A new documentary looks at the life of Chester Beatty, and the incredible collection of St Paul’s letters and other items he bequeathed to the state, writes Richard Fitzpatrick.

Ukip and the SNP are making inroads ahead of the election. Deadlock at Westminster would spell bad news for Ireland, writes 

A 19th century incenses storage box from Japan shows a monkey holding a peach; while another is in the shape of a lute.

He was probably the Chester Beatty of Cork, but Robert Day, one of the great collectors, has never been fully studied — or widely appreciated.

The Arts Council has shown that investment in the arts yields significant returns. So why is it being cut, asks Alan O’Riordan