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Harry Browne’s searing polemic against Bono should be of some interest to socialists, particularly those sections of the book where Browne elaborates on Bono’s labyrinthine business affairs and crucially his role in espousing neo-liberal ideology on a global stage.

Plutocrats wield power and influence by virtue of their wealth. The ultra-free-market, globalised capitalism of recent years has produced a new breed of super-rich plutocrats. Wealth gives them influence, which gives them power, which enhances their wealth. socialistparty.net reviews a recent study of the super-rich elite.

Commentators and media are already looking toward the centenary of the 1916 Rising. There has been much less comment so far on the centenary of the 1913 Dublin Lockout, also a pivotal moment in our history, despite the fact that July marks the beginning of the events one hundred years ago that led to the most intense labour struggle ever on this island.

On 2 July Ulster Bank announced another wave of branch closures and job losses as well as indicating they will be taking steps to repossess more properties. In the coming period all the banks will be implementing similar plans.

The rage is justified. Of ordinary people that is, upon hearing the Anglo Bank audio tapes from 2008 in which is evident the bankers’callous disregard as their reckless practices had the bank teetering on a precipice and their hands were out to swindle the taxpayers. When the same sentiments are expressed by the establishment media and politicians, however, it leaves me cold.

The successful implementation of the property tax is a Pyrrhic victory for the government. It comes at enormous political expense, particularly for Labour.

In a recent Irish Times poll 75% of voters have voiced their support for the government’s new legislation on abortion. However, this legislation is extremely limited and falls far short of what is needed and what there is a demand for in society.

The nation watched in horror as the shocking truth about what happens behind closed doors at our privately owned crèches unfolded on Prime Time. Disturbing images of children being mistreated have enraged parents up and down the country, and all for some of the highest child care costs in Europe.

‘Domestic violence is a serious crime against women and children in Irish society but one that is hidden and minimised.’ The words of Margaret Martin, the Director of Women’s Aid as she launched the organisation’s Annual Report 2012.

In the next couple of weeks, Frank Gallagher, Socialist Party Councillor on Drogheda Borough Council, will step down. Since his election in 2009, Frank has been in the forefront of fighting all measures of austerity and for the interests of ordinary working people in Drogheda and the general Louth area.