Stormont, on what might have been an auspicious occasion had the DUP nominated a first minister, witnessed, instead, a reminder of its violent past.

Precisely how ridiculous and in need of serious reform our libel laws are was illustrated graphically by the awarding of €750,000 to Denis O’Brien against the Mirror Newspaper Group.

IN reaction to the continuing Irish Examiner exposé of Ireland’s epidemic of domestic violence, the Government has announced a national media campaign to raise awareness of, and help change attitudes to, a hidden scandal that is mirrored in the battered faces of women and the terrified eyes of children.

THE long-awaited judgment of the High Court in the battle between Ireland’s health insurance operators means BUPA will have to compensate VHI because of its older membership base.

The series on domestic violence beginning in today’s Irish Examiner presents a harrowing picture of violence, frustration, incompetence, indifference and appalling political neglect.

TWO faces of Ireland were glimpsed yesterday in contrasting statements from opposite ends of the economic spectrum.

IN a world dominated by corporate wealth, people power is a scarce commodity.

WITH aggravated burglary on the rise in Ireland, the vexed question perplexing home-owners up and down the country is whether force can be used in self-defence against intruders — and what constitutes “reasonable” force.

FROM the classroom to the workplace, bullying and racism can have traumatic repercussions on the intended victim.

COMPOUNDING growing uncertainty as to the timing of the proposed referendum on children’s rights, Minister Brian Lenihan, who has responsibility for steering this issue through the political minefield, yesterday balked at giving any guarantee it would be held before next year’s general election.