In 2020, a few weeks after Ireland entered one of the longest COVID lockdowns in the world, Patrick Dexter began uploading videos online of him playing the cello outside his cottage in County Mayo. In a matter of weeks, his life had changed forever.Producer Hugh Hick and Documentary on Newstalk bring you an intimately-told story of music and landscapes – and the part both play in our lives, sometimes without us realising it.Born and raised in Dublin, Patrick Dexter spent most of his twenties abroad, living for long stretches in Vietnam and the Netherlands. It was only after all this that Patrick and his partner Jan decided to try for a different type of existence. One as far away from the crowded city life they had always known as you could imagine. And so they moved to a tiny cottage outside Westport in Co. Mayo, determined to live an isolated and monkish lifestyle.Then, in 2020, that all changed.With COVID-19 spreading uncertainty into our lives and lockdowns confining us, Patrick began sharing videos of his own way of passing the days – sat outside in his garden, playing cello, the stunning landscape of the locality his background. What started as something to send to his friends quickly caught fire through Twitter and Instagram and within months was being viewed regularly by hundreds of thousands of people worldwide.This documentary tells Patrick’s story through his own words as well as those of his family and friends, including producer Hugh Hick, who has known Patrick since they were teenagers.But it’s not just Patrick’s story – it’s the story of a unique place in Ireland that continues to capture the hearts and minds of so many. And it’s the story of all of us, and why, at that most uniquely dark and incomprehensible of moments, something about a man playing cello to us through our screens compelled us and gave us something to latch onto.‘Strings’ was made with the support of Comisúin na Meán with the television licence fee.

Here on Documentary and Drama on Newstalk, Ben Finnegan has travelled to the African country of Malawi to look at the effects of climate change, and how organisations like Trócaire are helping them in 'Low Emissions, High Price: Climate Change in Malawi'.

Citadel is a group of musicians formed at the Kinsale Road Accommodation centre in Cork city in 2018, who refuse to be put down by the system. They are from different countries, such as Burundi, South Africa, DR Congo, Angola and Tanzania.The musicians perform songs from home, accompanied by rhythms and tunes from around the world. Citadel have played many concerts around Ireland and help to build bridges with the Irish community through their music.Some of the musicians are refugees, others are newly arrived International Protection Applicants. They all speak different languages, but music is their universal language.‘Citadel: Building Bridges Through Music’ is a documentary that explores the different stories of band members, how they came to be refugees in Ireland and the difficulties they face here. The founders of the band; Roos and Norbert speak about how they started the band and a not for profit organisation, International Community Dynamics.In June 2023, International Community Dynamics hosted ‘The Festival of Belonging’ in the Triskel Arts Centre in Cork. With poetry, spoken word, a conversation cafe, an art exhibition by refugee and Traveller artists and a conference on belonging at UCC, it was a busy weekend. The highlight of the weekend was a performance by Citadel.The documentary follows the band in the buildup to their performance, taking in rehearsals and nerves before they take to the stage on the night.Citadel raises awareness and spreads joy, peace and understanding by sharing their music with each other and with the Irish community and this is reflected in the programme.Produced by Alan Meaney.Funded by Coimisiún na Mean with the television licence fee.

Documentary and Drama on Newstalk brings you the almost forgotten true tale of Laurence Carroll, a working-class Dubliner turned sailor, who embarked on a journey that traversed continents, identities, and cultures.  This documentary, titled Laurence Carroll’s Mindful Anarchy: U Dhammaloka, The Irish Buddhist of Rangoon, tells the story of an Irishman, who, after ordaining as a Buddhist monk in the early 1900’s, under his monastic name U Dhammaloka, ascended to celebrity status throughout Burma and Asia, for his denouncing of Colonial Christian Missionaries and campaigning for the rights of Buddhists, while skirting colonial sedition and treason laws.              Shedding light on the enigmatic life of a man who defied norms, embraced Buddhism, and faced down the British Empire, his remarkable odyssey is chronicled from his humble beginnings in Dublin to his tumultuous years as a sailor and hobo in the United States before his eventual arrival in Rangoon, Burma, circa 1880.  With 25 years of his life prior to his arrival in Burma shrouded in mystery, Carroll's transformation into U Dhammaloka marked a turning point in the anti-colonial resistance in Burma and the Southeast Asia region. At the heart of this true tale lies U Dhammaloka's surely inevitable trial for sedition in 1911. The trial is a pivotal moment in Colonial Burma's history which drew international attention. Resonating with the masses, his defiance of colonialism garnered support from thousands, including multiethnic minorities across Burma and Southeast Asia, while at the trial, he is supported by Gandhi's esteemed associate Dr Pranjivan Metha.  Through interviews with those at the forefront of resurrecting Carroll's odyssey; dramatic reenactments, and factual storytelling, this programme reasserts U Dhammaloka's rightful place within Irish history and reveals the true reasons why this remarkable tale became almost lost to the sands of time.  The documentary is produced, edited, and presented by multimedia journalist and documentary maker Noel Sweeney. Funded by Coimisiún na Mean with the television licence fee.

Making Ireland Home, Henry McKean celebrates becoming an Irish citizen after 30 years with new Irish citizens.

Documentary on Newstalk presents a new documentary by producers Alan Meaney and Amanda Gunning go behind the scenes at the Another Love Story music festival in Co. Meath.One of Ireland’s premier small festivals, Another Love Story has been running since 2014. Set in the beautiful surrounds of Killyon Manor House Co. Meath over 3 days in August, the festival showcases both Irish and international acts. It is a custom-made festival with a focus on sustainability, smaller crowds, and an emphasis on a kinder, gentler festival setting. ‘Another Love Story’ documentary delves into the running of ALS festival and the music and attractions available.Founding members Peter O’ Brien, Emmet Condon, and Sam Bishop discuss some of the aspects of organising and hosting the festival. Live features from ALS 2023 include on-site chats with musicians, crew, and attendees, as well as musical performances showcasing the wide variety of genres and acts on offer to festival-goers. Crew and guests talk about distinctive features of ALS, including child and dog-friendly facilities, and sustainability efforts such as the Flushing Meadows compost toilets. The programme features performances and interviews with musicians Villagers’ Conor O’ Brien, Brigid Mae Power, JFDR’s Jófríður Ákadóttir, DJ Hewan Mulugeta, and Negro Impacto’s Chi Chi and StrangeLove. Other interviews include Psycare Ireland, Siobhan Kane of Young Hearts Run Free, and crew members Ali Morris, Octavian Fitzherbert, and Sarah Howlin. Another Love Story was produced by Alan Meaney and Amanda Gunning. Narration by Amanda Gunning.  The programme was funded by the Coimisiún na Meán with the television licence fee.

This documentary was produced by Valerie McHugh, with interviewee Aisling Smith and voiceover artist Jessica Bourke. It highlights Aisling's story with OCD, and her journey to recovery. It also includes a voiceover dramatisation of other people's experiences with OCD who have asked to remain anonymous.

Documentary on Newstalk presents a new documentary by independent producer Bairbre Flood. "Jewish Ireland" is an exploration of Jewish Irish history and culture - from Deli 613, to the Irish Jewish Museum: historians, musicians and Jewish groups and individuals share different aspects of modern Jewish culture in Ireland. Edwin Alkin talks us through the various artefacts, photographs and exhibitions at the Irish Jewish Museum in Dublin, and explains some of the history of Jewish people in Ireland. Dr. Melanie Brown tells us what she learnt from her involvement with the Jewish Oral History Project and the Inter-Faith Council - and what it means to her to be Irish and Jewish. Rabbi Zalman Lent and Rifky Lent at Deli 613 - the first kosher deli in Dublin in fifty years - share Jewish food and explain why they set up and how they’ve been received by the community. And then we head to Cork to meet klezmer composer Ruti Lachs, of the Cork Jewish Community and we’ll get her take on being one of the ‘new Irish’ Jews who’ve made Ireland their home. ‘Jews have been here since the time of the Normans. Jews are not strangers here, but they remain to be othered in a lot of ways. And that, to me, is very interesting. Why, after a thousand years,  why is there still this othering?’ - Dr. Melanie Brown. Produced by Bairbre Flood and funded by Coimisiun na Mean under the Sound and Vision Scheme. 

Presenter Sean Moncrieff catalogues his recent trip to Somalia in: “Reaching for Hope”. The Newstalk host spent a week with UNICEF staff in the African country, where one year on from the worst drought in over 40 years the country continues to face severe challenges when it comes to feeding its people. The United Nations was told in recent months that insecurity persists in Somalia, with extremist group Al-Shabaab and fighting in the Laascaanood region taking a heavy toll on civilians. The humanitarian situation remains deeply concerning, with nearly four million people facing hunger and about 1.2 million people displaced. Sean Moncrieff said people already affected by fighting in Somalia have faced further hardship because of climate change.

