Esmond Birnie

4817: LISTEN¦ What can or should government do to support people and businesses struggling as a result of coronavirus? Could a universal basic income help keep families afloat? Frank spoke to senior economist Dr Esmond Birnie

4768: LISTEN¦ Northern Ireland public transport system is in danger of 'imminent and serious collapse' unless millions more in funding can be found. Will prices need to rise or services be cut? Frank spoke to economist Dr Esmond Birnie, UUP MLA Roy Beggs and took calls from listeners

4765: LISTEN¦ Will new UK immigration rules, with salary and skills requirements, help or hinder the NI economy? Frank spoke to Colin Neill from Hospitality Ulster and Dr Esmond Birnie senior economist at Ulster University

4684: LISTEN¦ A top economist has warned it may cost £5bn to fill the shortfall in spending on areas like infrastructure and health. Could differences over funding see the first cracks emerge in the Executive's 'New Approach'?. Frank spoke to Dr Esmond Birnie and Allison Morris

4626: LISTEN¦ The local parties' manifestos contain plenty of spending commitments, but do the sums add up? Frank spoke to senior economist Dr Esmond Birnie

4574: LISTEN¦ Will the PM's Brexit deal make NI poorer or will it give us the best of both worlds, with access to both the UK and EU single market? Frank talks to business expert @Jamie_Delargy and economist Esmond Birnie

4566: LISTEN¦ Noises from Brussels suggest a Brexit deal may be close, but the DUP insists 'gaps' remain and further work is needed. Can a deal be reached and quickly? Frank speaks to @TKbytesback, @BenLowry2, economist Esmond Birnie and @Jamie_Delargy

4563: LISTEN¦ As we approach 1000 days without Stormont, we look at the cost for people in NI. Frank speaks to @UlsterUni senior economist Dr Esmond Birnie and @iamdylanquinn from campaign group We Deserve Better