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The deal aims to address issues related to the Northern Ireland Protocol, with a focus on pragmatic solutions like the red lane/green lane system for goods crossing the Irish Sea. However, significant challenges remain, including opposition from hardline Conservatives and the DUP, as well as skepticism from the EU. The article highlights the complexities of the negotiations, the potential impact of Boris Johnson's legacy, and the EU's cautious optimism. The EU is eager for a quick resolution to move on to other pressing issues like the war in Ukraine, energy costs, and the climate crisis.

Tags:

DUP European Commission European Union

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View

My name is Cátia Bruno and I am a journalist based in Lisbon, Portugal, the city where I was born.

I graduated in 2011 with a BA in Journalism. Since then, I already worked for two national newspapers in the country - the prestigious Expresso and the innovative i. I also freelanced for some ...

Ghosts of the Troubles, Bond's Spies, and FDR's Sudden Death

12 Apr 2021  |  meridianog.substack.com  |  Portuguese  |  Historical Events

Northern Ireland is experiencing significant unrest, reminiscent of the Troubles, with violent protests driven by unionist dissatisfaction with the Brexit agreement. Young rioters, influenced by paramilitary groups, are at the forefront of the violence. The political landscape, including actions by Sinn Féin and the DUP, exacerbates tensions. The UK government's response has been criticized for its perceived detachment. The article also reflects on historical events, including the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt and its global impact, and discusses the inspiration behind Ian Fleming's James Bond.

Tags:

DUP Loyalist Communities Council UDA UVF Red Hand Commando Sinn Féin IRA Boris Johnson's Government

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

I am based in Dublin as the Guardian's Ireland correspondent, covering Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. From 2012-18 I was based in Los Angeles as the Guardian's US west coast correspondent, covering arts, politics, immigration and the entertainment industry. From 2006-12 I was based ...

Jeffrey Donaldson appears in court on sexual offence charges

24 Apr 2024  |  the Guardian  |  English  |  Political Scandal

Jeffrey Donaldson, former leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, made his first court appearance in Northern Ireland on charges of sexual abuse against two individuals. The case has caused a significant political impact, leading to his resignation and suspension from the DUP. Despite denying the allegations, Donaldson's public image and political career have been severely affected. The legal proceedings are at an early stage, with potential for referral to the crown court, and are set against the backdrop of Donaldson's previous political achievements, including a deal on post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Tags:

Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) Police Service of Northern Ireland Stormont

Informative

Factuality Scale

Right

Political View

Phoebe Cooke is a freelance journalist based in London.

Question Time audience member cheered as he praises Boris Johnson for ‘knocking it out of the park’ with new Brexit deal

18 Oct 2019  |  The Sun  |  English  |  Question Time

A Question Time audience member received cheers for praising Boris Johnson's new Brexit deal, highlighting the PM's unexpected success in negotiations with the EU. The audience member, a Lib Dem-voting bricklayer, expressed increased interest in politics due to Johnson's actions. The BBC faced criticism for editing out part of his comments about Northern Ireland. The debate occurs as MPs prepare for a crucial vote on the deal, with Johnson needing support from various factions to secure Brexit by October 31. The DUP has vowed to oppose the agreement, complicating Johnson's efforts.

Tags:

DUP BBC EU Lib Dem

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Right

Political View

James Crisp is a journalist based in Brussels, Belgium. He is the Brussels correspondent for the Daily Telegraph, covering the EU, Belgium and Brexit. Over the last seven years, he has covered EU politics, financial services and energy regulation for MLex, EurActiv, The Sun and the New Statesman. ...

Celtic fans under fire for banner glorifying convicted IRA terrorist

26 Feb 2025  |  The Telegraph  |  English  |  Terrorism

Celtic Football Club faces criticism from Northern Irish politicians for a banner displayed by fans glorifying Brendan McFarlane, a convicted IRA terrorist. The banner, shown during a match against Aberdeen, has sparked calls for action from Celtic, the Scottish Football Association, and Uefa. DUP MP Gregory Campbell and MLA Phillip Brett have expressed their outrage, urging investigations by Police Scotland and the University of Glasgow, where a professor allegedly shared the display on social media. The incident adds to Celtic's history of controversial displays, including pro-IRA and anti-royal sentiments.

Tags:

DUP Scottish Football Association Uefa University of Glasgow Police Scotland

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Right

Political View

Deaglán de Bréadún (pronounced: Deg-lawn de Bray-doon)  is a freelance journalist, broadcaster  and author based in Dublin, Ireland. He previously worked as Political Correspondent with The Irish Times; Political Editor of The Irish Sun; Local Radio Correspondent with the Irish parliament's ...

