The summer weather has appeared. The town of Killarney looks beloved, with its multi-coloured window boxes and hanging baskets, proudly displayed against a background of freshly painted private houses, shops, restaurants, hotels, pubs and offices.

TAOISEACH Brian Cowen was hardly granted a moment to savour last weekend’s Lisbon victory before he was reminded, as if he needed reminding, that he faces far greater challenges ahead. He is not alone, we all do.