Documentary on Newstalk presents “The Iveagh Trust: How Ireland’s Richest Man Housed Dublin’s Poor”, in which producer Sarah Stacey explores the 133-year history of Ireland’s oldest housing charity.The Iveagh Trust was founded in 1890 by Edward Cecil Guinness, head of his family’s famous brewing empire, who at the time was the richest man in the country. His vision was to provide safe, clean and affordable housing to the working poor of Dublin. In the nineteenth century the city was home to some of the worst slums in Europe, with families crammed into overcrowded and unsanitary tenements. Disturbed by the conditions he saw in The Liberties, where his brewery was based, Guinness invested a considerable amount of his fortune into building housing and communities in the area.Sarah Stacey’s family connection to the Iveagh Trust goes back four generations. With the help of social historians, staff members and residents, including her own relatives, she looks at how one man’s generosity transformed the lives of thousands of Dublin families, and why the Iveagh Trust’s ongoing work is just as important in today’s housing crisis as it was over a century ago.Contributors include Tracey Bardon, engagement co-ordinator at 14 Henrietta Street (the Tenement Museum), historians Cathy Scuffil and Alan Byrne, Rory Guinness, chairman of the Iveagh Trust and great-great-grandson of Edward Cecil Guinness, former Iveagh Trust community officer Kelley Bermingham, and past and present residents Paul Tester, Pat Stacey and Tina Brennan.“The Iveagh Trust: How Ireland’s Richest Man Housed Dublin’s Poor” was produced and presented by Sarah Stacey, with additional production by Daniel Cahill and music composed by Emily Worrall. Special thanks to the Iveagh Trust and Dublin City Library and Archive. Funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the Television Licence Fee.

A new radio documentary, 35 Years of GCN, produced by Shaun & Maurice for Documentary and Drama on Newstalk, explores the story of Ireland’s LGBTQ+ community through the pages of Ireland's longest-running free LGBTQ+ publication and press.The story of GCN (Gay Community News) is also the story of LGBTQ+ rights, history, and culture in Ireland. Since 1988, the magazine has reflected and documented the lives and lived experiences of LGBTQ+ people. The first issue of GCN was published from a small office at the top of the Hirschfield Centre in Dublin’s Temple Bar, and since then it has been at the heart of the LGBTQ+ community.35 Years of GCN explores some of the LGBTQ+ stories captured by the magazine. The programme features an interview with Tonie Walsh who co-founded GCN with Catherine Glendon during the height of the AIDS epidemic. It features an interview with Senator David Norris about the foundation of GCN in the same year that he won his case against the Irish government at the European Court of Human Rights (which ruled the existence of laws in Ireland criminalising consensual gay sex to be illegal).The documentary also features interviews with former GCN editors Brian Finnegan and Lisa Connell, about the struggles and celebrations that have been documented by the nation’s LGBTQ+ paper of record—including the introduction of civil partnership, the passing of both the marriage and abortion referendums, and the introduction of the gender recognition act.The programme was produced with funding from the Coimisiún na Meán Sound and Vision scheme.

Documentary on Newstalk presents ‘The White Line’, a new documentary that reveals the shocking truth about how Irish Traveller children were treated in Irish schools and the unacknowledged apartheid that existed in the Irish education system for over 5 decades.Through personal testimony we hear how Traveller children were: kept separate from the settled children at all times; put in Traveller-only classrooms where they received little or no teaching; and were physically and mentally punished regularly simply because of who they were.All the voices, including that of the narrator, in this documentary belong to members of the Irish Traveller Community. The interviewees come from many parts of the country, from Tipperary, to Galway to Meath and Dublin and for most, this is the first time they have told their story publicly.‘The White Line’ was produced by Independent radio Producer Susan Dennehy. The Narrator was Christine Collins. The Final Mix was by Moynihan Russell Studios.The programme was funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the Television License Fee. 

Documentary On Newstalk presents a new documentary by producer Pavel Barter.  Telling the forgotten story of how Irish immigrants built a Wild West mining town two miles high in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado in Cloud City. This portrait of Irish diaspora, in one of America’s most ruthless settlements, explores the lives of two characters whose names live on in Leadville lore: Mart Duggan from Limerick, one of the most fearsome yet respected lawmakers in the American West; and Michael Mooney, a union leader from Dublin who fought for worker rights. This month (September, 2023) sees the opening of a memorial to the Leadville Irish, who until now had been forgotten in unmarked graves at the town’s Evergreen Cemetery. Credits:Pavel Barter: presenter and producer. Michael Mellamphy (Red Dead Redemption 2) plays Mart Duggan and Michael Mooney. With thanks to David Wright (research) and Wil Masisak (VO recording). Funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the Television License Fee. 

In “The First Hundred Years: Albert Dryer and the Irish National Association” producer J.J. O'Shea explores the aims and achievements of an important Irish Cultural organisation founded in 1915 in Sydney, Australia, and the life of the man who was the driving force behind the association. The story of the Irish in Australia remains a relatively unexamined aspect of the Irish emigration story and this programme shines a light on some surprising aspects of that story."The First Hundred Years" was Produced by J.J. O'Shea.Excerpts from the INA Centenary Oral History Project were used with the kind permission of the National Library of Australia.This programme was supported by a grant from Coimisiún na Meán as part of the Sound and Vision Scheme.

Producer Michael Cullen introduces us to some of Ireland's most successful quizzers. "Know It All" looks at the quizzing scene in Ireland, and talks to some of its most successful participants, including two winners of Mastermind, and a winner of the million on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire.

Producer Patricia Baker of Curious Broadcast takes a walk past the many famous and infamous statues and monuments in Dublin, in the radio documentary Dead White Men, and considers who and how we commemorate. By talking with academics and arts practitioners she asks questions about the monuments that we have chosen to destroy, those we have kept and those perhaps we should not. This is a walk through the monuments controversy past and present. Dead White Men is a Curious Broadcast Production, Funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the Television Licence Fee.

Unbeatable Together presented by Henry McKean is a documentary which celebrates the Special Olympics in Berlin, with all the success and tears of emotion as Special Olympics Ireland brought home 75 medals.

New radio documentary ‘Tainted Blood’ lays bare the devastating impact of infected blood products on the Irish Haemophilia Community In 1982 the first case of HIV was recorded in Ireland. By 1985 all people with haemophilia were being tested for the disease. More than one third of them were found to be HIV positive having contracted the disease through infected blood products that were made up of pooled plasma from thousands of donors, much of which had been imported. Colm Walsh, who has haemophilia, features on the documentary. As a child Colm and his older brother Brendan were treated with the same blood products and, by some cruel twist of fate, Brendan contracted HIV and eventually died of AIDs. Colm did not, but sadly did contract Hepatitis C, another disease which ravaged the haemophilia community in the late 80s as a result of infected blood products. Colm shares his remarkable story on the documentary, he said, “Despite the fact this happened over 40 years ago some of us are still living with this grief. Not only the grief of losing our loved ones, but for how we were treated and for the lengths we had to go to for the injustice against our community to be acknowledged. This documentary is an important piece of work that shares the heartbreak and distress we went through. We have many reasons for hope today but we can never forget what happened because it can never be allowed to happen again.” Another key voice in the documentary is Brian O’Mahony, Chief Executive of the Irish Haemophilia Society, which became a significant support network, lobbying on behalf of people with haemophilia and their families (which eventually contributed to the collapse of the Irish government in 1989). They set up services to care for the dying, at a time when there was significant stigma associated with the diseases of HIV and AIDs. The documentary shares stories of the torment and shame experienced by those who contracted HIV and AIDs as well as their families, and how, in many cases, they never shared their diagnosis owing to this stigma. Brian said, “It was like going through a war, it was a cumulative trauma to the whole community. It brought our members very close together and despite the huge number of deaths our community is hugely resilient. This story is one that everyone in Ireland should know because we can never let anything like this ever happen again. That message has been a big part of our ethos since we first became aware of the plight of so many of our members. “We were a tiny, volunteer-run organisation before this crisis and now, following years of trauma and campaigning we can proudly say we have one of the best haemophilia treatment systems in the world. Out of the darkness has come some light. I would encourage anyone to take the time to listen to this documentary and understand what happened to our community because all those deaths cannot be in vain.” Kelly Crichton, documentary maker, said “I was incredibly moved when I first encountered these stories and knew there was a whole generation of Irish people out there who would know nothing or very little about this. I wanted to share this story because it’s hard to fathom just how abandoned this community was and yet, in banding together they overcame so much. “The Irish Haemophilia Society went above and beyond in their support - risking prosecution by handing out condoms to members, which were illegal at the time. They set up palliative care and worked with undertaker services because of the stigma and protocols associated with death of those infected with HIV or AIDs. Families could then follow traditional funeral arrangements without the fear of their loved one being outed as a HIV and AIDs victim. It truly beggars belief what they had to go through without government support. “I’d like to thank everyone who I spoke to for the documentary. These are some of the bravest people I have ever met and it was a privilege to record their stories.” Other voices from the haemophilia community share the heartache, shame, stigma, fear and hurt they experienced. It is a story of fear, isolation, empathy, heart-breaking selflessness and triumph through adversity. "Tainted Blood" was funded by Coimisiún na Meán, with the television license fee.

