DOWNGRADING of France as a triple A credit rated state can usher in a new phase in the eurozone crisis.

DURING January, Enda Kenny is to call in all ministers on a bilateral basis to assess their report cards and drive forward government priorities.

SINCE 1764 pundits attempt to accurately predict Ireland’s events of each New Year. Best known of these is Old Moore’s Almanac, established by Theophilus Moore, a clerical academic from Milltown, Dublin.

CONSULTANTS, specialising in crisis public relations, tell you most media cycles don’t endure beyond nine days. From breaking of stories to revelations and reactions from every angle, they are usually wrapped up in three days.

During the Noughties Government buildings entertained interlopers.

WHICH part of this deal did they think might appeal to us?

ON the eve of an EU summit, where a draft new treaty emerges, expect a return of the “no alternative” brigade.

POLITICIANS love small businesses.

POLITICIANS love small businesses. They appoint a token junior minister (John Perry), with special responsibility for their needs.

“WE require a head — yours or Harry’s”.