I have a memory of 1940, at the age of nine, in my hometown of Westport, going up James’ Street. Someone shouted "the Germans have landed in Achill, they will be here tomorrow." I felt stunned: the future in ruins, houses empty, a home no longer a home.

Desmond Fisher, a respected commentator on religious matters and a journalist who worked in both the print and broadcast sectors, has died aged 94.

THE appointment of a national press ombudsman has been welcomed by the newspaper industry.