To feel the (algo) rhythm of life is to feel the powerful beat

Journalists are the awkward squad asking difficult questions, and should be cherished for that, writes Allan Prosser, acting editor of the Irish Examiner

TAKING charge of a great newspaper, even temporarily, provides opportunities and pleasures that other walks of life do not. One involves supervising the daily discussion on what should fill the next day’s opinion, or “leader” column.

Readers might imagine that some forensic analysis takes place on the profound issues facing the nation. And that is sometimes true. But in my experience, 49 years and counting, the decision on the next day’s editorial normally sums down to a handful of considerations a) what are the topics that are judged to be most relevant to, or interesting for, the audience? b) what has the paper said before on the subject, and should that position be altered? c) is there anything new to say? d) is the point of view being proposed capable of being argued and defended, even if it is unpopular?