On watching the Remembrance Sunday commemoration in London, one was struck by the decorum and polished performance of the ceremony.

Much has been made of the first UK State visit by President Higgins and the improved relations between the two countries.

Finance Minister Michael Noonan said “we can’t go mad again,” in relation to our economic crisis.

Mary O’Regan reports (Nov 18) that President Higgins’ first UK state visit “is expected to build on the political, economic and cultural ties between both countries”.

I understand that the menu at the garden party held in commemoration of the 1913 Lockout included smoked salmon, strawberries with chocolate and scones with cream.

It has been reported that Willie Frazer may be visiting Dublin to ask the Taoiseach to lower our national flag.

Marks and Spencer and Electric restaurant and bar on the South Mall were the headline winners at the Cork Business Association’s annual awards and gala dinner, held on Saturday at the Maryborough Hotel and attended by nearly 200 guests.