New envoy's northern experience will be very different from his father's

28 Dec 2022  |  www.irishnews.com  |  English  |  Peace Process

The article discusses the significant role of the US in the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement of 1998, highlighting the involvement of President Bill Clinton and other key figures like George Mitchell and Jean Kennedy Smith. It introduces Joe Kennedy III, recently appointed as US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, and contrasts his expected experience with that of his father, Joe Kennedy, during his 1988 visit to Northern Ireland. The article touches on the political landscape, including the Northern Ireland Protocol and the reactions of various political leaders and parties.

Tags:

DUP US Government Sinn Féin SDLP IRA Official Unionist Party Democratic Unionist Party

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Beth Desmond is a journalist based in Brighton, United Kingdom.

Spell My Name with an ‘N’

07 Feb 2019  |  medium.com  |  English  |  Elections

The article explores an intriguing pattern where many successful political candidates in France, the UK, and the US have surnames ending in 'n'. It examines historical election results and suggests a potential correlation between surname endings and political success, though it acknowledges exceptions in countries like Germany and France. The analysis is presented with a mix of factual data and subjective interpretation.

Tags:

DUP Conservatives Labour SNP Lib Dems

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Andrew Eborn is a broadcaster, producer, presenter & journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

How failure can be the key to success – lessons from the general election

12 Jun 2017  |  The Drum  |  English  |  Failure and Success

The article discusses the outcomes and implications of the recent general election, highlighting the unexpected results and the perceived failures of Theresa May's campaign. It contrasts May's negative campaign with Jeremy Corbyn's more positive public perception, despite Labour not winning the election. The text also touches on Diane Abbott's media struggles and subsequent electoral success, suggesting that failure can lead to eventual success. The article concludes with speculation about future political leadership and the importance of embracing failures.

Tags:

DUP Conservative Party Labour Party

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Left

Political View

Nick Gutteridge is a freelance journalist based in Brussels, Belgium.

Calls to strip Fujitsu of £355m Brexit border contract over Post Office scandal unless it pays up

12 Jan 2024  |  The Telegraph  |  English  |  Government Contracts

Senior politicians are calling for Fujitsu to be stripped of its £355 million Brexit border contract unless it compensates postmasters affected by the Horizon IT scandal. The Japanese multinational, which won the contract for the Trader Support Service (TSS) in 2020, faces pressure from both London and Belfast politicians to contribute to the compensation package. The TSS, a significant post-Brexit trading arrangement, is set to continue beyond 2024. Despite the Windsor Framework reducing border checks, the DUP continues to boycott power-sharing in Stormont. Leading Brexiteers and conservative MPs also demand that Fujitsu be barred from future government contracts until it addresses the compensation issue.

Tags:

DUP UK Government Ulster Unionist Party European Research Group

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Right

Political View

Lee Henry writes freelance features for the Sunday Times, Belfast Telegraph, Northern Woman magazine and more. He also writes a monthly column for Northern Woman. He is based in Londonderry, United Kingdom. He specialises in features, culture reviews and video/audio production. Lee learned the ...

How Abomination: A DUP Opera raises voices against hate speech

18 Apr 2020  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Arts & Culture

In response to a homophobic attack and subsequent controversial comments by DUP MP Iris Robinson, Northern Irish composer Conor Mitchell created the opera 'Abomination' to address the rise in hate speech in Northern Ireland. The opera, performed by the Belfast Ensemble, sets homophobic statements by DUP politicians to music, aiming to raise awareness and challenge such rhetoric.

Tags:

DUP Belfast Ensemble

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Left

Political View

Leonie Kijewski is a journalist based in Brussels, Belgium.

Rishi Sunak weighs role of EU court as Tory hardliners wait on Brexit deal

28 Feb 2023  |  www.politico.eu  |  English  |  UK Politics

U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing the challenge of persuading his Conservative Party and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) to support a compromise deal on the Northern Ireland protocol. A technical agreement is reportedly ready for Sunak's approval, with governance and the role of the EU's top court as potential sticking points. Former Tory Cabinet minister Theresa Villiers insists on a parliamentary vote for any changes. The protocol, part of the Brexit divorce deal, has been opposed by Northern Ireland’s unionists, particularly the DUP. The EU's Brexit point-man Maroš Šefčovič acknowledges progress but notes remaining difficulties. The looming anniversary of the Belfast agreement adds pressure to resolve the dispute, with the potential for a

Tags:

Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) Conservative Party European Commission

Informative

Factuality Scale

Neutral

Political View

Christabel Lobo is a journalist based in Washington, United States of America.

There's a wealth of adventures to embark on when visiting Washington, DC.

