An Bord Pleanála’s final inquiry whitewashes malpractice allegations, rewriting history and raising troubling questions about accountability

Whether America and all it purports to represent can outlive this individual will be the story of the coming years

The President's popularity is unquestionable but his successor should not use the office to openly criticise policy

With over €193,000 owed by the former teacher in fines, one must ask if there is any point in sending Enoch Burke back to prison and perceived martyrdom

All too often western democracies like ours hold noses and look away from severe human rights abuses in pursuit of our own economic interests. We must not do this when it comes to the war in Gaza, writes Mick Clifford

Influence of independents will be seen in what will not get done — rather than creating positive change

Despite violence and unemployment dominating public life, there is an alluring sheen to 1985, writes Mick Clifford

There were more outstanding books in 2024 that merit a mention

This article is part of our Best of 2024 collection. It was originally published in January. Find more stories like this .

The magic these children deserve is to have a place they can call home from which they can develop and grow and be better prepared to tackle the turbulent straits that life will inevitably throw up, writes Mick Clifford