The difference, or the interplay and the confusion, between public and private is a recurring theme for Jonathan Dee. He explains all to Declan Burke.

It being exactly two centuries since the birth of Charles Dickens tomorrow, you’ll forgive our leaning on the old master this morning.

The report by Judge Michael Reilly, Inspector of Prisons (Jan 18), into the conditions within Limerick Prison came as no surprise to those familiar with the prison justice system in Ireland.