Clonmany is a small village in rural Donegal. On the edge of the village is a long, narrow single-story building with a tin roof. This plain building is home to World Champions. This is the home of Clonmany Tug of War club, who train here in the autumn and winter nights, pulling together for another tilt at European and World glory. They build them big, and they dream big, in Clonmany. The World indoor championships are held every two years and will take place at the Aura Leisure Centre in Letterkenny in February 2020. The championships will attract up to 1,000 competitors and spectators from around the World to Letterkenny. But in the weeks leading up to the championships there is growing unease about a strange virus from the east, Covid. Would Big Danny’s dream be scuppered? ‘Pulling Together’ was produced and edited by Jim Doherty with the aid of funding from the BAI’s Sound and Vision scheme.

Documentary On Newstalk presents "‘The Irish Divorce” an original radio series by Jonathan Farrelly. "The Irish Divorce - ‘When you and your spouse over time start leading completely separate lives and sleeping in different rooms, but don't divorce because you're Irish Catholics.” Told from the perspective of a Therapist and a couple that has gone through ‘an Irish Divorce’ and came out the other side, this series looks to uncover and go deep within the psychology of ‘The Irish Divorce’. Our therapist, Debra Armstrong will take us on a journey from the outside in, while our couple, ‘Wil-ly and Breda’* will take us on their journey, from the inside out. *Please note, due to the sensitivity of the topic and our couples wish to rename anonymous, their names have been changed and their testimonies have been recorded by actors.

During a recent period of unrest in the troubled Palestinian territories producer Brian Kenny travelled to meet those Palestinian women who are suffering both under the Israeli occupation and in a deeply patriarchal society. In the Hebron hills, we hear from a community denied access to their lands, education, and in some cases electricity. We hear how one strong woman rose up against all the odds facing down the IDF and illegal settlers to build a school ensuring the education of future generations. In the Gaza strip, described by one resident as an open prison, the community workers tell us about the daily struggles facing its inhabitants but primarily how it is the women that suffer the most, be it through a lack of access to education and rule over their own lives, or living in daily fear of Israeli attacks. "Fighting on Two Fronts" showcases the struggles and triumphs of these women, highlighting their determination to fight for their rights and make a difference in their communities. From organizing protests at great personal risk to campaigning in their communities’ Palestinian women are often at the forefront of a difficult struggle for justice. Fighting on two Fronts was produced and edited by Brian Kenny (www.kennysound.com) with the aid of funding from the BAI’s Sound and Vision programme. Voice over and translation by Dina Al Jaro.

Across Ireland, people are doing exciting and important science, even though they didn’t train as scientists. They are documenting sightings of birds and insects, of lizards and newts. They are playing games that improve our understanding of the human mind, mapping meteors across our solar system, and testing the water in our rivers and streams. They are even helping unearth our history at archaeological dig sites. In this programme, we explore the field of ‘citizen science’, we find out about the projects people are contributing to, and we discover how it is improving our understanding of science. Citizen Science, was produced by Shaun & Maurice (aka science communicator Shaun O'Boyle and artist Maurice Kelliher) and was funded by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television Licence Fee. ‘Citizen Science’ features: ● Jonathan Mackey from DIAS Dunsink Observatory ● Susan Hegarty from the DCU Water Institute ● Claire Gillen from Neureka ● Kieran Flood from The Irish Wildlife Trust ● Tara Adcock from Birdwatch Ireland ● Graeme Warren and Conor McDermott from UCD School of Archaeology

Documentary On Newstalk presents "Undocumented", independent producer Bairbre Flood brings us the stories of those who have been living in Ireland, Undocumented, and the impact the groundbreaking regularisation scheme has had.  Last year saw the start of a groundbreaking regularisation scheme for thousands of people who’ve been living and working in Ireland for many years without papers. It came after ten years of campaigning by migrant communities working with the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI) in the ‘Justice for Undocumented’ campaign. Albert Bello, Irene Jagoba, Neil Bruton and Claudiane Lima share their experiences of working on the campaign and why it’s so important to continue and broaden the scheme. Bello and Jagoba share how it has affected their lives and they explain why it’s vital that this scheme continues for new arrivals. For them, and all the people who’ve been living in a state of limbo for so long, this has been a life-changing scheme. And for those who missed out and for those still arriving it offers a template for how we can continue to regularise migration in Ireland. As of now, nearly 8,000 applicants have received a stable and secure status, with roughly 3000 people still waiting for their result. But some people - like Claudiane Lima who has been living in Ireland for nine years, with her children - didn’t qualify for the scheme. And there are people arriving all the time who could benefit from a continuation of a regularisation programme. ‘We know the life - it wasn't easy,’ said Irene Jagoba. ‘We’re hoping that the scheme will continue without a closing date. So that no one - no undocumented people - will live undocumented for a very long time, because it was a tough life.’ For more information on this ongoing campaign please go to the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland - www.mrci.ie Produced by Bairbre Flood with the support of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) under the Sound and Vision Scheme.

The fascinating stories of five religious Irish women who worked in the missions abroad; why these women chose the life that they did and the challenges they faced not only on their missionary posting but also the difficulties encountered on return home to Ireland. CREDITS: ‘Mission Possible’ was produced, recorded and edited by Grainne McPolin. Assistant Producer: Kelly Crichton Music: composed and arranged by JJO’Shea Music: ‘African Percussion’ Pollypony Studio facilities Thanks to Kerry College, Monavalley Campus, Tralee, Co Kerry Special thanks go to: Missionary Sisters of St Columban Missionary Sisters of The Holy Rosary Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles Daughters of Charity of St Vincent de Paul Dr Carmen Mangion Historian Birkbeck University of London Dr Yvonne McKenna Sociologist and Author of ‘Made Holy: Irish Women Religious at Home and Abroad Sr Kathleen McGarvey OLA Mr David Rose Secretary General AMRI Sr Susanna Choi Congregational Leader Missionary Sisters of St Columban ‘Mission Possible’ documentary is dedicated to the memory of Radio Presenter Sheila O’Regan RIP. ‘Mission Possible’ was funded by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television Licence Fee. https://www.newstalk.com/documentary-and-drama-on-newstalk/mission-possible-1454985

The Fixer, a Newstalk exclusive documentary about Sean Moncrieff’s week in Ukraine. Presented by Sean Moncrieff, produced by Ausling Moore, with additional audio production by Lochlainn Harte.

To coincide with International Roma Day on April 8th 2023, Newstalk present a new radio documentary. Produced by independent radio producer Susan Dennehy, ‘A Roma Girl in Dublin’ reveals the personal experiences of four women from the Roma community living in Ireland. The stories of four women feature in the documentary ; Gabi Muntean, Vanessa Paszkowska, Sylvia Covaci and Marioara Rostas. ‘A Roma Girl in Dublin' was produced and narrated by Susan Dennehy. Research by Sean Harper. Sound Mix by Moynihan Russell Studios. The programme was Funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television License Fee.

Documentary on Newstalk, presents a new documentary by producers Shaun O’Boyle and Maurice Kelliher. In 'Looking Up' we meet the astronomers working in an historic observatory in Castleknock Co Dublin. DIAS Dunsink Observatory is a beautiful building, located in Castleknock in Dublin, and filled with centuries of space-related history, telescopes, stories, artefacts, diaries, and equipment. We take a tour of the observatory with astronomers who work in this historic building. We explore the site's history, and we discover what kind of scientific research happens there today - from studying solar flares to space weather, nearby planets to distant galaxies. Looking Up is a Shaun and Maurice production, produced by Maurice Kelliher and Shaun O’Boyle, and was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the sound and vision scheme.

Newstalk reporter Josh Crosbie travels to Somalia with Trócaire to see the impact the worst drought in over 40 years is having on the country. He met with those who are providing supports on the ground and also with the families who have been affected as part of Trócaire's Lent Appeal.

Documentary on Newstalk presents - a new three part series, produced and narrated by Patricia Baker. Each documentary charts the life and work of one extraordinary woman who broke the ground for the next generation of women. Ground Breakers: Dervilla Donnelly is an insight into the life and work of Emeritus Professor of Organic Chemistry at University College Dublin, Dervilla Donnelly. The documentary traces the role she played in Ireland’s’ scientific success, not just with her own scientific research, but with her influence on science policy and as a mentor for some of Ireland’s leading scientist. Ground Breakers is a Curious Broadcast production funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television Licence Fee.

