When Minister for Health Noel Browne attempted to introduce free medical care for expectant mothers and children under 16 he was left alone to face the full might of the Catholic church, writes Ryle Dwyer.

His witty comments, which made a monarch laugh and made headlines around the world, have helped Pat O’Connell steal Molly Malone’s crown as Ireland’s best-known fishmonger.

LACK of effective leadership could be costing businesses up to €5 billion in lost orders annually.