Documentary on One Podcast

Having spent much of his youth and early adult life in some serious tangles with the law, all of a sudden, Eamon Cooke turns the other cheek. It’s as if he was trying to build a shield of protection around himself while at the same time committing the most serious crimes against children. And then he sets his eyes on an even better cover - taking over the pirate station, Radio Dublin.If you've been affected by any issues raised in this episode, please visit rte.ie/helplinesCredits: Pirate Predator is hosted by Peter Mulryan. The series is written, recorded and produced by Peter Mulryan, Nicoline Greer, Shauna McGreevy and Liam O'Brien. Original music soundtrack is composed and performed by Alma Kelliher with Ste Carolan on guitars. Sound design is by Damian Chennells. Audio Product Support is by Nigel Wheatley and Áine McManus. Design and creatives by Sorcha Kelly and Mark Hennessy. Marketing by Christopher Hayes, Maria Buckley and Hilary O'Callaghan. Promos by Liz Ivory. Publicity by Kate Smyth. Additional online editorial content by Anna Joyce.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Long before he ruled the airwaves of Dublin’s pirate radio scene, Eamon Cooke was a man defined by a different kind of interference. His youth wasn't just rebellious; it was at times violent, volatile and unpredictable. These were the first glimpses into someone who was fast growing up into becoming a very dangerous man.If you've been affected by any issues raised in this episode, please visit rte.ie/helplinesCredits: Pirate Predator is hosted by Peter Mulryan. The series is written, recorded and produced by Peter Mulryan, Nicoline Greer, Shauna McGreevy and Liam O'Brien. Original music soundtrack is composed and performed by Alma Kelliher with Ste Carolan on guitars. Sound design is by Damian Chennells. Audio Product Support is by Nigel Wheatley and Áine McManus. Design and creatives by Sorcha Kelly and Mark Hennessy. Marketing by Christopher Hayes, Maria Buckley and Hilary O'Callaghan. Promos by Liz Ivory. Publicity by Kate Smyth. Additional online editorial content by Anna Joyce.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Publishing weekly from May 12th 2026, Pirate Predator is a new series from RTÉ telling the definitive story of Eamon Cooke, a man of many faces who, on one hand, became a cult like figure - filling a void for disillusioned youth through Radio Dublin in the 1970s and 1980s - while on the other became one of Ireland's most prolific child sexual abusers.If you have any information about Eamon Cooke please contact us, in confidence, at [email protected] Predator is hosted by Peter Mulryan. The series is written, recorded and produced by Peter Mulryan, Nicoline Greer, Shauna McGreevy and Liam O'Brien. Original music soundtrack is composed and performed by Alma Kelliher with Ste Carolan on guitars. Sound design is by Damian Chennells. Audio Product Support is by Nigel Wheatley and Áine McManus. Design and creatives by Sorcha Kelly and Mark Hennessy. Marketing by Christopher Hayes, Maria Buckley and Hilary O'Callaghan. Promos by Liz Ivory. Publicity by Kate Smyth. Additional online editorial content by Anna Joyce. Previous RTÉ Documentary On One series include Stolen Sister, Where is Jón?, The Real Carrie Jade, Runaway Joe, Finding Samantha, First Consignment, GunPlot, Tiger Roll and The Nobody Zone. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Veterans of the 15th International Brigade who fought for The Republic in the Spanish Civil War between 1936 and 1938 reassemble in Barcelona 50 years following their final march through the city. Comprising of volunteers from all over the world, they recount their experiences, remember lost comrades, and reflect on the trauma of war. (1989)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The experiences of Irish immigrants living and working in London are dramatised in this documentary. Arriving in London with nothing but the clothes on their back, sleeping rough in Victoria Station, wandering the streets as they struggle to get work, robbing to feed themselves, and drinking their sorrows away. (1988)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the shadow of the multi-million Custom House Dock's scheme, the people of Sheriff Street wonder if this development will provide much-needed employment to the area, which has fallen into serious decline through the closure of local factories, but many locals are sceptical about the promises for a brighter future. (1988)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The miracle of Fatima began in May 1917 when three children tending their sheep claimed to have been visited by the Virgin Mary. She reappeared to them over the next 6 months, her final visit became known as The Miracle of the Sun. 70yrs on this documentary looks at the Cult of Our Lady of Fatima and the people who make this pilgrimage each year?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Irish tenor and actor, Colm Wilkinson, best known for originating the role of Jean Valjean in Les Misérables in the West End and Broadway talks about his life in musical theatre and preparing to leave this iconic character behind as he moves on to new productions. (1987)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mary Leadbeater's letters tell the stories of real people from the village of Ballitore at the beginning of the 19th Century. Giving us an insight into the life of a remarkable woman, who wrote constantly about the people she met and the events that were unfolding at this time, including witnessing first-hand the horrors of the 1798 rebellion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Contemplative monks from the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of England speak about life behind the walls of the monastery and challenge common misconceptions about their vocation. What are the mysteries behind this life a prayer, and what is the point of the contemplative life? (1966)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andy O'Mahony joins Dr. A. L. Rowse for afternoon tea at the Athenaeum in London on November 14th 1985. The many topics up for discussion include the left-wing politics of the Oxford scene in the 1920s and 30s, Rowse's admiration for Margaret Thatcher and his modernisation of Shakespeare's plays. (1986)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ireland is the perfect place to sail around, the course retains a magic all of its own for most sailors. However, when the ingredients include a modern ocean racing catamaran, extreme weather from gale to calm, and a diverse crew attempting to break the all-time around Ireland record - the outcome is captivating. Will they succeed? (1986)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A