The evidence points to the fact that stringent building controls are needed to protect the interests of citizens, but the current controls appear to be more about optics than anything else more substantial, and a review of these is unlikely to change anything, writes Michael Clifford

Alan Shatter is gone from frontline politics, but he appears determined not to be forgotten, writes Michael Clifford

LEO Varadkar is ashamed, and well he might be. On Thursday, following the publication of a report into the deaths of five babies at Portlaoise hospital, the health minister proclaimed himself ashamed of the treatment of patients there.

Fear is a powerful emotion...but another feature of this society is its compassion writes Michael Clifford

Michael Clifford examines some of the issues surrounding the O’Higgins Inquiry into claims of garda malpractice as its cental figure, the whistleblower Sgt Maurice McCabe, undertakes a judicial review to reduce the financial burden on him.

FATE DEALT Bernadette Forde savage blows, but the State also ensured that her final days and hours were lacking peace of mind, writes Michael Clifford. 

SITESERV can be read as the story of modern Ireland in five easy pieces, writes Michael Clifford

Dermot Gleeson came before the banking inquiry not to make excuses but to provide explanations.

There are some hints that the trial of Gail O’Rorke differs from the usual criminal proceedings to be found in the court system.

The recent move by the aunt and brother of the late minister for finance Brian Lenihan to represent his views would make a joke of the banking inquiry, writes Michael Clifford