Stubbornness is a requisite attribute in anybody who achieves big things. Whether it be in politics, sport, business, the arts, or service to any ideals, the man or woman who refuses to yield, when common sense dictates otherwise, is imbued with a drive to succeed, often against the odds.

A minister for rural affairs is needed — but only if they are willing to face up to responsibilities far beyond the next election, writes Michael Clifford

Time is now the enemy as policy issues need to be decided for government, writes Michael Clifford

Why would law makers discommode influential and supportive friends? asks Michael Clifford

For a brief period yesterday the real world intruded on the 32nd Dáil, writes Michael Clifford