See how it works
Book Deaglan with Paydesk
Make your booking securely through paydesk for these benefits:
1
Preferred Booking Channel
Deaglan is more likely to commit to assignments booked through paydesk, as it is a trusted platform that validates the seriousness and legitimacy of each engagement.2
Insured Bookings for Peace of Mind
We provide basic insurance coverage with each booking on paydesk, giving both you and the media professional confidence and protection while they work for you.3
Effortless Online Payment
Paydesk offers a payment protection system to ensure payments are only finalized when you are satisfied with the job completion. Freelancers trusts our process that guarantees their efforts are rewarded upon successful delivery of servicesStill have questions?
Check FAQAbout Deaglan
Deaglán de Bréadún (pronounced: Deg-lawn de Bray-doon) is a freelance journalist, broadcaster and author based in Dublin, Ireland. He previously worked as Political Correspondent with The Irish Times; Political Editor of The Irish Sun; Local Radio Correspondent with the Irish parliament's communications division at Leinster House, Dublin. Other positions he held in a long career with The Irish Times include Northern Ireland Editor, Foreign Affairs Correspondent, Moscow Correspondent, Irish Language Editor and Feature Writer/Copy Editor. His books include 'Power Play: The Rise of Modern Sinn Féin' (Merrion Press, 2015), 'The Far Side of Revenge: Making Peace in Northern Ireland' (Collins Press, 2001 and second edition in 2008) and "Sceallóga (Chips)", a collection of short stories in Irish published by Comhar Teo. His coverage of the negotiations leading to the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland won the IPR/BT press and broadcast award for daily news journalism. A native of Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, his family moved to Dublin where he attended CBS Synge Street and UCD. He holds a master's degree in English literature.
English
Live Reporting
Fact Checking
Breaking News
Fact Checking
Portfolio
Vicky Phelan: Courageous campaigner who brought CervicalCheck screening scandal to light and who was given six months to live in 2018
Vicky Phelan, a prominent figure who exposed the CervicalCheck screening scandal in Ireland, passed away on November 14. Born in Waterford city, she pursued education at the University of Limerick and later worked at the Waterford Institute of Technology. Diagnosed with advanced cervical cancer in 2014 due to a misreported smear test, she settled a lawsuit against Clinical Pathology Laboratories Inc. for €2.5m. Despite her diagnosis, she advocated for cervical screening and access to the drug Pembrolizumab, which significantly reduced her tumours. Her campaign led to a scoping inquiry by Dr. Gabriel Scally, revealing systemic failures in the CervicalCheck program. Phelan, who received numerous accolades for her advocacy, planned her own funeral, requesting no black attire. She is remembered for her courage and demand for action and accountability.
Obituary: Ivor Browne, acclaimed psychiatrist who was a mental health pioneer and remained defiant when censured over Fr Michael Cleary scandal
Ivor Browne, an acclaimed psychiatrist and mental health pioneer in Ireland, passed away surrounded by family and friends. His work significantly impacted psychiatric care, introducing groundbreaking therapies and confronting dehumanizing systems. President Michael D Higgins and others paid tribute to his fearless challenges to the status quo. Browne's life included a diverse range of interests and achievements, from co-founding Claddagh Records to advocating for democratic change at UCD. Despite being censured by the Medical Council over the Fr Michael Cleary scandal, Browne remained defiant. He is survived by his family, including seven children, and was predeceased by his second wife, June Levine, and his siblings.
Obituary: Jimmy Somers, trade unionist who successfully fought for better public-sector pay and contested elections for Labour Party
Jimmy Somers, a prominent trade unionist who played a significant role in improving public-sector pay and was involved in the Labour Party, passed away. He was instrumental in the negotiation of Partnership 2000, served as vice-president and then president of SIPTU, and was a key figure in various labor disputes and negotiations. Somers also contested elections for the Labour Party and held positions with the Labour Court, Labour Relations Commission, and other organizations. He is remembered as a dedicated family man, a mentor, and a leader in the labor movement.
