THE economic downturn is forcing small businesses and scientists to join forces like never before and search for the products of the future.

FOR the fourth year in a row, freedom in terms of political rights and civil liberties have decreased in the world, according to the international organisation, Freedom House.

AN investigation into unfair retail services may have uncovered why Ireland’s food prices are the second highest in the EU.

NATIONAL governments could tap part of the EU’s bailout fund to recapitalise banks following the stress tests if they fail to raise the money on the markets, Commission sources have suggested.

IRELAND is showing no sign of shedding its Rip-Off Republic tag as figures reveal the cost of filling a shopping basket is almost 30% higher than the EU average.

THE advantage Ireland has in attracting foreign companies as a result of its low corporation tax rates may have a limited time to run, a report on taxation in the EU has warned.

SHOCK bills as a result of downloading on your smart phone or laptop when abroad should end today when telecoms companies must warn you as soon as you near €50 worth.

FOREIGN intelligence services spying on the European Parliament?

GROUPS all over the world, including in Dublin, took advantage of the 65th birthday of Aung San Su Kyi to pressurise jailers in her native Burma to release her, and hold genuinely democratic elections later this year.

THE food industry has spent €1 billion lobbying politicians to block an easy-to-understand labelling system, according to an expert group.