In 1845, before the great famine, the population of Ireland stood at 8.5 million, which was exactly half of the 17 million population of the United States at the time. The US now has a population of 330 million, we have dropped from 50% to 1.5% of the US population. Today, in our near neighbour the Netherlands, over 500 people live at a high standard per square kilometre, here in Ireland it is ... read more>

Our attitudes to healthcare have changed enormously since the pandemic began. New studies by McKinsey and PWC have shown how attitudes are shifting in relation to medical technology, remote delivery, and new ways of interacting with healthcare providers. The pandemic demonstrated how much we look to new technology, whether it be mRNA vaccines or healthcare apps and IT to administer our inter... read more>

Last week French President Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for more co-ordinated European Defence Force initiatives. At first glance this may seem to be of little relevance to the Irish householder who has enough problems to be dealing with. Until we reflect on the changing nature of warfare. The days of boots-on-the-ground invasions of countries like Afghan... read more>

Last week the water quality of 180,000 householders in Dublin and Wexford was compromised when two water treatment plants failed. 52 people became ill and sought treatment. Over the last years we have seen regular ‘boil water notices’ in many parts of the country due to biological contaminants. In addition a number of beaches and swimming spots were closed over the summer as raw sewage is poure... read more>

Energy prices in Europe are going up and Ireland is no exception. Irish electricity suppliers have announced price increases. In July, the ESB announced a 9% price increase and many other suppliers have followed. What is happening and what can you do about it? There are a few factors playing into the increase in prices. Over the last couple of weeks Europe, including Ireland, has had excepti... read more>