Obituary: Thomas Kilroy, noted playwright, novelist and academic whose great imagination was matched by his talent
Thomas Kilroy, a renowned Irish playwright, novelist, and academic, passed away on December 7. Born in Callan, Co Kilkenny, Kilroy had a significant impact on Irish literature and theatre. He was involved with the Abbey Theatre and Field Day Theatre Company, and was a professor at University College Galway. His works include 'The Big Chapel', which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize, and plays like 'The Death and Resurrection of Mr Roche'. Kilroy's life and legacy were celebrated by President Higgins and others who recognized him as a pivotal figure in Irish arts.
Obituary: Máiréad Breslin Kelly, gifted linguist and tour guide who also worked for Women’s Aid for 20 years
Máiréad Breslin Kelly, a gifted linguist and tour guide who worked for Women’s Aid for 20 years, passed away on November 12. Born in Belfast and raised in Dublin, she was an only child who excelled in languages, earning a BA in French and Irish from UCD and a president’s medal for spoken French from the Sorbonne. She married artist John Kelly and had six daughters. Máiréad taught French at the Alliance Francaise in Dublin and later became a tour guide. She also volunteered and worked at Women’s Aid. Her father, Padraig Breslin, was a poet and translator with a complex history involving the Communist Party of Ireland and imprisonment in Russia. Máiréad translated her father's NKVD interrogation records into Irish, which were published in a book titled 'Ceistiúchán'. She is remembered by her daughters and friends.
Obituary: Liam Connellan, management expert who led Ibec forerunner during Ireland's EEC entry and economic improvement
Liam Connellan, a management expert who played a pivotal role in leading the Confederation of Irish Industry during Ireland's entry into the European Economic Community and its subsequent economic improvement, has passed away. Born in Longford and raised in Roscommon, Connellan's career spanned various influential positions, including director-general of the CII, chairperson of the National Roads Authority, and president of both the Royal Dublin Society and Engineers Ireland. He was instrumental in fostering relations between Irish and Northern Irish business communities and was recognized for his visionary leadership in infrastructure development. Connellan, who also contributed to the Irish American Partnership and the Peter McVerry Trust, is survived by his children and siblings, following the passing of his wife Marie.
Obituary: John Mullaney, Sligo draper who was a passionate supporter of the town’s Yeats International Summer School
John Mullaney, a Sligo draper and passionate supporter of the Yeats International Summer School, passed away peacefully at Sligo University Hospital on August 20. Born on April 25, 1932, he managed the Mullaney Brothers clothing store, which had a rich history including operating a travel agency and being the first business in Sligo to accept a credit card in 1950. Mullaney was known for his impeccable dress, sociable customer service, and extensive knowledge of Sligo's history. He was also active in the arts and had a love for classical music. His contributions to the Yeats Society Sligo were significant, and he is remembered fondly by his family, friends, and the community. His funeral saw public applause as the cortege passed by the Mullaney Brothers premises.
Obituary: Máirín Hughes, Ireland's Oldest Person, Passes Away
Máirín Hughes, Ireland's oldest person who experienced significant historical events including the Rising, Civil War, and two world wars, passed away at 109. Born in Belfast, she moved to Dublin and then Killarney as a child. Her father was a customs officer and her mother lived past 100. Hughes recalled events from her childhood, her education in chemistry and physics at University College Cork, and her career as a chemist and later a teacher. She married Frank Hughes, who passed away from leukemia. Hughes was known for her moderate lifestyle and involvement in Apostolic Work Ireland and breast cancer awareness initiatives. She passed away after a short illness and is survived by family and the Maryfield community.
