Pirate Predator: 03 - Mutiny

May 25, 2026 · 33 min

About this episode

The episode explores the dark history behind Radio Dublin, Ireland's first 24-hour station, and the criminal activities of its controller Eamon Cooke.

In 1978, Radio Dublin made history as Ireland's first 24-hour station. But behind the scenes, a darker story was unfolding. Eamon Cooke, already a convicted criminal, was now in control of the pirate station Radio Dublin and began using his newfound influence to try to insulate himself from suspicion. If you've been affected by any issues raised in this episode, please visit rte.ie/helplines Credits: 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. Legal advice from Trish Whelan and Deirdre Kelly. 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.

People in this episode

Host: Peter Mulryan

Topics covered

pirate radio
criminal influence
Irish history
media ethics
broadcasting
mutiny

Keywords

Radio Dublin
Eamon Cooke
pirate radio
1978
Irish media
mutiny
broadcasting history

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Radio Dublin