New arguments against abortion surface in a ‘retro’ Kieran Cuddihy Liveline show – The Irish Times
Irish radio program Liveline (RTÉ Radio 1) featured debates on abortion policy, Irish unification, and international football during the week of June 12, 2023, with host Kieran Cuddihy addressing topics that mirrored issues from decades past. The discussions included calls to maintain a three-day waiting period for abortions, arguments about Irish identity, and coverage of Pico Lopes, an Irish-born soccer player competing in the World Cup with Cape Verde.
What prompted the abortion debate on Liveline?
The abortion discussion was triggered by a Sinn Féin motion passed in the Dáil to eliminate a mandatory three-day waiting period for abortion procedures. Callers like Kiera and Mike expressed strong opposition to removing the waiting period, with Kiera emphasizing the emotional weight of such decisions and Mike citing potential harm to 100,000 unborn children over a decade. Host Kieran Cuddihy allowed callers to use their own terminology but challenged claims that framed the waiting period as a simple research tool.
How did the Irish unification debate unfold?
Monday’s conversation about a united Ireland followed Tánaiste Simon Harris’s announcement that Fine Gael would draft a blueprint for a “unified island.” While most arguments were predictable, caller Kevin expressed concerns about the Republic of Ireland “taking” Northern Ireland, alleging inherent violence and racism among Northern Irish people. Cuddihy responded by dismissing the claim as “utterly daft,” though the discussion reflected ongoing tensions around identity and division.
What role did Pico Lopes play in the week’s coverage?
Cuddihy highlighted Pico Lopes, an Irish-born soccer player representing Cape Verde in the World Cup, as a “welcome bright spot.” Lopes, a Crumlin native and Shamrock Rovers captain, became the first active League of Ireland player to participate in the tournament. His mother, Judy Lopes, described him as “taking it all in his stride” before his team drew with Spain, a story that underscored broader conversations about identity and migration.
What is the Control documentary about?
The 2FM series *Control* reexamined the careers of Mariah Carey, Kate Bush, Enya, and Sinéad O’Connor, focusing on their roles as innovators rather than traditional pop stars. The documentary, narrated by Renn Miano, highlighted their use of emerging technology and challenges to gender norms in the music industry. It was described as a “passionately argued and thought-provoking alternative history of pop” by the source.
The week’s coverage also included a notable interview on *Arena* with Colm Tóibín, who offered accessible advice for reading James Joyce’s *Ulysses*, and a segment on *Today with David McCullagh* discussing Lopes’ achievements amid rising anti-migrant rhetoric.
What may happen next?
Future Liveline episodes could see continued focus on contentious social issues, with calls for policy changes or public dialogue. The inclusion of figures like Pico Lopes may increase, reflecting broader interest in diverse identities. The *Control* documentary’s exploration of female musicians could influence programming trends on 2FM, though its audience reach remains uncertain.
As the show balances nostalgia with contemporary relevance, its ability to engage younger audiences while addressing long-standing debates will shape its future direction.
What prompted the abortion debate on Liveline?
A Sinn Féin motion to remove the three-day waiting period for abortions, which was subsequently passed, sparked calls from listeners opposing the change.
Who is Pico Lopes, and why is he significant?
Pico Lopes is an Irish-born soccer player who became the first active League of Ireland player to appear in the World Cup, representing Cape Verde. His story highlights themes of identity and migration.
What is the *Control* documentary about?
*Control* reexamines the careers of Mariah Carey, Kate Bush, Enya, and Sinéad O’Connor, focusing on their innovations in music and challenges to gender norms in the industry.
How might radio programs like Liveline adapt to evolving public interests while maintaining their traditional formats?