Obituary: Professor John McGurk, historian, teacher and author beloved by generations of history students
Professor John McGurk, a historian, teacher, and author, passed away on August 9. Born in Enniskillen, he pursued higher education in London and Liverpool, later founding the Institute of Irish Studies at the University of Liverpool. His notable works include 'The Elizabethan Conquest of Ireland: the 1590s Crisis' and 'Sir Henry Docwra, 1564-1631: Derry’s second founder.' McGurk was a senior academic at Liverpool Hope University and a fellow of both Liverpool universities. He was also involved with the University of Ulster and the O’Neill Country Historical Society. Predeceased by his wife Barbara and son Matthew, he is survived by his sons Patrick and Timothy and several grandchildren. His funeral mass was held at St Mary’s Church Tourmakeady on August 16.
The power of quiet diplomacy in peace efforts in the north and Middle East
The article reflects on the role of quiet diplomacy in resolving conflicts, drawing parallels between the peace processes in Northern Ireland and the Middle East. It highlights the contributions of key figures such as Mo Mowlam, Jean Kennedy Smith, and Yitzhak Rabin, among others, and emphasizes the importance of informal, discreet negotiations in achieving peace. The author notes the current stability in Northern Ireland, in contrast to the ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestine, and expresses hope for behind-the-scenes efforts towards peace and stability.
Obituary: Brendan Daly, experienced former Fianna Fáil cabinet minister and poll-topping TD
Brendan Daly, a former Fianna Fáil cabinet minister and TD, passed away peacefully at the Galway Clinic. Born in Cooraclare, he was educated at the Christian Brothers School in Kilrush and began his political career in the 1973 general election. Daly served in various ministerial roles, including the Department of Labour, Forestry and Fisheries, Marine, Defence, and Social Welfare, and was known for his meticulous attention to constituency matters. He was also a member of the Seanad and was praised for his intelligence, wit, and dedication to public service. Daly is survived by his children, siblings, and grandchildren. His funeral mass is scheduled at St Senan’s Church, Coolaclare, with burial in Kilmacduane Cemetery.
Obituary: Paul Coghlan, former Fine Gael Senator who bridged party divide with his affable approach to politics
Paul Coghlan, a former Fine Gael Senator known for his affable approach to politics, passed away shortly before his 79th birthday. He was a committed politician who served in Seanad Éireann, focusing on business issues and maintaining a strong presence in Leinster House. Coghlan was well-regarded across political lines and was remembered for his ability to connect with people. He held various local positions, including mayor of Killarney and was involved in several community organizations. His funeral was attended by many political figures and representatives from different sectors, reflecting his wide influence and the respect he garnered.
Dramatic days ahead in southern politics
The Republic of Ireland may hold its general election in late autumn of 2024, with current polls showing Sinn Féin as the leading party. Despite their popularity, they are unlikely to secure enough seats for a single-party government. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has expressed he would resign rather than form a coalition with Sinn Féin, while Tánaiste Micheál Martin of Fianna Fáil has not ruled out continuing the current coalition. The Green Party is open to a coalition with Sinn Féin if environmental policies are prioritized. The war in Ukraine has brought the issue of Irish neutrality to the forefront, with President Michael D Higgins criticizing the government's drift towards NATO and advocating for a focus on Ireland's role at the United Nations.
Obituary: Conor O’Brien, former military man and Irish lord who was directly descended from Brian Boru
Conor O’Brien, a former military man and Irish lord with direct descent from Brian Boru, passed away shortly before his 80th birthday. Born in Surrey, England, he served in the British Army and later ran his own trading company in Hong Kong and Singapore. Upon his uncle's death in 1982, he became the 18th Baron Inchiquin and moved to the family estate in Co Clare, Ireland. He was known for his fair treatment of tenants during the Famine and held dual nationality. O’Brien transformed Thomond House into a guesthouse and was married to Helen O’Farrell, with whom he had two daughters. His funeral was held at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, followed by a private cremation.
