THE focus on rural Ireland over recent weeks related to blood sports.

THE mid-point of the year sees the publication of the half-year exchequer returns and CSO data on the economy. This will form the backdrop to the formation of December’s budget.

I USED to be an inveterate funeral goer – several per week. I hadn’t been to one for the past two years until the unexpected death of newspaper man and former schoolmate, Alan Ruddock.

THE two Brians need to wake up fast. Recent news emerging about Anglo Irish Bank is analogous to the BP oil well in the Gulf of Mexico.

PROFESSOR Brendan Drumm epitomised the worst aspects of public administration late last week.

DID you happen to see the Heineken Cup final (albeit on Sky)? There was a defining moment in the second half.

HAVE you encountered the latest social phenomenon? The Celtic Cubs are voting with their feet. They’ve heard all the propaganda about recovery and positivity. Their real choice is Canada, Australia or Britain. Emigration parties are now commonplace as well wishers offer their best for a bright new future.

GETTING up at 3.50am to present the early Newstalk radio show means my body clock doesn’t understand bank holiday weekends.

DURING our last general election in 2007, my occupation was bookmaking. Our firm pioneered betting markets for every candidate and constituency.

THE state of our public finances has taken on a severe international dimension in the past week. Two events have brought into sharp focus the perilous path Ireland treads.