As part of a series of three programs, Producer Patricia Baker looks at the life and work of three women, who broke ground for future generations. In this episode, a former Supreme Court Judge and member of the Council of State of Ireland, who has been involved in some of the most important children’s and women’s rights and child protection changes in Ireland. Ground Breakers: Catherine McGuinness, is a Curious Broadcast production funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television Licence Fee. Produced and narrated by Patricia Baker, final mix Domhnaill Corrigan, at Contact Studio. Choral music courtesy of the Culwick Choral Society. Original music score by Gerry Horan. For more on the series visit www.newstalk.com

Documentary On Newstalk presents "The Good Samaritans" - Produced by Bairbre Flood, made with the support of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, Sound and Vision Scheme. What motivates us to help others, and why should we help others? What does the latest psychological research show us about our brains on altruism? And are there ways we can be more effective altruists - especially for those from other countries or future generations? Psychologist, Dr. Dean McDonnell tells us about the latest research into what’s really going on in our brains when we’re a good samaritan - and how we can encourage this in our children. We hear from Shaza Aldawamneh, a Syrian student in Cork who teaches coding online to refugees; long-time humanitarian Mary Coffey, missionary nun Sr Majella McCarron; MSF coordinator Sarah Leahy, and founder of ‘The Free Humanitarians’ Sean Binder. We’ll also have a look at how we can be more effective altruists with William MacAskill, author of ‘How To Good Better’ and ‘What We Owe The Future’. Produced by Bairbre Flood with the support of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, Sound and Vision Scheme. With thanks to The Kabin Studio Cork for their music, ‘Teach Love, Harsh Winter’.

The beauty, power and wonder of the sea as told by ex-fishermen, marine ecologists and environmental activists. Producer Bairbre Flood takes to the sea with Colin Barnes, Cork Whale Watch, on an ethical whale and wildlife tour, and meets with volunteers with the Bantry Bay Protect Our Native Kelp Forest campaign, lobster fisherman Kieran O’Shea, and marine biologist Shazia Waheed. Niall MacAllistar of Sea Kayaking With The Seals brings us out to explore Adrigole Harbour and Padraic Fogarty (Whittled Away: Ireland’s Vanishing Nature) of the Irish Wildlife Trust explains what can be done to help protect the seas. Produced by Bairbre Flood with funding from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland Sound and Vision Scheme from the television license fee.

In ‘The Southern Cross – The Irish Argentine Connection’, radio producer Ciarán Ryan travels to Buenos Aires, Argentina to find out more about The Southern Cross, a newspaper that was launched in 1875 by an Irish priest. The Southern Cross has had a lively and fascinating existence since, and this is unpacked in this one-off documentary. A newspaper with a Catholic ethos at its core, The Southern Cross has been a significant part of the Argentine-Irish community for almost 150 years. In a pre-internet era, we will hear that it was very much a part of every Irish household in Buenos Aires and beyond. The project was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound and Vision Scheme.

‘A Man From Cork’ tells the fascinating true story of Dermot Fenton who made national headlines in 1998 following a rare heart and lung transplant operation which involved a race against the clock and a ‘mercy dash’ to London on the Irish Government Jet. Narrated by his brother Pio, this documentary details the medical challenges Dermot faced with Cystic Fibrosis, his enduring spirit and sense of humour in the face of challenges, and the life altering impact his transplant would have for two other families that fateful night in 1998. Narrated by Pio Fenton. Produced by Daniel Cahill. Archive News clips courtesy of Virgin Media Television. This is a story about transformative nature of organ donation and the importance of living life to fullest.

In ‘Black and Irish, Navigating Racism In Ireland’, Producer Caroline Mudingo Dipanda examines institutional racism in Ireland within the Irish industrial care system and the education system. We talk to Bukky Adebowale, born in Ireland, President of the student life at Maynooth University, Sandrine Ndahiro, PhD student in African Literature originally from Kenya and Cameroon-born artist Alicia Raye who spent her teenage years in Direct Provision centers. They share personal stories to explain how racism and discrimination is prevalent in their daily interactions in colleges and universities. We meet Black Irish teacher Alex Mbowua, activist Myriam Poizat (YARI), Adult learner advocate and Africa-Ireland Network's founder Joy-Tendai Kangere and Patricia Munatsi, the Policy Officer for the Irish Network Against Racism: overview of the education system and the national policies. Assistant Professor of Black Studies Dr Philomena will give an in-depth look at her childhood in the Irish industrial school system to depict race relations in the 1960's and 1970s and how they affected the construction of Mixed- race women's identity. We also discuss the recent introduction of Black Studies in the curriculum. We delve into the impact of encounters with racism. Aisling O'Neill shares a searing testimony about the trauma inherent to racism and its impact on her daughter, Mia O'Neill, who took her own life in 2019. She reflects on the role of the education system to foster a better understanding of race and racism." 'Black and Irish, Navigating Racism In Ireland’ was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound And Vision Scheme.

“Eoin Hand, A Life in Football and More”. Former Republic of Ireland Senior Soccer Manager, Eoin Hand, reflects on a career at the top of Irish soccer, as a player and as a manager in the international limelight. Produced by by Peter Grogan and supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound And Vision Scheme.

From quiet full-moon swims to high energy races, cups of tea on the beach to glasses of prosecco by the Liffey, The Sea Is My Sky captures the community, competition, and joy of sea swimming on Ireland’s east coast. The Sea Is My Sky – was produced by Maurice Kelliher and Shaun O’Boyle, and was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound and Vision Scheme.

Producer Alan Meaney explores the disparity between male and female and female identifying musicians in Ireland in ‘Equalization’. The programme features music and interviews with Karan Casey, Pauline Scanlon, Ellll, LOLZ, Renn, Ódú and Aoife from Alien She. It is narrated by the singer and actor Tracy Bruen. The contributors are Karan Casey and Pauline Scanlon (Fair Plé), Karen Miano (DIAXDEM Collective), Sally Ó Dúnlaing and Aoife Nic Dhonnacha (Girls Rock Dublin), Ellen King and Laura O’Connell (Gash Collective). The programme was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound And Vision Scheme

Producer Jonathan Farrelly talks to some famous sporting sisters about what it's like to play on the same teams in football and camogie. In episode two, we meet with Mary and Mena Sheridan, who lined out for both club and country in Ladies Football in Meath. We look at the family connections in ladies football and how they’ve played an important part in growing the sport.

Producer Jonathan Farrelly talks to some famous sporting sisters about what it's like to play on the same teams in football and camogie. In episode one we meet camogie greats, past and present; Kate, Niamh and Joanne O’Gorman in Clare and the infamous Downey Twins, Ann and Angela in Kilkenny.

As part of Documentary on Newstalk producer J.J. O`Shea looks at the ways in which the Irish in America were able to assist the flood of Jewish immigrants escaping the pogroms of Eastern Europe and Russia in the nineteenth century and were in a position to help them overcome problems of prejudice, poverty and outsider status in “The Shamrock and the Star.” The Shamrock and the Star features excerpts from an interview with the late Mick Moloney. Doctor Moloney was a leading authority on the role of the Irish in nineteenth century American Music and Song and we are very grateful for his contribution here.

Reporter Laura Donnelly travels to Kenya to document how the communities and aid workers are responding to the worst drought in 40 years. "When Rain Fails" is presented by Laura Donnelly and edited by Lochlainn Harte. The programme was made with thanks to Concern.

This weekend, Documentary on Newstalk airs the premiere of TRINITY, in which IMRO-nominated producer Brian Gallagher looks at the lives of the many people who live, work study, and play in Trinity College. Using a lively mix of interviews, location recordings, sound effects and music, TRINITY  explores the stories behind Ireland’s oldest university.

Documentary On Newstalk presents "Extraordinary Éire" a fast paced dash through the history books. A two-part documentary series focusing on the discoveries, inventions and successes attributed to Irish people throughout history, many of which are largely forgotten by today’s society. Episode Two, Up In The Éire, looks to the skies, and tells the stories of Irish aviation and the heroes of Irish flight, those who have emigrated and Irish products which have been sent to the four corners of the earth, chemists who furthered our understanding of gases, revolutionary astronomers and the first witch trials in Western Europe. Written and narrated by Donncha O’Dea. Produced and edited by Amy O’Dwyer. Various voices by Aisling Breen, Anthony Kinahan, Margaret McAuliffe, Ste Murray, Ciaran O’Grady, David O’Meara and Deborah Wiseman. The programme is funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, with the Television Licence Fee.

Documentary On Newstalk presents "Extraordinary Éire" a fast paced dash through the history books. A two-part documentary series focusing on the discoveries, inventions and successes attributed to Irish people throughout history, many of which are largely forgotten by today’s society. From perforated stamps to CGI animation, from Milk of Magnesia to Cream Crackers, an Irish person has had a hand in inventing and discovering some of the most commonly used things in everyday life. And as for amazing accomplishments and fascinating feats, Irish people throughout history have created societal changes which helped shape the world in which we live. The first episode, Our Land, deals with the Irish affinity with the Irish sod, and tells stories of seismologists and farming revolutionaries, navigators who have discovered new lands, Irish sport and dance stars, and Irish men and women who have made a name for themselves in new lands. Episode Two, Up In The Éire, looks to the skies, and tells the stories of Irish aviation and the heroes of Irish flight, those who have emigrated and Irish products which have been sent to the four corners of the earth, chemists who furthered our understanding of gases, revolutionary astronomers and the first witch trials in Western Europe. Episode 2 – Up In The Éire – will air on Newstalk on Sunday June 5th at 7am (repeated on Saturday June 11th) Both episodes will be available as a podcast on GoLoud and all major platforms. CREDITS: Written and narrated by Donncha O’Dea. Produced and edited by Amy O’Dwyer. Various voices by Aisling Breen, Anthony Kinahan, Margaret McAuliffe, Ste Murray, Ciaran O’Grady, David O’Meara and Deborah Wiseman. The programme is funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, with the Television Licence Fee.

