Hands off nature — vital to defend the laws protecting nature and people

Here's how to make your voice count and state your opposition to the proposed weakening of environmental laws across Europe — the European Commission has launched a consultation about the “simplification of administrative burdens in environmental legislation” which runs until September 10

Reflections on the River Suir of the three-arch humpback Knocklofty Bridge, near Clonmel. The limestone bridge dates to approximately 1770 AD and is attributed to Cork-born architect Thomas Ivory. Pictures: Larry Cummins

In 1970, Neill Young first sang "Look at Mother Nature on the run, in the 1970s" in the song After the Gold Rush. He continues to sing this iconic song in his concerts across the world, though now amended to "Look at Mother Nature on the run, in the 21st century”.

It’s a line that perfectly captures how we look on, as crazy acts of destruction continue against the natural world, with wild creatures receding as their habitats disappear.