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The slowdown in economic growth
As most forecasters agree, this year is likely to be the last in which a set of exceptional factors conspire to produce a rate of economic growth that remains, by most standards, extraordinary. Yesterday's exchequer returns were also the last before polling day on May 24th. As such they demonstrate how important it will be for growth in the economy and, by extension, in tax revenues to reach projected targets if the many promises being made as part of the election campaign have any chance of being kept. p
Environment strategy
With a general election campaign in full spate, there could not have been a better time for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to publish its long-term strategy for the protection of Irish society and the economy. The wellbeing of society relies on the quality of the environment in which people work and live. And, as EPA director general Mary Kelly insisted, protected water resources, soil and biodiversity, along with clean air, are the fundamental rights of all Irish citizens. p
Opinion
Previous D case may prove relevant to current abortion case
The kernel of the D case, which is before the High Court today, is not abortion but the powers the HSE may exercise over a minor in its care, writes Tom O'Malley pIreland not a good example for others
Scotland is inching towards independence and looking to Ireland for inspiration. But not for long, predicts Michael O'Sullivan pDIY stamp duty - you know it makes sense
Newton's Optic There are plenty of creative ways to get your landlord to redecorate a rented house, writes Newton Emerson pBurying our heads in the sand
Almost exactly five years ago Deirdre de Barra publicly revealed the tragic personal circumstances which had afflicted herself and her family. It was an act of great bravery and was widely credited as a turning point in this country's tortured dealings with the issue of abortion. p
An Irishman's Diary
Where California leads, the rest of the world often follows eventually. So at the risk of giving Michael McDowell ideas in the middle of an election campaign, I thought I'd share with you some of the Golden State's newest thinking in the area of corrective justice, courtesy of a recent feature in the New York Times. p
