The article discusses the challenges and changes faced by nurses and midwives during the COVID-19 pandemic, coinciding with the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. It highlights the shortage of nurses worldwide, the need for nine million more nurses by 2030, and the efforts in Ireland to recruit and retain nursing staff. The article features personal stories from various nurses, including student midwife Aoife Byrne, clinical nurse manager Sisi Shinith, director of public health nursing Essene Cassidy, staff nurse Neil Salmon, clinical nurse manager Shella De Los Santos, mental health nurse Louise Donohoe, director of nursing services Helen Forristal, paediatric nurse Aishling Byrne, and director of care Trish Curran. It emphasizes the importance of nursing in healthcare policy, the rapid upskilling for critical care, and the emotional and professional challenges faced by nurses during the pandemic.

The article discusses the experiences of various individuals who have embraced remote working from rural locations in Ireland. Lisa Smyth, a technical adviser for Catholic Relief Services, works from Darragh, Co Clare, and has adapted to remote working despite connectivity challenges. Deirdre Ní Luasaigh and Adrian Legg run Culture Ark from Sherkin Island, leveraging their unique skill sets in digitization and technology. Nathalie Moyano González, a linguist and localisation specialist, has recently moved to Coolcronan, Co Mayo, and emphasizes the importance of community in remote working. Damien McClean operates SIA Flexitanks from Malin, Co Donegal, and finds remote management to be communication-intensive. Lastly, Karen O’Connell, the Irish national coordinator for IFIC, enjoys the benefits of remote working from Valentia Island, Co Kerry, where she is also involved in community activities. The article highlights the personal stories of these individuals, their motivations for choosing remote work, and the impact on their lifestyles and local communities.

The article discusses the impact of Anna Parnell and the Ladies' Land League on Irish women's history and political activism. It traces Anna's journey from the Anglo-Irish Ascendancy to becoming a leader who challenged traditional gender roles and landlord rule in Ireland. The formation of the Ladies' Land League was a response to the threat of famine and the need for tenant rights, which became a militant force under Anna's leadership. Despite facing criticism and the eventual disbanding of the League, Anna's legacy influenced future generations of feminists and nationalists, including figures like Maud Gonne and Constance Markievicz. The article also mentions the publication of Anna Parnell's 'The Tale of a Great Sham' by UCD Press, which provides a detailed account of the Land War from a woman's perspective.

The article discusses Sesame, the first synchrotron light source in the Middle East, located in Jordan. Sesame stands for Synchrotron-light for Experimental Science and Applications in the Middle East and is a particle accelerator that facilitates various scientific researches. The facility is unique not only for its scientific capabilities but also for its role in fostering collaboration among scientists from diverse and often conflicting countries in the region, including Turkey, Cyprus, Israel, Palestine, and Iran. The project, modeled on Cern and developed under Unesco, has faced challenges such as funding and political sanctions but has achieved significant milestones, including running on renewable energy from a solar power plant. The facility has already facilitated over 70 experiments, with applications in life sciences, medicine, archaeology, and energy. The article highlights the importance of Sesame in promoting science diplomacy and building connections between member countries.

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The article is a personal account of the author's experience at the Cliffs of Moher Retreat, where they participated in yoga and wellness activities led by Michelle Moroney. The author discusses Moroney's background, including her experience with the 2004 tsunami in Thailand and her subsequent establishment of wellness-focused businesses such as yogatraveller.com and the Cliffs of Moher Retreat. The piece also reviews Moroney's book 'The Life Audit', which aims to help readers achieve a healthier and happier life through self-reflection and personal development exercises. The book is structured around a 12-month plan and includes various tools for self-improvement. The author reflects on the impact of the retreat and the book's approach to wellness, emphasizing the importance of starting small and the benefits of incorporating wellness practices into daily life.

The article discusses the reopening of Ireland's offshore islands to visitors after the lockdown. It highlights the attractions and activities available on islands such as Cape Clear, Inishmaan, Inishmore, Inisheer, Inishbofin, Arranmore, and Rathlin. The author provides information on accommodations, dining options, and transportation, including ferries and local businesses ready to welcome tourists. The article emphasizes the importance of following social distancing and local guidelines while enjoying the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural experiences the islands offer. It also mentions the impact of the lack of foreign tourists and how it has allowed locals to rediscover the peace and solitude of their surroundings.

The book discussed in the article provides an in-depth look at the significant role women played during Ireland's struggle for independence. It brings to light the diverse backgrounds of these women, ranging from nobility to common workers, and their unified commitment to the cause of Irish freedom. The author emphasizes the political awakening and subsequent imprisonment of many Irish women of that era, with a focus on the experiences associated with Kilmainham Gaol, a notable prison during the revolution. The book aims to uncover the hidden stories and celebrate the bravery and personalities of these revolutionary women.

