Use BBC.com or the new BBC App to listen to BBC podcasts, Radio 4 and the World Service outside the UK.

Find out how to listen to other BBC stations

Episode details

Radio Ulster,21 May 2022,28 mins,

SeriesThe Handler – A Matter of Life and Death

Episode 1: The First Good Source

Assume Nothing
Contains strong language and some violent scenes.

Available for over a year

Dramatised memoir of a Special Branch officer operating at the outset of the Northern Ireland Troubles. James (not his real name) runs a network of informers and sources operating along the border area of South Down and South Armagh during the worst years of violence. For both handler and source, it’s a matter of life and death. Some names, dates and details have been changed to protect the living. Episode 1: The First Good Source James sees an opportunity when a young IRA volunteer is arrested on a burglary charge. Working together, they are soon disrupting IRA activity – but it’s a high stakes game, and the informer’s life is soon in grave danger. Cast: James – Jonathan Harden Interviewer – Michael Patrick Source – Marty Maguire Military Intelligence Officer – Paul Mallon Army Radio Voice – Marty Maguire A BBC Northern Ireland Production.

Programme Website
More episodes