Brexit: A deal would begin a long, difficult process

Two exceptional events today, one in Tokyo the other in London, will set the mood of the nation. In Tokyo, Ireland will try to become the first nation to beat New Zealand in a World Cup game since France did so magnificently in 2007.

A victory would encourage the wildest fantasies and a keyboard stampede for plane tickets to Japan. But, just as is the case with the second event, proportion, circumspection and judgment are required if fantasy is not to become delusion. No matter what the result, no matter what is promised, as they wisely say in Sliabh Luachra, go easy when your jug is full.