1997

Pop Goes Northern Ireland blends news footage, archive and the musical hits of the time to provide an enthralling and entertaining potted history of Northern Ireland dealing with our difficult past in a way that is entertaining, informative, fresh and accessible to all.

This episode goes back to 1997, a year which begins with the IRA still waging a campaign of violence. The general election brings Labour's Tony Blair to power, and new secretary of state Mo Mowlam forces the Drumcree Orange march down the disputed Garvaghy Road, causing serious disturbances. A few days later the IRA declare a ceasefire and Sinn Fein are admitted to political talks, leading the DUP to walk out in protest.