John Hume and the principle of change by consent
Michael Viney, a columnist for The Irish Times, is remembered for his significant reporting in the 1960s, including a series on the decline of the Protestant community in southern Ireland and the treatment of young offenders. His work influenced John Hume, who later wrote about the position of Catholics in Northern Ireland, advocating for the solution of social and economic problems and criticizing traditional nationalist attitudes. Hume's writings laid the groundwork for his future political philosophy of change by consent, a key element of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement.
Obituary: Kieron Wood, author, barrister and former RTÉ legal affairs correspondent
Kieron Wood, an accomplished author, barrister, and former RTÉ legal affairs correspondent, passed away on February 26 after a long battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). He was known for his work in journalism, winning multiple awards, and for his books covering various topics, including the Kilkenny Incest Case and a rumored affair between Dwight D Eisenhower and his chauffeur. Wood was the first to represent a spouse in obtaining a High Court divorce in Ireland post-1995 referendum. His requiem mass was held at St Kevin’s Church, Dublin, and donations were directed to PSP Ireland in lieu of flowers.
Obituary: Michael O’Regan, a fearlessly honest, forthright and personable journalist and broadcaster best known for his coverage of the Kerry Babies case
Michael O’Regan, a respected journalist and broadcaster from Kerry, Ireland, passed away on February 18 after a long illness. Born in 1953, he began his career at The Kerryman and later joined The Irish Times, where he covered significant political figures and events. He was known for his coverage of the Kerry Babies Tribunal and his commitment to journalism, winning awards and respect from peers. O’Regan was also active in broadcasting, particularly with Radio Kerry. He is survived by his wife Elizabeth, daughters Deirdra and Alyson, and extended family. His funeral mass was held at the Holy Cross Church, Dundrum, followed by a cremation at Mount Jerome in Harold’s Cross.
Obituary: Niamh Bhreathnach, former Labour TD and education minister who abolished third-level fees and targeted supports at schools in disadvantaged areas
Niamh Bhreathnach, a former Labour TD and education minister known for abolishing third-level fees and initiating supports for schools in disadvantaged areas, passed away on February 6. Born in Dublin, she was involved in local politics before being elected to Dáil Éireann in 1992. As education minister, she introduced significant reforms including the 'Breaking the Cycle' programme and the Irish University Act of 1997. She lost her Dáil seat in 1997 but continued in local politics until 2009. Bhreathnach is survived by her husband, children, and siblings.
Obituary: Carrie Acheson, former Fianna Fáil TD who became known as the Voice of the Ploughing Championships
Carrie Acheson, known as the Voice of the Ploughing Championships, passed away peacefully on January 16. Born in Tipperary town, she worked for her family's company, Barlo Farm Machinery, and was a director before entering politics. Elected to South Tipperary County Council in 1974, she won a Dáil seat for Fianna Fáil in 1981 but lost it in 1982. She chaired the Irish Red Cross Society and played a central role at the National Ploughing Championships. Her sister Tras Honan also had a notable political career. Tributes described Acheson as charismatic, formidable, and positive. She is survived by her son, grandchildren, brother, and sister.
Obituary: Brian Looney, talented editor who transformed the Kerryman and Irish Examiner newspapers
Brian Looney, a transformative editor for The Kerryman and Irish Examiner, passed away on January 9. Educated at Presentation College, Cork, he began his career at the Limerick Echo, moved to the Irish Press, and then to Independent Newspapers. As editor of The Kerryman, he introduced new technology and won a Newspaper Design Award. Later, as editor of the Cork Examiner, he promoted computerization and expanded readership. After a brief stint with Fine Gael, he returned to the newspaper industry and worked as a media consultant. He is remembered for his mentorship of young journalists and his sense of fun.
Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael coalition would once have been unthinkable
A century ago, during the Irish Civil War, seven anti-treaty men were executed, becoming known as the Grey Abbey Martyrs. The conflict's legacy lived on in the rivalry between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, making their current coalition a significant shift in Irish politics. The recent peaceful transition of the office of taoiseach between the two parties, and Sinn Féin's standing ovation for the outgoing Fianna Fáil leader, exemplify the changing political landscape.
