Mick Clifford: Plenty of room left on the middle path

Daniel O’Connell spoke for Ireland when some of us were defending slavery and some opposing it. Peering into the hearts of each citizen of the country remains as difficult now as it was two centuries ago, although some wish that we all share the same strident views that they do.

The year’s end brings with it time for reflection on some decent reads undertaken during the last twelve months. Two of those that come to mind touch on contemporary themes, while another reflects on an awful time that much of the country is preferring to forget.

Malachi O’Doherty is an exceptional journalist who has never been afraid to take a peek down the route to consensus before embarking on the road less travelled. Born a Catholic and raised in the northern statelet he has constantly questioned what traditionally would have been regarded as his own side.