THE LAST WORD By Pat Coughlan Pedestrianisation, the act of converting streets for the exclusive use of pedestrians, is a hot topic in urban planning. It promises cleaner air, safer streets, and a boost for local businesses. But, like a double-edged sword, it can also disrupt traffic and accessibility. So, is it a blessing or …

BY JOHN ELLIS, FINANCIAL ADVISOR Almost half a million drivers across the country are paying hundreds – and in some cases more than a €1,000 – more than they need to on car insurance cover because they have penalty points on their licences. According to a recent cost comparison analysis by motor insurance experts at …

AS I SEE IT BY MARIANNE HERON The connection between local Chinese take-aways, the fabled Silk Road which brought produce from the East to Europe for centuries and the challenges facing the State to provide for a population which has ballooned by more than 10% in the last seven years may not be obvious. But …

BY CLAIR WHITTY Every year I talk about Vitamin D. It is one of the most important vitamins for maintaining various aspects of our health. Vitamin D is required to absorb calcium, an important mineral for bone structure and strength. It helps to prevent rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults. It became a household …

THE FACT OF THE MATTER BY PAUL HOPKINS The 700-page Scoping report on historical sexual abuse at religious schools in Ireland is so candid in its shock and horror that some chapters begin with a content warning. These chapters are the harrowing accounts from those who endured and survived extreme sexual violence and abuse. “Reading …