A dramatized 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 3: Dangerous Liaisons

Frustrated by the lack of cooperation between governments north and south, James decides to take matters into his own hands and makes a dangerous trip across the border. Meanwhile, he develops a friendship with Captain Robert Nairac and is soon liasing with the SAS – but this leads to serious friction between the two jurisdictions when Gardaí grow suspicious of an intelligence operation.

Cast:

James – Jonathan Harden Interviewer – Michael Patrick Garda Special Branch officer – Faolan Morgan Captain Robert Nairac – Patrick Fitzsymons Source – Marty Maguire Wife – Megan Armitage

A BBC Northern Ireland Production.