journey through the boroughs of London city meeting Irish people who left their home to seek fortune in this bright and fast-moving metropolitan. London offers many young Irish a life of opportunity and adventure. But, at this time of year, the city can be a lonely place for those who cannot make it back home for Christmas. (1985)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mulligan was an Irish record company in the 70s and 80s with a catalogue ranging from traditional to contemporary. However, it was far from a typical 9 to 5 office. This collective had an idealistic approach and was perhaps ahead of it's timeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A profile of the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies which was established in 1940 by the then Taoiseach, Éamon de Valera. We look at how DIAS became a world leader in advanced research and Celtic Studies. (1985)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ballroom dancing enjoyed a revival during the 1980s in dancehalls all over the country, especially in the west. People flocked to their local community halls to listen to music which brought back memories of youth and past romances. Might they find new love on the dancefloor?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For over four decades, TEAM Educational Theatre Company was one of Ireland's longest established theatres in Ireland. It earned national acclaim working within the primary and post-primary system, and on it's tenth anniversary we hear from students who have been part of this programme from Dublin to Donegal. (1985)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This 1985 documentary provides an insight into the former East German state, hearing from families and their opinions on a wide range of topics from housing and transport needs to holidays, education, entertainment and religion. The programme was first broadcast in May 1985, compiled and presented by Brendan O’Heithir and produced by Micheal HolmesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a history of Belfast, from its beginnings as a river-crossing, through its centuries of radical politics and commercial enterprise to the nightmare of the Troubles. Based on the book "“Belfast – An Illustrated History” by Jonathan Bardon (1983).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ireland has a long tradition of fostering in Ireland. Families have always taken care of the young and vulnerable but many opt to foster children for long periods of time. An insight into fostering, social work and children in foster care in 1982See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kidnapping has had a devastating effect on families in Ireland for decades. This documentary looks at cases of men and women in Northern Ireland and in the South, who have gone missing. Often the mystery remains unsolved and families have to deal with the aftermath. (First Broadcast 1982)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This documentary on the young De Valera and his limerick background is based on Donnagha O’Dulaing’s series ’A Boy from Bruree’. Presenter Donncha O’Dulaing speaks about how the recording came to be. From his early childhood through to primary school and secondary school, Dev talks fondly of these times in Bruree County Limerick.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three wishes in the life of John Bradburne. A mystic, pilgrim, and poet he joined the war in 1939 looking for adventure but instead, he found religion. He converted to Catholicism and began his pilgrim across the world. His last journey was to a leper colony in Zimbabwe where he fell victim to its civil war. Did he get his last wish? (1981)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our Documentary archive from 1981 looks at the EEC's Economic and Social Committee, the organisation known before the European Union was formed. We hear from diplomats and politicians in Europe about the structure and issues of such an organisation, as Ireland was a relatively new member and many felt it could do more for Ireland at home. (1981)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Take a step back to the 1950's and ramble through the narrow streets of Wexford town where its rich and vibrant history can be stumbled upon at every turn. Over the centuries, the people of this medieval town have borne witness to some of the worst massacres in Irish history, famous rebellions, and foreign invasions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Established by the British Government in 1831, Irish National Schools were originally multi-denominational. The schools were controlled by a State body and the National Board of Education (mixed religions). Featuring voices, text books, legislation and religion, we explore the founding of the national school system in Ireland (1981)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Fastnet biennial race challenges the most experienced sailors as the unpredictable weather means it is one of the most dangerous races in the world. The 1981 race has an air of trepidation as the last time it took place, in 1979, 15 sailors died in what became known as one of the biggest ocean disasters in history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are the chances of striking gold in your own backyard? What if your discovery turns out to be priceless? In 1979, Michael Webb and his son, also named Michael, unearthed a treasure hoard on an ancient monastic site in Tipperary that included the Derrynaflan Chalice. Who is entitled to this priceless find, the state or the person who found it?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bedridden following a serious accident on the Canadian railroads, playwright, George Shiels, was inspired by Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Paralysed and back in his native Ballymoney, he started writing short stories and plays. His work caught the attention of The Abbey where he later became their leading comic writer.(1981)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vintage cars of all shapes and sizes travelling at a speed of 10mph splutter and chug their way along the streets of London. Cheering crowds wave their flags while sipping on hot cups of tea. This is the longest-running motor event in the world and the largest gathering of veteran cars. Can the old-timers make the journey from London to Brighton?