The article introduces 'The Explainer,' a weekly podcast produced by TheJournal.ie. This podcast aims to delve into significant news stories, providing listeners with a more in-depth understanding of the topic at hand. The article invites readers to listen to 'The Explainer' on their preferred podcast platform.

The article discusses a new stamp released by An Post as part of the Irish Abroad series, which features the author Edna O'Brien and the priest Fr Michael J Kelly SJ. Both O'Brien and Kelly have had significant impacts on society, with O'Brien challenging traditional norms through her literature and Kelly advocating for education and HIV/AIDS awareness in Zambia. The stamp celebrates their contributions and the diaspora. Fr Kelly, who is based in Zambia, shared his thoughts on the stamp and his work, including his support for condom use to prevent HIV/AIDS, which is unconventional for a priest. The article also touches on O'Brien's recent work and her continued influence in literature.

The article highlights the role of Ukrainian artists and musicians in promoting their culture and maintaining international support amidst the ongoing war. The Odesa Opera and Ballet Theatre, despite the surrounding conflict, celebrated Ukrainian composer Olexander Rodin and the resilience of art. The theatre's project, led by Ludmila Sergiychuk, aims to showcase Ukrainian culture through art. The opera 'Kateryna', based on a work by Taras Shevchenko and composed by Rodin, parallels Ukraine's current struggle. The Lviv orchestra, with conductor Raffaele Ponti, continues to perform, including Sibelius's 'Finlandia', resonating with Ukraine's fight for independence. The article also touches on the personal impact of the war on artists and musicians, with some joining the military and others providing support through their performances. The city of Lviv remains culturally active, inviting foreign musicians and reaching out to soldiers for therapeutic engagement with music.

The article describes a train journey from Iasi, Romania to Chisinau, Moldova, highlighting the stark economic differences between the two countries. Moldova, the poorest country in Europe, is depicted through the eyes of its citizens, many of whom work abroad due to low salaries at home. The story covers Moldova's aspirations to join the EU, the impact of the war in Ukraine, and the country's struggle with Russian influence and disinformation. It also touches on the success of the Purcari winery despite Russian sanctions and the efforts of Moldova's government and President Maia Sandu to pursue European integration. The article concludes with the importance of Ukraine's success for Moldova's future.

The article discusses the aftermath of a tragic school shooting in Serbia, where a 13-year-old boy killed nine classmates and a security guard. The incident has sparked a national conversation about the country's violent media and aggressive political culture. The public's response included protests demanding governmental resignations, media regulation, and an end to the glorification of war criminals. The government has initiated an amnesty for illegal weapons. The article also touches on Serbia's complex relationship with the EU, highlighting the challenges of integration due to historical grievances, the need for compromise on Kosovo, and the influence of corruption and media control on politics. The protests are seen as a societal mobilization against violence and the current autocratic political system, with the opposition party Nedavimo Beograd playing a role in organizing them. The article also mentions Serbia's position on the Reporters without Borders press freedom index and its strategic importance in the context of the war in Ukraine.

The article discusses the significant role of radio in Irish society and the potential impact of Bauer Media Audio's interest in acquiring Communicorps' stations. It highlights radio's ability to alleviate loneliness during the Covid pandemic and its influence on national conversations. The author expresses concern over the rise of US and UK-style talk radio in Ireland, which often features divisive and bigoted content. The article criticizes the exclusion of women and minorities in talk radio and the potential dangers it poses to democracy. It also touches on the history of 'shock jocks' like Howard Stern and their contribution to conservative movements. The author urges Bauer Media Audio to adopt an inclusive approach to programming, similar to Netflix's strategy, which could be beneficial for democracy and business.

The article discusses the situation of Russian journalists working in exile from Media Hub Riga, Latvia, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Kirill Nabutov, a former sports commentator and documentary producer, left Russia due to threats after posting anti-war messages. Nadezhda Prusenkova from Novaya Gazeta, which was the last independent media outlet in Russia, also relocated to Riga due to safety concerns. Novaya Gazeta continues to operate as a European edition despite its licenses being revoked in Russia. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, funded by the US Congress, has moved its Moscow bureau to Latvia and is expanding its Riga hub to circumvent censorship. The article also touches on the role of strategic communications in countering Russian disinformation, as conducted by the Nato Stratcom Centre of Excellence. Despite efforts by independent media, the majority of the Russian population still consumes state-censored news, and the impact of recent events on Russian propaganda's effectiveness remains uncertain.