‘Kila: Suas Síos - In and Out of Lockdown’ tells the story of how trad/indie band Kila traversed almost two full years of COVID-19 restrictions within the live music sector. The life blood of Kila is playing live; and while in the middle of a European tour during March 2020, COVID-19 hit. CREDITS - Producer was Noel Sweeney. The programme was presented by Ellie O’Byrne. Editor was Noel Sweeney. Assistant Producer was Ellie O’Byrne. All interviews were recorded by Noel Sweeney while all Live performances were recorded by Tom Skerritt.    This documentary was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland Sound and Vision Scheme through the television license fee.  

Documentary On Newstalk presents 'Rebel Prisoner', the story of Seamus Cavanagh, a British army soldier turned Irish Volunteer who was interned in multiple prisons and camps between 1916-24 including Wormwood Scrubs, Frongoch internment camp and the prison ship Argenta. Contributors: Colm Toland, Dr Adrian Grant, Michael Gallagher. Sound Recordist: Gerry Tracey, Mix and additional editing: Rory Donaghy at Blast Furnace. Voice actor was Aoife Schlindwein with traditional singing by Grace Toland. Rebel Prisoner is a Raw Nerve production, produced and presented by Otto Schlindwein and funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television Licence Fee.   Image courtesy of Colm Toland - Seamus Cavanagh and Sara with children circa 1916

As part of Documentary on Newstalk a new programme by producer JJ O'Shea, telling the story of the development of 19th century mansion, Muckross House in “A Gift to The Nation”. “A Gift to The Nation”, tells the story of the development of Muckross House after it was gifted to the people of Ireland in 1932. Today the house is a museum and one of the most visited attractions in Ireland and in retrospect it may seem this is an obvious destination for its use, but several other possibilities were explored before that decision was reached. A Gift to The Nation is produced and presented by J.J. O`Shea and funded by The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland.  

Documentary on Newstalk, Producer Patricia Baker celebrates the medium of the wireless in: To Radio With Love. Every day in Ireland over three million people listen to the radio. As we go about our day, more often than not, it is the radio that informs, entertains and stimulates us. Originally broadcast in 2014, To Radio With Love is a radio documentary which consists of a series of letters, a love letter if you will, written and then read out over the air by a diverse group of individuals ranging from radio presenters, development workers, and slum radio practitioners, to civil rights activists, artists and poets. These audio letters tell the story of how radio helps build communities, gives a voice to local people, and shapes modern culture. A soundtrack of iconic radio broadcasts from around the globe accompanies the letters. The contributors on To Radio With Love are: Joe Duffy, June Rodgers, Keith Somerville, Rosemary Day, Pat Herbert, Tole Nyatta, Simon Maher, Theo Dorgan, Míchéal O’Muircheartaigh, Margaretta D'Arcy and Knut Aufferman. To Radio With Love is a Curious Broadcast production made with the support of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland. Produced by: Patricia Baker and Myra Hayes Edited by: John Gough Narrated by: Patricia Baker

This is not a story just about whiskey but one about identity, emigration, politics and life told through the water of life itself! The fact that the word whiskey comes from the Irish word uisce speaks volumes about the history our nation has with this world-famous beverage. However, it’s not as straightforward as the method of production being invented and the brand growing, the story of whiskey is one entangled in politics and history with twists and turns at every corner.  It’s a story that goes as far back as Irish monks in 1000 AD, about a drink that ruled the world from its dominant distilleries in Dublin before it all came crashing down. As Irish whiskey died off Scotch took the reins, Japanese whiskey followed and it looked likely that Irish Whiskey would be lost forever to the history books.  Out of the ashes a few key players began a rebuild and decades later Irish whiskey has made a dramatic comeback. This documentary tells the story of how it all started, how it almost ended and poses the question on its future.  We hear from distillers, businessmen, publicans and historians from Dublin to Cork to Scotland’s Highlands to unpack the story of Whiskey, Uisce Beatha, the Water of Life.  Produced and edited by Brian Kenny (www.kennysound.com) for Newstalk with the assistance of the BAIs Sound and Vision Scheme. 

Exploring the harmful effect of man-made noise pollution on the whales and dolphins inhabiting Irish waters in a new radio documentary by producer John Higgins: A Sea of Sound Over 90% of Ireland’s territory is under the sea and this vast underwater environment is home to 25 different species of whale, dolphin and porpoise, from deep diving beaked whales hunting squid in the spectacular mountains and valleys of the ocean floor off our west coast, and humpback whales feeding and foraging here on their long migratory routes from Africa to Iceland, to resident species such as the bottlenose dolphins living all year round in the Shannon estuary. With each passing decade however, man-made noise in the ocean from sources such as fishing and shipping has effectively doubled, creating a dense acoustic smog which our marine mammals are forced to navigate through, impacting massively on these highly intelligent animals and their ability to feed, reproduce, migrate and communicate. What happens when the ocean becomes so full of noise that whales and other cetaceans can no longer hear each other sing? In the midst of a worldwide extinction crisis, the increasing number of dolphins and whales washing up injured or dead on Irish coves and beaches is a major cause for concern. A Sea of Sound also examines what can and is being done to turn down the volume of man-made noise in the sea and what might be done to try and protect this beautiful acoustic environment and the creatures that live there into the future. Over the course of the documentary John travels around the Irish coast, on land and on the water, talking to a diverse range of people who care about our marine environment, from scientists, conservationists and volunteers to politicians and fishermen. A Sea of Sound is an As the Crow Flies production funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland and is produced by John Higgins, edited by Francesca Lalor and mastered by Neil Kavanagh, Image Credit: Nick Massett  

Through a mix of conversation with Dr Sabina Brennan and self-recordings, migraineurs Aaron, Siobhan and Fiona share their experience of life with migraine in "Imaginers"  Dr Edward O'Sullivan, Director of the Migraine Clinic at Cork University Hospital takes us inside the migraine brain offering a medical and scientific perspective Credits: Producer/Presenter Sabina Brennan. Editor Emily Burke. Assistant Producer Angela Mezzetti.  

"Whispers" is a drama telling the story of Jane, who through a series of misdiagnosis learns she has ovarian cancer. Set in her bathroom, having been sick during her daughter’s sixth birthday party, Jane reflects on the journey from diagnosis to the present day. Echoing the stages of grief, Jane battles through misdiagnosis and the feeling of not being listened to, to finding friendship and humour in the most unusual of places. She challenges the familiar mantra of ‘keeping positive’ and in turn finds herself challenged to tackle the issues of intimacy, mortality, life and love. "Whispers" was written and produced by Ruth Hayes. Directed by Eoin Ó hAnnracháin. Sound design by Ruth Hayes and sound engineer Warren Tivy. Cast Ruth Hayes, Claire J Loy and Shane Casey. "Whispers" was made with a grant from the broadcasting Authority of Ireland through the Sound and Vision Scheme Further resources. www.ovacare.ie www.cancer.ie www.emercaseyfoundation.com www.ovarian-cancer.ie

Episode Two  On the one hundredth anniversary of the publication of James Joyce's masterpiece Ulysses; a two part radio drama that tells the story of Bloomsday, June 16th 1904. 'Strolling Through Ulysses'. This programme contains adult themes. Episode two will be available on next Sunday, Feb 13th. CREDITS: ‘Strolling Through Ulysses’; written and narrated by Robert Gogan. Script editing, various voices and direction by Eimear Finan. Produced, recorded and edited by Alan Meaney. Music played by Danny Weir. Bloom Played by Paul Fred McCloskey The Reader played by Tracy Bruen Molly played by Zita Monahan-McGowan Stephen played by John Rogers Various voices by Bob Kelly, Francis Finan, Orla McGovern and Conor Geoghegan. The programme is funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland,with the Television Licence Fee.

 On the one hundredth anniversary of the publication of James Joyce's masterpiece Ulysses; a two part radio drama that tells the story of Bloomsday, June 16th 1904. 'Strolling Through Ulysses'. This programme contains adult themes. Episode two will be available on next Sunday, Feb 13th. CREDITS: ‘Strolling Through Ulysses’; written and narrated by Robert Gogan. Script editing, various voices and direction by Eimear Finan. Produced, recorded and edited by Alan Meaney. Music played by Danny Weir. Bloom Played by Paul Fred McCloskey The Reader played by Tracy Bruen Molly played by Zita Monahan-McGowan Stephen played by John Rogers Various voices by Bob Kelly, Francis Finan, Orla McGovern and Conor Geoghegan. The programme is funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland,with the Television Licence Fee.