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three Irish explorers set off on a 6-month expedition to The Arctic. How do they prepare physically and mentally, and what do they need to do to keep frostbite at bay? What links exist between The Arctic and Ireland? ( 1981 )See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pádraig Ó Caoimh is regarded as one of the most influential fiddle players of all time and the greatest in the Sliabh Luachra style. Born in 1887 in Gleantán, he was the eldest of 8 children from a musical family. A music master, he passed his skills to many pupils and his influence on traditional music can be heard everywhere today. (1980)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The art and science of Public Relations is explored. In Ireland, in 1980, there were 150 full time PR practitioners and it was a rapidly expanding industry at the time. The myth of a gin swilling, cigar smoking PR man who parries tricky questions at press conferences, is debunked. It is more than throwing lavish parties and working a room...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Blue Stack Mountains also known as na Cruacha Gorma are the major mountain range in the south of county Donegal. There is a particular history to this area of traditional music, crafts and Irish language. Pat Ward and Joe Gibbons are just two of the locals who speak in this documentary about the changes they've seen in their community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"McCarthyism", as defined by Senator McCarthy, means calling a man a Communist who is later proven to be one. The man, Joseph McCarthy, and the phenomenon, McCarthyism, were two essentially distinct entities. What motivated the man behind the term? (Part 2)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Senator Joseph McCarthy became synonymous with anti-communist persecution and paranoia in the United States in the 1950’s.This first of two documentaries explains the rise in power of the senator from Wisconsin. McCarthyism has since been defined as “the practice of making accusations of subversion or treason without proper regard for evidence”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Award Winning Seán O’Casey was one of Irish literature’s greats. Born in Dublin in 1880, this documentary takes a tour of the Northside of the city, tracing his life. With contributions from family, friends and neighbours, this is an exploration of his work, his love of the Irish language, and his move to the U.K. (First Broadcast 1980)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hugh Lane amassed a collection of pictures with his brilliant eye for art. A man whose life was surrounded by the sort of controversy which was only equalled by his untimely death onboard the Lusitania in 1915. The fate of 39 paintings has been a bone of contention between British and Irish governments that still remains unsolved. (1980)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1980, Broadcaster Marian Finucane traveled to Copenhagen for the second United Nations World Conference on Women. Delegates assesed the progress in women's rights and equality and what was needed in areas of family life. From family size and abortion laws to education in the area of family planning and domestic violence. (1980)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Back in the days when air fares were unattainable high. America literally seemed like a million miles away and so in 1959, Norris Davidson headed off on a journey of a lifetime. An adventure to Boston and back in just three days. (1959)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is thought that cidermaking in Ireland stretches back 2000 years, the religious orders were instrumental in its early production. In the 19th century, cidermaking became a business of some importance, although the industry suffered a decline following the two world wars. In 1949, the cider factory in Clonmel shared its brewing secrets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two of the most recognizable figures in the arts in twentieth-century Ireland - Hilton Edwards and Micheál MacLiammóir, cofounded The Gate theatre. Partners in life and in business, they had an ambitious and revolutionary approach to the theatre.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A day on the beat with Irish American detectives from the NYPD Homicide Squad who police the streets of Harlem. By the late 1970s, violent crime was a daily part of life in New York City, and the police had to deal with gruesome murder scenes and criminals who were armed and dangerous. (1978)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gaelic Park is the home of hurling and football in New York City, but for many Irish immigrants arriving in America, it is much more than a sports club. It was a place to meet old friends, sing songs, have a few drinks, and reminisce about life back home. ( 1978)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The island of Arranmore is one of the largest inhabited islands off the coast of Donegal. The winters are long and the wild ocean cuts the islanders off from the mainland. Community is vital to the island's survival; local people meet to sing songs, tell stories, watch television and play bingo. But is this enough for the younger generation?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the age of 38 Thomas MacDonagh was executed for his part in the 1916 Rising. This documentary explores his role in shaping Modern Ireland through his literary works and political activism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An exploration of the art scene in Ireland, particularly in Dublin. Contributors speak of the elitist image of the commercial gallery, the lifestyle and pressures of an artist and the public's engagement with art.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Originally from Manchester, Gill Gairdner and Rod Alston, moved to Eden in Leitrim with an idea to make a garden that is both productive and beautiful, and a farm that is capable of supporting those living there. Their exceptional horticulturist skills, plus a steely determination, resulted in them pioneering organic farming in Ireland. (1977)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alyn Walsh has his dream job. He is a squirrel catcher. Dick Warner explores the unusual world of squirrel trapping with Alyn and finds out what drives him to do this job in such an isolated forest environment. Trapping squirrels is no easy task and though Alyn loves birds, wildlife and squirrels - he says squirrels don't make good pets! (1977)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who is the man Myles na gCopaleen? Brian O'Nolan was regarded as a major figure in twentieth century Irish literature. His novelswere written under the pen name Flann O'Brien, whilst his satirical columns were written under Myles na gCopaleen. Various friends and colleagues remember different aspects of the man. Produced by John Skehan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.