The article discusses the first proportional representation election in Ireland on January 15, 1920, highlighting the participation of women as candidates. Women's groups like Cumann na d’Teachtaire and the Irish Women’s Franchise League played a significant role in advocating for female representation. Despite the efforts, only 42 women were elected out of over 1,800 seats. Sinn Féin was noted for setting a good example by including women, while other parties were less supportive. The article also covers the success of women in Dublin and surrounding areas, with notable figures such as Kathleen Clarke and Hanna Sheehy Skeffington being elected. The piece reflects on the historical context of women's suffrage and political involvement in Ireland, mentioning the Irish Independent's and Freeman’s Journal's reports on women voters. It concludes with a critique of the tendency to select female candidates based on their relations to prominent men, a practice that would continue to affect women's political opportunities.

Margaret Ward shares her experience and tips for traveling without consuming alcohol. She reflects on a trip to Copenhagen where she enjoyed the city sober, highlighting the benefits of being fully present and avoiding the negative consequences of drinking. Ward provides strategies for those who are sober, sober-curious, or simply want to travel without alcohol. Tips include having the main meal at lunch, planning morning activities, requesting alcohol removal from accommodations, sticking to routines, preparing for triggers, packing a sober travel toolkit, having an accountability buddy, rewarding oneself, staying hydrated and eating regularly, and maintaining a positive mindset. The article aims to show that alcohol-free travel can be rewarding and is not about deprivation but about enhancing the travel experience.

The article discusses the significant role played by the women of Cumann na mBan during the Irish Civil War. It highlights how they rejected the Anglo-Irish Treaty in 1922 and actively participated in the conflict, from the Battle of Dublin to supporting IRA flying columns. The article details the actions of prominent members such as Margaret Pearse, Kathleen Clarke, Mary MacSwiney, and Kate O'Callaghan, who opposed the Treaty despite personal losses. It also covers the establishment of Cumann na Saoirse by pro-Treaty members and the militarization of Cumann na mBan as they worked closely with the IRA. The piece recounts the events of the Civil War, including the bombardment of the Four Courts, the Battle of Dublin, and the guerrilla phase of the war. It touches on the commemoration of Easter Week in Kilmainham Gaol and the ill-treatment of female prisoners. The article concludes with the ceasefire order by Frank Aiken in 1923 and the release of prisoners in December, noting the lack of recognition for women's contributions in the ceasefire message.

The article is a travelogue describing the author's hiking experience in Tenerife, Canary Islands. It begins with a vivid description of the challenging hike through the Anaga forest and the arid landscapes of Tenerife's coast. The author reflects on the physical demands of the hike and the contrasting environments encountered. The piece also touches on the history of Tenerife, highlighting its past as a hub of global commerce and its rich wine culture. The article concludes with a stargazing experience at the Parador de las Cañadas del Teide, emphasizing the island's natural beauty and the awe-inspiring night sky. Additionally, the article provides practical information on flights to Tenerife with Aer Lingus and hiking holiday packages offered by CanariaWays.

The article discusses the lack of diversity and representation in Irish media, particularly the underrepresentation of women. It references the work of various groups and initiatives, such as Women on Air and the Equality Expert Group, which have highlighted the issue and called for change. The article notes that despite some efforts, such as RTÉ's gender diversity policy, the problem persists. It emphasizes the importance of media diversity for a representative democracy and for reflecting society's interests. The article suggests that the State should implement a system to track and report on media diversity, and it cites international examples like the BBC's 50:50 Equality Project as models to follow. The article is based on a submission to the Future of Media Commission by the Equality Expert Group, advocating for equality and diversity in Irish media.

The article reflects on the author's personal experiences related to the Northern Ireland conflict, particularly around the time of the Good Friday Agreement and the Omagh bombing. The author recounts the relief felt when leaving Northern Ireland checkpoints, the hope that came with the Good Friday Agreement, and the subsequent despair following the Omagh bombing. The piece also touches on childhood memories of crossing the border for sweets and petrol, and a tense encounter with a British soldier. The narrative conveys the fragility of peace and the deep-seated impact of the conflict on individuals.

Margaret Ward, the Lent Lunch Organiser, discusses the upcoming season of Lent and the opportunity it presents for reflection and growth in both temporal and spiritual aspects of life. She highlights the tradition of Lent lunches hosted by Keighley Churches Together at the Salvation Army Centre, which are open to everyone. The lunches consist of simple meals and aim to foster fellowship among attendees. The article also mentions that donations collected during these lunches will be sent to Christian Aid to support the most vulnerable. The lunches are scheduled for Fridays during Lent, with specific dates provided.