Radio award nominated, "WHO KILLED BILLED?", written and directed by award-winning filmmaker Marc-Ivan O'Gorman, produced by Daryl Moorhouse of Tinpot Productions, tells the compelling story of the life and death of Irish-born Hollywood director William Desmond Taylor. A top director of his time, his murder in February 1922 became the biggest scandal of the day and ultimately changed Tinseltown forever as it led to the introduction of what would be known as The Hays Code. Taylor's story contains all the elements of a racy Hollywood plot; glamour, sex, drugs, betrayal, corruption, intrigue and, of course, murder. Funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television Licence Fee.  

Documentary On Newstalk presents - "Childless" a new documentary by producer Hilary Fennell. "It’s hard to imagine that there remains a subject so taboo that although shared by one in five women over 45, it is never discussed. That subject is being childless, but not by choice." -  Hilary Fennell, programme maker and journalist is one of a growing number of such women in Ireland. In this  documentary she explores what it means to be childless in a child-centred society and breaks the taboo of ‘social infertility’ by hearing the stories of six women. "The thing that infuriates me most are the ‘bingo’ comments: ‘Why don’t you just adopt? Why not buy sperm? Why not use a surrogate?’ As if it was that simple,’ comments psychotherapist Jody Day." Presenter Hilary delves into the emotional, physical and social impact of childlessness and why she feels it is such a huge taboo. "All the media wants is the happy-ending-miracle-twin IVF stories, or the women who are childless by choice. Nobody ever talks about the years of baby-mania - hormone testing kits, invasive treatments, crazy diets, acupuncture, herbal remedies, reiki healing, you name it. All, for nothing,’ says children’s mental health support worker and a solution-based hypnotherapist Jemma White. Sensitive but probing, with interviews recorded on location in the subjects’ homes aided by creative soundscapes and a contemporary score by Daragh Dukes. "Childless" was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television Licence Fee. 

Trigger for Change is new radio documentary, created by artist Sinead McCann in collaboration with The Bridge Project. Produced by Sinead McCann and Alan Meaney in collaboration with The Bridge Project. Music by Eamonn Bailey. The documentary explores the challenges people with a criminal record face in securing employment on release from prison. It focuses on the difficult life stories of these people, but finds hope in their recovery and how they have built new lives through education, community engagement and employment. This project is funded by the Arts Council Artist in the Community Scheme, managed by Create. The research and development was funded by Dublin City Council Culture Company  Trigger For Change is included in First Fortnight Festival 2022. www.firstfortnight.ie

Documentary on Newstalk, producer Lisa Gernon tells the story of the voices behind the phenomenal success of ‘Irish Women in Harmony’.  In 2020 ‘Irish Women in Harmony’ a collective of over 40 Irish female artistes came together – while apart - to record a cover of The Cranberries’ hit ‘Dreams’ which was one of the most successful musical collaborations of 2020 and raised over 250K for domestic abuse charity Safe Ireland. ‘Irish Women in Harmony - Behind the Voices’ was produced by Lisa Gernon and was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound and Vision Scheme. In ‘Irish Women in Harmony - Behind the Voices’ RuthAnne, Una Healy, Lyra, Karen Cowley from Wyvern Lingo and Erica Cody tell the story of how this amazingly talented group of women came together to make this happen and thus creating this inclusive, supportive, empowering musical community for Irish female artists.

In ‘The Wicklow Round’, radio producer Ciarán Ryan meets with and follows a number of runners who have taken on The Wicklow Round, a grueling 110km+ self-navigated challenge to 26 summits in the Wicklow Mountains. The documentary charts the origins of the ‘round’ back to the early part of this century, meeting some of the pioneers involved in setting the route and those who took it on first. The Wicklow Round gives a taste of what awaits in the Irish mountain running community, with plenty of mud, sweat and tears (to borrow from the title of contributor Moire O’Sullivan’s book on the round) along the way. The documentary was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, through the television licence fee.

Documentary on Newstalk presents “Captain Jack Crawford: The Poet Scout”. Producer Jim Doherty puts on his cowboy hat to tell the story of the Donegal man who became a Wild West hero, poet, and entertainer in “Captain Jack Crawford: The Poet Scout”. “Most people will have heard of such icons of the American West as Buffalo Bill, Wild Bill Hickok, General Custer, Sitting Bull, and Calamity Jane; men and women imbued with a sense of adventure, who lived in dangerous and exciting times. But how many know the amazing story of their friend and contemporary, Captain Jack Crawford? Or that he was born and reared in Carndonagh, Co Donegal, and that he shaped much of what we know of today as the ‘Wild West’? Captain Jack (known as "The Poet Scout"), was a master storyteller about the Wild West and was one of the most popular performers of the late nineteenth century. Our documentary tells the amazing story of a penniless and illiterate teenager who fled famine and poverty in Ireland to achieve fame, fortune and adventure in the US.” “Captain Jack Crawford: The Poet Scout" was produced by Jim Doherty and was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound and Vision Scheme

This week on Documentary On Newstalk - "The Troublesome Nun" a new radio documentary on the life and times of Margaret Mac Curtain, a Dominican Sister whose lifelong determination to write women into mainstream Irish history changed the narrative of Irish history forever. Margaret was a historian, a feminist, a teacher, a human rights activist, and a nun. ‘This documentary is an important way to capture the impact that Margaret had which was quite a wide impact.’ said Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland. ‘It was as an historian, as a feminist, long before people were calling themselves a feminist, as an educator, as a Dominican nun, and as a women with such warmth and kindness and humour, that she made everyone, male and female, love her for herself and what she gave of herself. The Troublesome Nun is part of a forthcoming series of three documentaries, each one charting the life and work of one extraordinary woman who broke the ground for the next generation of women. These older women did not just witness a changing Ireland; they were the change makers themselves. The Troublesome Nun is a Curious Broadcast production funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television Licence Fee, produced and narrated by Patricia Baker. Final mix Gerry Horan Contact Studio. Original Music score Gerry Horan.  

Director Órfhlaith Foyle and producer Alan Meaney bring you the story of May Mullen. In 1900s Ireland, a fiercely independent woman rallies against traditional expectations in ‘May’s End’. CREDITS: ‘May’s End’ was written and directed by Órfhlaith Foyle. Produced, recorded and edited by Alan Meaney. The cast are Tara Finn, John Burke, Gerry Howard, Joan Gildea, Eimir Creedon, Austin Prior and Gerry Ferguson. Original artwork by Órfhlaith Foyle. Original artwork by Órfhlaith Foyle.

This weekend on Documentary On Newstalk we remember the events of September the 11th 2001. And hear the story of its first official victim, proud Irish-American and chaplain to the New York Fire Department, Father Mychal Judge. This is "Last Hour - the story of 911's First Victim" Credits: Last Hour - the story of 911's First Victim was produced by Sorcha Heron and narrated by Mary McEvoy. And was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound And Vision Scheme.

Simon Tierney presents a special programme to mark the 20th anniversary of the September 11th attacks in the US, as he investigates how the tragedy impacted Irish families.

 ‘Two Thieves’, a darkly-comic audio drama written by Hugh Hick and produced by Heather MacLeod. In an alternate dystopian society, two criminals are up for the public vote on a Government-sponsored radio programme – and only one can be saved. With echoes of Beckett, a biblical story becomes a contemporary exploration of populist rehabilitation and political manipulation, and whether in a world run on the fingertips of snap judgements and mob rule, can anyone really be saved? Bleak and comic in equal measures, Two Thieves holds a lens up to the things we think we know about the people we’ve never met. The drama features Mary Murray, Matthew Malone, Michael James Ford and Margaret McCauliffe with original music composed by Justin McCann. Two Thieves was written and directed by Hugh Hick, and produced by Heather MacLeod.  The programme was made with the support of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television License Fee. 

As Team Ireland compete in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, Documentary On Newstalk presents another chance to hear 2016's 'Personal Best – The Story Behind Irish Women in Paralympic Sport’ by Susan Dennehy.  In 'Personal Best', radio producer Susan Dennehy profiles, and follows over the course of several months, the progress of two female athletes who went on to represent Ireland at the Paralympic Games in Rio in 2016. Through incredible personal stories, the massive impact sport can have on women’s lives is gently revealed. At just 21, swimmer Ellen Keane was about to compete in her third Paralympic Games. Ellen, who was born without her left forearm, went on to win a bronze medal at the Paralympic Games in Rio in 2016 and has recently won god at Tokyo 2020. For Deirdre Mongan who was 38, the 2016 Paralympics was her first time to compete at the Paralympics. Galway woman, Deirdre, was paralysed in a farming accident at the age of 14. She has never let her disability compromise her life, as well as being a world class athlete, she has a full-time job, and is mum to Amy, age 2. With exclusive access to the women and their families, this documentary is not just about elite athletes, it’s about daughters, mothers and wives who strive to fulfill their potential in both their everyday lives as well as in their sporting careers. CREDITS: ‘Personal Best – The Story Behind Irish Women in Paralympic Sport’ was produced and narrated by Susan Dennehy. The programme was made with the support of the BAI, Sound and Vision Grant.

