Conor Gallagher
Crime and security correspondent for The Irish Times who conducted the investigation tracing Aughinish Alumina's supply links to Russia and explains the findings on the episode.
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Mar 24, 2026 • 20min
How alumina from a Limerick refinery enters Russia’s weapons supply chain
Conor Gallagher, crime and security correspondent for The Irish Times, traced how alumina from Aughinish in Limerick moves through traders to Russian smelters and defence firms. He outlines the factory’s history, Rusal and oligarch ties, shipment routes from bauxite to aluminium, and why regulators hesitated to sanction this supply line.
Jan 2, 2026 • 27min
‘My Irish friends are awesome’ says Elon Musk – who are they?
Conor Gallagher, crime and security correspondent for The Irish Times, dives into Elon Musk's curious connections with three controversial Irish figures on X. He profiles far-right activist Michael O'Keeffe, whose provocative posts often attract Musk's attention. Barry O'Driscoll, known as 'Sir Doge of the Coin,' entices Musk with meme politics, while Keith O'Brien's extreme views raise red flags. Gallagher explains how Musk amplifies misinformation and the risks it poses for Ireland's image, stirring discussion about foreign influence and its consequences.
Dec 29, 2025 • 32min
The new IRB: How a shadow 'government' is operating under the radar in Ireland
Conor Gallagher, a crime and security correspondent for The Irish Times, dives into the surprising revival of the Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB). He reveals how this modern version, comprised of ex-anti-mask campaigners and conspiracy theorists, operates a shadow government in Ireland. Gallagher discusses their adoption of sovereign citizen ideology, claims to create a court system by 2030, and the establishment of local councils. He highlights the potential risks of this group's activities and the blurred lines between harmless cosplay and actual influence.
Nov 20, 2025 • 13min
A Russian spy ship is on course for Irish waters
Conor Gallagher, a Crime and Security correspondent for The Irish Times, and Retired Commander Caoimhin MacUnfraidh, a naval expert with 29 years of service, discuss the impending arrival of the Russian spy ship Antar. They explore its suspected role in undersea surveillance disguised as research and the vulnerabilities of Ireland's undersea cables. The guests debate Ireland's limited naval capabilities and the potential for increased UK engagement due to provocative actions by the Antar, while emphasizing the need for investment in defense to ensure national sovereignty.
Oct 30, 2025 • 6min
A new garda station at Citywest is being considered
Conor Gallagher, the Crime and Security Correspondent for The Irish Times, dives into the pressing issues surrounding policing in Citywest. He discusses the inadequacies of current police presence, highlighting concerns over under-policing. Gallagher also outlines preliminary plans for a new 24-hour Garda station on government-owned land, addressing local hopes for improved amenities and safety. The conversation delves into community fears and the complexities of deciding ownership and funding for this potential police facility.