20 Oct 2021  |  Business Insider  |  English  |  Local Attractions

The article provides a guide to unique and less commonly known attractions in Washington, DC, aimed at travelers looking to explore beyond the typical tourist destinations. It highlights a variety of activities, including kayaking on the Potomac River, visiting the US National Arboretum, exploring the art space Dupont Underground, and taking a food and history tour through the U Street Corridor. The article also suggests visiting The Reach at the Kennedy Center, tasting local craft beer and wine at places like District Winery and Right Proper Brewing, and enjoying the outdoors at Malcolm X Park and Rock Creek Park. Additionally, it recommends a tour of the Library of Congress and museum hopping on the National Mall, with a focus on the Hirshhorn Museum and the National Museum of the American Indian. The article serves as a comprehensive guide for those looking to experience Washington, DC's rich culture, history, and natural beauty.

Tags:

Dupont Underground White House US National Arboretum Kennedy Center Library of Congress Hirshhorn Museum National Portrait Gallery Smithsonian American Art Museum National Museum of the American Indian Rock Creek Park

Natalie Marchant is a journalist based in Manchester, United Kingdom, and an expert in Vienna, Austria.

Tory MPs who have been suspended or quit over claims of bad behaviour

25 Oct 2023  |  malaysia.news.yahoo.com  |  English  |  UK Politics

The article discusses a series of scandals involving Conservative MPs in the UK, highlighting cases of misconduct, misuse of funds, and inappropriate behavior leading to suspensions or resignations. Mark Menzies, among others, is accused of misusing donations and exhibiting behavior below expected standards. The piece also mentions similar issues faced by MPs from other parties, including Labour and DUP, reflecting ongoing challenges in maintaining ethical standards in UK politics.

Tags:

DUP Conservative Party The Times Labour Party

Informative

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View

Pasi Myohanen is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

Analysis: Theresa May's defeat brought Britain to the brink of a no-deal Brexit – the Prime Minister's position looks critically precarious

29 Mar 2019  |  Yle.fi  |  Finnish  |  UK Politics

The UK Parliament rejected Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal again, pushing the country closer to a no-deal Brexit on April 12 if no alternative solutions are found quickly. The Parliament will attempt to find a solution on Monday, with a customs union arrangement with the EU appearing as a promising option. May's position as Prime Minister is increasingly precarious, having promised to resign if her deal was accepted, which it was not. If no consensus is reached, May might present her deal to Parliament for a fourth time.

Tags:

DUP UK Parliament European Union

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Tasnim Nazeer is an award-winning journalist based in the United Kingdom. Tasnim freelances for a number of mainstream media outlets including Al Jazeera English, Huffington Post, The Guardian, BBC, CNN and many more. She was the first hijab wearing TV reporter in Scotland and does freelance TV ...

The riots in Belfast may have been sparked by Brexit, but tribal tensions were already rising to the surface

09 Apr 2021  |  inews.co.uk  |  English  |  Political Tensions

Recent riots in Belfast, the worst in years, have been fueled by longstanding political tensions exacerbated by Brexit and social issues in deprived areas. The violence reflects deep-seated tribal tensions and political alienation, particularly among loyalists who feel marginalized. The implementation of a trade border in the Irish Sea has intensified unionist grievances, while the fragile power-sharing government at Stormont continues to face challenges. Relationships between the main parties, DUP and Sinn Fein, remain strained, with historical and recent events contributing to the current unrest.

Tags:

DUP Sinn Fein IRA

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View

Dynamic and restless Journalism graduated with a range of interests, from which I highlight international affairs and the European Union. Amongst my abilities are strong communication and creative skills, which have been developed through my academic and professional experiences, since my early ...

British Parliament allows May to vote again on her Brexit deal

28 Mar 2019  |  La Información  |  Spanish  |  UK Politics

The British Parliament, led by Speaker John Bercow, has allowed Prime Minister Theresa May to present her Brexit deal for another vote on Friday. This follows May's offer to resign if her plan is approved and Brexit Minister Stephen Barclay's scheduling of a parliamentary session for the vote. Despite some support from Eurosceptic Conservatives, May still needs at least the abstention of her government allies, the DUP. The Parliament's failure to advance any of the eight different Brexit options previously debated highlights the ongoing crisis and division within British politics.

Tags:

DUP British Parliament Conservative Party

Informative

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View

Jack Parrock is a journalist based in Brussels, Belgium. He is specialised in live and packaged TV and radio news and moderating live events.

Varadkar says no-confidence motion will be defeated by 'significant margin'

23 Mar 2023  |  Irish Examiner  |  English  |  Social Housing

Leo Varadkar, arriving at an EU summit in Brussels, expressed confidence that the upcoming no-confidence motion against the government, tabled by the Labour Party, will be defeated by a significant margin. The government recently won a vote 83-68, despite opposition from Green Party TD Neasa Hourigan, who was subsequently suspended. Varadkar also welcomed Westminster's approval of the 'Windsor Framework' for post-Brexit changes in Northern Ireland, though the DUP's refusal to support it leaves the return of a functioning devolved government in Stormont uncertain. The EU summit will also address ammunition supplies for Ukraine, migration, and the economic situation in the euro area.