"Full of Heart" examines the extraordinary events of October 9th 2016, when mother of one Michelle Herbert from Newcastle West, suddenly lost consciousness while playing in the Limerick Junior camogie county final. ‘About five minutes into the second half, I just felt dizzy and I put my hurley out to steady myself and I collapsed," Michelle recalls of the incident. Suffering a cardiac arrest, Michelle lay unconscious as her family including her husband Jer and son Conor watched on as she clung to life. In that moment the game ceased to be, the roar of the crowd faded as the seriousness of the situation became evident. Both sets of players who had fought against each other over the previous 40 minutes now fought together – for Michelle's life. Tournafulla’s Sarah Jane Joy had been marking Michelle when she collapsed. As fate would have it Sarah Jane is a nurse and her training took over immediately. Acting on instinct she began compressions. As players, mentors and supporters from both parishes watched on, Sarah Jane along with the help of other teammates battled to save Michelle's life. “Full of Heart” was produced by Connie Broderick and Joe McGill and was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound And Vision Scheme.

Documentary on Newstalk presents a new two part series 'THE FARMERS WHO WENT WILD'. Mary Brophy retraces the story of the supposedly unlikely friendship between two farmers and an ecologist.  And how their shared love of wildlife saw them attempt to reverse the devastating impacts of decades of intensive farming on biodiversity, in one Cork river valley. ‘The Farmers who went Wild’ is presented by Mary Brophy, written and produced by Neal Boyle, and was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, with the television license fee.

Documentary on Newstalk presents a new two part series 'THE FARMERS WHO WENT WILD'. Mary Brophy retraces the story of the supposedly unlikely friendship between two farmers and an ecologist.  And how their shared love of wildlife saw them attempt to reverse the devastating impacts of decades of intensive farming on biodiversity, in one Cork river valley. ‘The Farmers who went Wild’ is presented by Mary Brophy, written and produced by Neal Boyle, and was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, with the television license fee.

This weekend on Documentary on Newstalk, producer Regan Hutchins tells the story of how thousands of books by Irish and International authors were banned in Ireland in the 20th Century.  This documentary assesses the impact of a strict regime of censorship on writers and readers over a 40 year period, leading up to the 1970s and it hears how censorship and self-censorship is not a thing of the past. Evil Literature and Censorship is presented and produced by award winning producer Regan Hutchins who is joined by Declan Kiberd, Aoife Bhreatnach, Jana Fischerova, Julia Carlson, Andrea Nagle, Noelle Dowling, James Kelly and Pól Ó Duibhir Evil Literature and Censorship is funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland under the Sound & Vision Scheme.  

On Documentary on Newstalk, producer Jonathan Farrelly takes a trip back to Kilkenny in the 1980’s, when one of the greatest ‘dynasty’ teams in history began their famous streak of winning... in part two of a new radio documentary series: ‘Dynasty; The Greatest Ladies Teams Of All Time’. The Greatest Ladies Teams Of All Time’ was Produced by Jonathan Farrelly and was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound And Vision Scheme.

The first in a two part radio documentary series: ‘Dynasty; The Greatest Ladies Teams Of All Time’. In 1948, the Dublin Camogie team went on a streak of winning All Ireland titles that may never be surpassed. ‘DYNASTY: The Greatest Ladies Teams Of All Time’ was Produced by Jonathan Farrelly and was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound And Vision Scheme.

‘From Rebel Leader to Peace Activist: The making of George Lennon’ charts the life of the man who, inspired by tales of Patrick Sarsfield growing up, would go on to lead the West Waterford Flying Column during the Irish War of Independence. ‘From Rebel Leader to Peace Activist: The making of George Lennon’ is written and narrated by Simon Maguire, produced by Simon Maguire and Susan Cahill with original compositions and audio mastering by Scott Tobin.

  Signing In: The ‘New Irish’ Writers, is produced by Bairbre Flood and funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland under the Sound & Vision Scheme. Poets and editors from Nigeria, Zimbabwe, India and South Africa give us an in-depth look at diversity in Irish writing and publishing. Nidhi Zak/Aria Eipe, Christie Kandiwa, Chandrika Narayanan-Mohan, Khanyo Dlamini and Chiamaka Enyi-Amadi read their poetry of love, migration, family - and share their own unique experiences of ‘home’. They reflect on the power of language to shape identity, and the connection between writing and social change.

Producers Jonathan Farrelly and Dave Thorpe look at the story of the Baltinglass GAA team that won the 1990 football club All Ireland.    

Produced by Simon Ó Gallchobhair ‘Town of Kings’ uncovers the hidden history of Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. The town of Dún Laoghaire, on the coast of Co. Dublin, is a place of hidden histories and contested identity. Founded on the ruins of fifth century fort, the building of a harbour in 1817 led to the creation of Dún Laoghaire.  The town was renamed Kingstown following the drunken visit of George IV in 1821, before reverting to it’s original name in 1920. Town of Kings documents the rapid growth of this seaside Victorian town up to the present day. The program weaves together the perspective of historians and long time residents who have witnessed the town's contrasting fortunes. The historian Tom Conlon reveals the squalid slums of Kingstown hidden behind opulent retailers. The rise of nationalist Ireland is explored with an IRA assassination attempt in the town. Local residents who share their family history include pawn-broking in the 1920; selling newspapers on George's Street in the 1960s; old world pharmacists and a daring 1980's pig escape. Dún Laoghaire's main street has weathered good times and bad over the last 200 years as brought to life in: Town of Kings. CREDITS: Town of Kings was made with the support of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland. The programme was produced and edited by Simon Ó Gallchobhair. Special thanks to all of the people of Dún Laoghaire and to Tom Conlon author of 'Victorian Dún Laoghaire: a town divided'. Town of Kings was originally broadcast in July 2018.

‘Behind the Wall’ tells the story of four men and women with Irish connections who lived behind the Berlin Wall. It is also an investigation into what it was like to live in one of the most guarded and restrictive countries in the world. Behind the Wall was originally broadcast on Newstalk in November 2014. In an unprecedented move, the East German authorities opened the border between East and West Germany on November 9th 1989. What they envisaged was the broadening of the travel rights of their citizens. What resulted was a different story: a deluge of people descended on the Berlin Wall and celebrated a new freedom, after 28 years of isolation. ‘Behind the Wall’ explores the very fabric of life in an extraordinary society while attempting to understand what drew people from Ireland to East Germany and vice versa. CREDITS: ‘Behind the Wall’ was written, produced and edited by Simon Tierney.

Radio producer Shane Hannon brings us back half a century to the Apollo Program and our first steps on another world in: ‘Picking Up Some Dust’. The documentary was largely recorded pre-lockdown, and uncovers some fascinating Irish links to that ‘One small step.’ Producer Shane Hannon takes us on journey from the Texan Hill Country to the Dunsink dump, and from rural Indiana to a moon-themed housing estate in Coolock. The programme was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television License Fee. CREDITS: Picking Up Some Dust was Produced and Narrated by Shane Hannon. Sound design by Rachel Hannon. Mastered by Neil Kavanagh. With thanks to all the contributors.

 ‘Angels of Mercy’ produced by Grainne McPolin, which explores the story of the women who left Ireland to train and work as nurses in England across the second half of the 20th Century and were an often overlooked but important element in the development of the UK National Health Service.  We will hear how these young women began lives in a whole new world “I remember there were two Malaysian and three English girls living there as well, but the rest of us, we were from every corner in Ireland; we worked hard and we played hard and as a nurse you see life, you see death and also everything in between..” Angels of Mercy is a story told through the experiences of five Irish women of different generations who made their careers in nursing in England between 1950 and 1980.  In addition, historians Professor Louise Ryan, Professor Jennifer Redmond and Dr Sarah O’Brien give context to the women’s narrative Presenter and producer Grainne McPolin worked as a nurse herself in England and brings her own experience to the narrative. “Angels of Mercy” was produced by Grainne McPolin and funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland under the Sound and Vision Scheme.

Documentary On Newstalk celebrates Ireland’s cycling Greenway. On Your Bike, is an exploration of Ireland’s first greenway, the Westport to Achill route.  Seen through the eyes of a group of social cyclists who travel it in a day, the programme also tells the history of the former rail line, and explores the lives of the diverse range of people who work, live and cycle along its route. On Your Bike was originally broadcast on Newstalk on Sunday 8th October 2017. CREDITS: ‘On Your Bike’ was edited and produced by Brian Gallagher.  The programme was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television License Fee.

 Producers Maurice Kelliher and Shaun O'Boyle explore a global effort to improve brain health and reduce the impact of dementia, in "New Knowledge" In Ireland, more than 55,000 people are living with dementia. In this documentary, we visit the Global Brain Health Institute in Dublin, and meet researchers who are looking for new ways to support people living with dementia, to better understand its causes, and to plan for a future where dementia is on the increase.  "New Knowledge" was produced by Maurice Kelliher and Shaun O'Boyle, and was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound And Vision Scheme. New Knowledge Transcript

"Letters from Midwinter" provides a rare insight into the private conversations of women in Ireland between 1970 and 2020, through their personal letters. Produced, written and narrated by Susan Dennehy. The Researcher and Script Editor was Joanna Marsden. The programme was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television License Fee. Additional support was provided by An Post.

