ONE of the most unnerving things about the terrible attacks on New York in September 2001 was the creation of an atmosphere that almost equated American patriotism with aggression towards those who would dare to disagree with America.

THE old advice about what to do when you find yourself in a hole — stop digging — should resonate loudly with both sides in the humiliating and embarrassing dispute that has divided the GAA in Cork.

THOUGH the dispute between the GAA’s county board in Cork and the county’s hurlers and footballers has entered unchartered and dangerous waters, it is wrong to imagine that the GAA is our only sports organisation facing significant challenges.

AS PREDICTIONS go it’s fairly stark, especially when you consider all the millions spent on establishing the science and, later, spreading the message.

LAST November Taoiseach Bertie Ahern expressed his dissatisfaction with the legal profession’s self-regulation. The system does not work and a new one is necessary, he admitted to the Dáil.

IT SEEMS that we may be killing birds with kindness. By feeding winter residents we may, unintentionally, be stacking the odds against migratory species.

THE devastating impact of alcohol abuse on our society is as well documented as it is tragic. What was once granted a grudging tolerance is becoming a huge social and health issue.

ONCE upon a time it would have been like sending coals to Newcastle but as a handy ready reckoner of social change goes it’s about as good as you’ll get.

ONE of the really rewarding things about being successful is you can give your children things and opportunities you may not have enjoyed yourself.

THESE past few days have been especially tragic because of the number — at least nine — of people who have died on our roads.