Obituary: Private Séan Rooney, soldier killed on peacekeeping duties, was 48th to die in Lebanon during 44 years of Irish service there
Private Séan Rooney, an Irish soldier, was killed in Lebanon, marking the 48th Irish military fatality in the country over 44 years. Rooney, who had a family history of military service, was engaged to Holly McConnellogue and was noted for his good humor and likability. The incident occurred in Al-Aqbiya, outside the UNIFIL area of operations, where his vehicle was surrounded by locals after becoming separated from a convoy. Rooney was shot in the head and died instantly, while Trooper Kearney was seriously injured. Investigations are underway by UNIFIL and Lebanese security officials. Hezbollah has denied involvement. Tributes and condolences have been expressed by Irish officials, including President Michael D. Higgins and Taoiseach Micheál Martin.
Obituary: John Kelly, academic and former professor of engineering at UCD who was a key figure in college life
John Kelly, a former professor of engineering at University College Dublin (UCD) and a key figure in college life, passed away after a short illness. He was instrumental in UCD's international collaborations, a supporter of the SDLP, and an advocate for students with disabilities through his work with Ahead. Kelly also contributed to the development of the UCD Engineering and Materials Science Centre and promoted gender balance in engineering. His book on James Joyce was published in 2021. He is survived by his wife Nora and their children.
Mood in Brussels cautiously positive on protocol
The author, Deaglán de Bréadún, reports a cautiously positive mood in Brussels regarding the Northern Ireland protocol, with potential for compromise on customs procedures. The Democratic Unionist Party's abstentionism at Stormont is likened to Sinn Féin's historical approach. MEP Bernd Lange expresses the EU's flexibility in finding practical solutions without undermining the internal market. Irish MEPs discuss their work, with Fine Gael's Frances Fitzgerald recounting a meeting with a Ukrainian former prisoner, and Green MEP Grace O’Sullivan planning a mission to Palestine. Fianna Fáil's Barry Andrews addresses potential coalition with Sinn Féin, emphasizing differences in policy and culture.
Sinn Féin torch passing to a new generation
Sinn Féin is anticipated to gain the most seats in the Republic of Ireland's next general election, according to current polls. The party's recent ard fheis in Dublin focused on younger delegates, signaling a generational shift. Mary Lou McDonald emphasized the goal of a united Ireland through peaceful means and the establishment of a Citizens' Assembly on Irish unity. Despite a slight drop in Sinn Féin's support, the current coalition parties have not gained, and Sinn Féin may consider coalitions with smaller parties or even Fianna Fáil to secure a majority.
Time to modify the rules on power-sharing
Deaglán de Bréadún argues for a modification of the power-sharing rules in Northern Ireland, suggesting that if the largest party on either side of the nationalist/unionist divide is unwilling to nominate a first or deputy first minister, the right should pass to the next biggest party. He proposes changing the titles to Joint First Minister and references similar diarchic systems in San Marino and Andorra. The article reflects on the historical cooperation between Ian Paisley and Martin McGuinness and suggests that the current political impasse could be resolved with a new approach to leadership in the assembly.
Obituary: Dr Mirette Hanley Corboy, first and only female president of the Construction Industry Federation and pioneer for equality and university education
Dr Mirette Hanley Corboy, a pioneering figure in the Irish construction industry and a champion for equality and education, passed away peacefully at University Hospital Limerick. Born in Limerick city, she was educated in Ireland and France, co-founded Portland Estates (Limerick), and became the first and only female president of the Construction Industry Federation. She played a significant role in the development of the University of Limerick, where she was a governor and helped establish self-financing student residences. Her contributions were recognized with an honorary doctorate and various board appointments. Mirette is survived by her family and remembered for her charm, ability, and dedication to community service.
×
Deaglan's
confirmed information
✓
Financial institution
Verified Jan 2015
✓
Phone number
Verified Nov 2023
✓
Joined
Dec 2014