Tags:

DUP Labour Party Green Party European Union UK Government

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Dr. Clare Rice is an academic, writer and political analyst based in Northern Ireland. She is currently a Research Fellow at the University of Edinburgh. 

Her specialist areas are UK politics (particularly Northern Ireland), elections, identity politics, and Brexit. 

For recent publications, ...

Northern Ireland and the 2024 General Election Results

01 Jan 2024  |  Centre on Constitutional Change  |  English  |  Irish Unification

The 2024 General Election in Northern Ireland resulted in significant political shifts, with Sinn Féin consolidating its position as the largest party, advocating for Irish unification. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) faced losses, highlighting fractures within unionism exacerbated by Brexit and the Windsor Framework. The Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) retained its seats, while the Alliance Party and Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV) made gains. The election underscored the need for political realignment and effective governance in Northern Ireland, amid ongoing debates on its constitutional future and post-Brexit arrangements.

Tags:

Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) Sinn Féin Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) Alliance Party Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV) Westminster House of Commons Labour Party Irish Government

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Sir Ivor Roberts is a former British diplomat who served as ambassador in former Yugoslavia, Ireland and Italy. He is the editor of Satow's guide to diplomacy and on the advisory board of The Counter-Extremism project. He is based in Oxford, United Kingdom.

As dissident republican threat resurfaces, we risk sleepwalking back into an era of communal strife

05 Apr 2019  |  www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk  |  English  |  Northern Ireland Conflict

The article discusses the resurfacing threat of dissident republican violence in Northern Ireland, drawing parallels with past conflicts and emphasizing the need for political engagement and cooperation to prevent a return to widespread violence. It highlights recent actions by the New IRA, the political vacuum in Belfast, and the role of Sinn Fein as a bulwark against violent republicanism. The author criticizes the British Government's handling of Northern Ireland issues, particularly in the context of Brexit and the upcoming trial of 'Soldier F' related to Bloody Sunday.

Tags:

DUP IRA New IRA Conservative Government Sinn Fein British Government Irish Government Saoradh

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Danielle Ryan is a journalist based in Budapest, Hungary. Her work has appeared most recently in The Nation, Russia Direct, Salon, Rethinking Russia, teleSUR, RT, The BRICS Post and others.

How Brexit revived the nationalist dream of a 'united Ireland'

27 May 2018  |  Salon  |  English  |  Nationalism

Brexit has inadvertently increased the possibility of a united Ireland, a nationalist dream since the partition nearly a century ago. The political climate and Sinn Féin's rise in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have made discussions about reunification inevitable. Sinn Féin has rebranded itself as a party of social justice and equality, with Mary Lou McDonald as the new leader, distancing the party from its historical association with the IRA. Demographic changes in Northern Ireland and progressive social changes in the Republic have also contributed to the shifting sentiment. Economic and cultural challenges remain, but the political circumstances, including the potential of a Corbyn-led government in the UK and social changes in Ireland, have made the prospect of a united Ireland more plausible.

Tags:

Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) Sinn Féin British Labour Party

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Ben Tucker is a video-journalist based in Belfast, United Kingdom.

Former Video Editor at the Irish News, have worked at the Belfast Telegraph and Belfast Live.

If you need any help with filming/editing or interviewing any subject be it online or for broadcast please don't hesitate to get in ...

Edwin Poots breaks his silence after resigning as DUP leader

18 Jun 2021  |  www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk  |  English  |  Resignation

Edwin Poots, who recently resigned as leader of the DUP, spoke publicly for the first time since his resignation, stating he has no comment on who he will support as the new leader. Poots will remain in his position until a successor is chosen. His resignation followed a tumultuous period for the DUP, marked by internal conflicts and a significant disagreement over Irish language legislation. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson is the frontrunner to succeed Poots. The article details the events leading up to Poots' resignation and the subsequent reactions within the party.

Tags:

DUP Democratic Unionist Party Stormont

Informative

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View

Bruno Waterfield is Brussels correspondent for The Times. He has been reporting on European affairs for almost 20 years, first from Westminster and then from the capital of the EU. He reported for the Daily Telegraph from Brussels from 2007 to 2015.

Theresa May facing revolt over Brexit laws

21 Jun 2017  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Legislation

Theresa May faces significant challenges in passing Brexit-related legislation following her election setback. Key proposals from the Conservative manifesto have been dropped, and the government must now focus on preparing the UK for its departure from the EU. The Scottish Parliament may need to approve some legislation, adding potential delays and constitutional tensions. Negotiations with the DUP have stalled, complicating efforts to secure a stable majority. Jeremy Corbyn criticized the government's legislative program, while Philip Hammond defended May's leadership. The article highlights the political turmoil and uncertainty surrounding the Brexit process.

Tags:

DUP UK Government Scottish Parliament House of Lords Conservative Party Labour Party

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View