TP O'Mahony: Second lockdown will test our sense of social solidarity

We're accepting the restrictions for now but our history shows we do not, as a people, possess a very well-developed sense of the 'common good' –  selfish individualism and the pursuit of sectional interests have been more characteristic of us, writes TP O'Mahony

Toys and flowers at the Little Angels memorial plot in the grounds of Bessborough House, Cork. For far too long we were happy to see women who gave birth ‘outside of wedlock’ consigned to mother and baby homes, but widespread tax evasion was never seriously tackled.

Our sense of social solidarity, as well as our tolerance for unpalatable measures aimed at the common good, will be tested during the second lockdown.

Restrictions on personal liberties on the scale required by a national lockdown may even test our loyalty to and belief in the institutions of democracy.