It is unprecedented — but entirely fitting — that two individuals who triggered the resignations of a minister for justice and a Garda commissioner, while forcing a Taoiseach to change his tune, should be honoured among the recipients of the People of the Year awards. But that is precisely what happened at the weekend, bringing to a close, for now, a chapter of the saga surrounding garda whistleblowers Maurice McCabe and John Wilson who have exposed wholesale corruption within the gardaí.

SOME people just put others to shame, their positive attitude towards dealing with — what for others would be an unthinkable burden — provides inspiration to all but the most mean-spirited. Mark Pollock is one such person.

MICK O’CONNELL got a massive boost in his bid to come to grips with the serious injury sustained while playing rugby when thousands turned out for a charity walk/fun run yesterday.