Still giving voice to our readers - 175 years of publishing

THIS decade of centenaries has underlined the power, wisdom and necessity of remembrance.

Internationally, events marking the charnel-house of the First World War reminded us of the real meaning of sacrifice and made us look anew at the peace Europe enjoys today. By being reminded of the alternative — catastrophe — our commitment to protecting European stability must be renewed and strengthened.

At home, we’ve spent the last eight months honouring those who, in 1916, ignored the inevitable consequences of confronting the world’s most voracious imperialists. That centenary has obliged us to ask the question that will never go away: Have we properly honoured the noble ideals of 1916 and made best use of the opportunities that visceral declaration made possible? It remains, and will remain, a goading, open question.