This week on Documentary on Newstalk - to mark the 60th anniversary of the Irish Wheelchair Association Newstalk is broadcasting "A Boy From The North West".  Producer Susan Dennehy and writer Joanna Marsden team up to tell the story of Donegal-man Jack Kerrigan. Paralysed in a diving accident in 1949, he was one of the first wheelchair users to participate in Irish society and one of the members of Paralympics Ireland's first team in 1960. It is a poignant account of what it was like to be a wheelchair user in Ireland in the 50s & 60s. Jack’s memoirs are read by Mikel Murfi and original music is by Andrew Synott. The programme was made with the support of the BAI, Sound and Vision Grant.

This new radio documentary explores what happened when a physicist asked, “What is Life?” All life on this planet has something very important in common: DNA. It’s packed into every cell of our body, filled with instructions and tools for those cells to do what they need to do. It carries important information from one generation to the next, just as it did from the beginning of life throughout evolution to every living thing on the planet today. ‘What is Life?’ examines the impact of a series of public lectures given by Erwin Schrödinger in 1943 in Dublin, when he attempted to understand the chemistry of life and inheritance. "What is Life?" was produced by Maurice Kelliher and Shaun O'Boyle, and was supported by a grant from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, as part of the Sound And Vision Scheme.

Centenarian Joe Veselsky takes us on a personal journey through his first thirty years, the most turbulent of the twentieth century in Eastern Europe. ‘No Ordinary Joe' is recounted by Joe Veslesky. Recorded, produced and edited by Éamon Little, with editing assistance from Ted Little. Sound mixing was by Alan Kelly. ‘No Ordinary Joe' was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the television license fee, and received a special mention from the Whickers Radio & Audio Funding Award, 2020.

Another chance to hear the critically acclaimed, award winning ‘Coma’. In a small town somewhere in Ireland, a young man lies in a coma. His daily visitors confide in him and reveal their innermost secrets. COMA was produced by Macanna Teoranta and written by Kevin McCann and Peter Murphy Sound recording by Paddy Greenan and Shane O’Connor, with mastering by Maddu Kambamettu and editing by Seamus Callagy The play was performed by Catriona O’Reilly, James McInerney, Michael Olwell, Orla Cahill, Zoe Hickey, Joanne Brennan, Hugh Leddy, Fergal McAloon, Regina Donoghue, and Sean Nulty. COMA was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland via the Sound and Vision Scheme.

Four stories of separation & reunion. Giving an insight into Ireland’s very recent history when adoption was the number one solution to pregnancy outside marriage. "A Pocket of Time - The other side of the Irish Adoption Story", originally broadcast in April 2014 and was produced by Susan Dennehy. The programme was made with the support of the BAI, Sound and Vision fund.

Originally aired in 2016, produced by Eric Moylan and narrated by former professional boxer, olympian and Limerick man Andy Lee.  This documentary examines the relationship between the Limerick and sport. A city where there is 101,000 capacity across 5 stadia for a metropolitan population of 105,000 people. What drives the passion for Ireland’s sporting capital? A City's Love Affair was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the television licence fee.

  Journalist Sinead Aherne was diagnosed with breast cancer in March of 2017.  Breast Cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women in Ireland. Most are over 50, but younger women can also get the disease too. Sinead was 32 when she was diagnosed.  Produced and presented by Sinead Ahern, ‘Breast Cancer and Me’ explores life with cancer and life afterwards. ‘Breast Cancer and Me’ originally aired on WLR and was awarded silver in the documentary category at the 2020 IMRO Radio Awards. And was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the television licence fee.

Written by Niall Murphy The Fabulous Doctor Singer is based on true events from 1950s Ireland & brings to life the main players involved in a scandalous stamp collection scam that lead to one of the lengthiest court cases in the history of the Irish state. It tells the story of the most unlikely pyramid scheme of the 20th century and the flamboyant huckster, who masterminded it Dr. Paul Singer. Starring Steve Furst, Colin Murphy & Phelim Drew and an ensemble cast featuring Cillian O'Dee, Janet Phillips, Peter Campion, Maurice O'Donoghue, Donagh Deeney, Michelle Read, Marcus Lamb, Liam Heffernan, Gráinne Bleasdale and Sean T Ó Meallaigh this black comedy recounts the tale of an outrageous scam that made fools of the Gardaí, the Attorney General, thousands of investors and the most renowned legal minds of the day. This is a Macalla Teo production; written & directed by Niall Murphy, produced by Cian Mac Cárthaigh with sound supervision by Steve McGrath and Cúán Mac Conghail as Executive Producer. This radio play was funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland under the Sound & Vision funding scheme.

This weekend, Documentary on Newstalk airs the premiere of ‘The Bots’, in which IMRO-nominated producer Brian Gallagher looks at the lives of those who live, work, study, and relax in the vicinity of Ireland's National Botanic Gardens. The Bots will be broadcast on Newstalk 106-108fm on Sunday 30th August at 7am with a repeat broadcast on Saturday 5th September at 9 pm.  Using a lively mix of interviews, location recordings, sound effects and music, The Bots explores the stories behind one of Ireland’s most popular visitor attractions, The National Botanic Gardens. Director Matthew Jebb gives an overview of the role of the Botanic Gardens and explains how it hosts six hundred thousand visitors each year.  Matthew also tell of its research role, and how the blight that caused the Potato Famine of the Eighteen Forties was identified by the then director of the Gardens. Blathnaid Farrell, who grew up nearby, reminisces about the Gardens when she was a child, while librarian Alexandra Caccamo tells of a history going back much further, with some books in the library dating back to the sixteenth century. Matthew Jebb talks of the joys of living on site, and tells the story of the Director’s Residence, which predates the founding of the Gardens in 1795. Brendan Sayers gives an insight into the running of the glasshouses, and how tropical heat needs to be generated for some plant species. Glyn Anderson and Charlotte Salter Townsend talk about the guided tours they give, with Glyn reflecting on the refreshment options available to the modern-day visitor. Contributors and visitors reminisce lightly about their memories of the first thing they ever grew, while Ciaran Kavanagh and Alfreda O’Brien, who run the nearby Gravediggers pub, talk about the colourful associations between their premises and the Botanic Gardens. John Mulhern, Principal of the Teagasc College of Horticulture, discusses how hundreds of students study at their Glasnevin site within the Gardens, while Felicity Gaffney, the manager of the Visitor Centre, gives details of the surprising range of cultural and artistic events that are staged each year in the fifty-acre grounds. Matthew Jebb tell of the wildlife he’s encountered while living on site, and Colin Kelleher talks of his role as a taxonomist and the task of naming the vast numbers of specimens that have been catalogued in the Gardens. The programme concludes with contributors revealing what the Botanic Gardens means to them, and their hopes for its future. Quotes from THE BOTS: “The first place we made for was the glasshouse.  And when you went in the heat would just hit you.  In those days you wouldn’t have central heating at home – so that was super.”  Blathnaid Farrell, childhood visitor to the Botanic Gardens. “Our back garden is about an acre and it backs onto the Botanic Gardens and the cemetery.  The neighbours are basically the cemetery people and plants.” Ciaran Kavanagh, The Gravedigger Pub. “One of the real pleasures of the job is that I wake up at work each morning.” Matthew Jebb, Director, Botanic Gardens. “Our book collection extends back to the Fifteen Thirties.” Alexandra Caccamo, Librarian. “The pub, the cemetery, the Botanics, it’s like the Bermuda Triangle – you do disappear in that triangle in Glasnevin, and before you know it, four hours have passed.” Alfreda O'Brien, The Gravedigger Pub. “In the Herbarium there are about six hundred thousand dried specimens”.  Colin Kelleher, Taxonomist. “The world is changing quite a lot, and I think the big positive is that more and more people are paying attention to the natural world.” Charlotte Salter Townsend, tour guide. “It took 25 years to put it together.  There are 11 kilometres of glazing bars in this building, and it’s a work of art.”  Matthew Jebb, Director, Botanic Gardens. “I used to go into the hothouse - when I missed Italy.” Ciaran Kavanagh, The Gravedigger Pub. CREDITS: The Bots was produced by Brian Gallagher, and funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television License Fee. BROADCAST: The Bots will be broadcast on Newstalk 106-108fm on Sunday 30th August at 7am with a repeat broadcast on Saturday 5th September at 9 pm. Podcast goes live after first broadcast. LISTEN LIVE ONLINE: 'The Bots can also be listened to online at: www.newstalk.com PODCAST: The Bots is broadcast as part of the Documentary and Drama On Newstalk Series, which showcases the best of original, homegrown and groundbreaking Irish Radio features. Podcast full series here:  https://www.newstalk.com/podcasts/page/1/filter?filter_selected=show-filter&show=documentary-drama-newstalk&series=all Listen and subscribe to Documentary on Newstalk on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.    Download, listen and subscribe on the Newstalk App.    You can also listen to Newstalk live on newstalk.com or on Alexa, by adding the Newstalk skill and asking: 'Alexa, play Newstalk'.