As a unionist, attending Féile an Phobail for the first time was a little daunting, but in general I have found the discussion and debate sessions enjoyable and welcoming to all viewpoints. (I think this year will be the fourth …

Chris McCracken is the Managing Director of The Linen Quarter Business Improvement District The public reception for the Fleadh has been overwhelmingly positive, but the media have recently returned to a familiar theme: dereliction and decay in the city centre. …

So, I have a theory. My theory is that when D’hondt was run following the restoration of the institutions over two years ago, the DUP deliberately avoided picking up the Finance portfolio (they chose Education after Sinn Féin chose Economy) …

Jack Russell is the author of the believethedata.org blog, where this article was originally published. Anna Burns’ Milkman is a remarkable book. Based on her experiences growing up in Belfast during the Troubles, it conveys a claustrophobic sense of oppression and suspicion, gossip and control. Words and …

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced last week that all military personnel aged 30 and over will be annually screened for testosterone deficiency. Those with “low testosterone” will be offered testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).   “Warriors” under 30 will be able …

The new UK Prime Minister has wasted little time in assembling his new cabinet, but of particular interest to those of us resident in Northern Ireland would be his choice of Secretary of State. Any suggestions that Hilary Benn would …

Kier Starmer has resigned as UK Prime Minister saying ‘his work is done’ – which many of you will have your own opinions on how successful his leadership was. After being appointed by King Charles, Andy Burnham becomes the 7th …

What you need to know NI Secretary does not want to step in to set Executive budget as Fiscal Council warns of bailout mentality On Wednesday (15 July), Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn MP appeared before the NI Affairs Committee. BBC NI …

As most of you will know the sub-four-minute mile was long considered impossible until Roger Bannister managed it in 1954. Sensei and many athletes have smashed his record. The latest is Scottish athlete Josh Kerr, who set a new world …

A few years back, at a junction close to where I live, a neighbour while driving out of the street was struct by a motorbike, driving at speed up the main-road, probably on the pavement. It was dark. The motor-bike …