Author: Sam Allcock

What’s better than a cosy Christmas movie marathon? Pairing it with the perfect wine and festive treats! Rory Craig from WineStation shares his expert advice on how to elevate your movie nights with brilliant wine and food combinations. Whether you’re diving into classic favourites or feel-good comedies, here’s how to make your Christmas extra special with this Christmas wine and food pairings. Champagne & National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Celebrate the hilarity of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation with a sophisticated glass of Champagne. Rory suggests pairing it with decadent snacks like duck pâté or foie gras to create a contrasting match…

The Irish economy risks are increasing due to the anticipated policies of the incoming U.S. administration, according to a recent assessment by the Central Bank of Ireland. This warning comes as Dublin grapples with its significant reliance on multinational corporations, particularly in the tech and pharmaceutical sectors, which are heavily influenced by U.S. corporate tax policies and trade regulations. In its latest quarterly report, the central bank highlighted how President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tax cuts, incentives for domestic production, and potential tariffs could adversely affect Ireland’s economy. These changes could disrupt trade flows between Ireland and the U.S., leading to…

As the festive season approaches, health officials are bracing for a significant spike in flu cases, with projections indicating that hospitalisations will reach their peak during Christmas and New Year. The Health Service Executive (HSE) has reported nearly 2,000 cases of Covid-19, RSV, and influenza notified in just the past week, underscoring the urgent need for public awareness. Recent data reveals that between 600 and 900 individuals may require hospitalisation due to influenza alone, while more than 600 people have already been admitted for various respiratory illnesses, including Covid-19 and RSV. Emergency departments have seen a marked increase in patients…

Cork County Council has officially launched its Local Festival and Event Fund for 2025, aimed at enhancing local culture and boosting tourism in the region. This initiative is designed to support a diverse range of festivals and events that celebrate Cork’s unique identity, stimulate economic growth, and draw domestic visitors. The fund offers financial assistance to event organisers, enabling them to extend the tourism season and create lasting benefits for their communities. Grants of up to €6,000 are available, providing valuable resources to help festivals thrive and promote local engagement. Support for a Variety of Events The Local Festival and…

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland hosted its highly anticipated annual Christmas Charity Lunch last week, raising an impressive €33,700 for its charity partners. Held at the elegant Royal Horseguards Hotel in London, the event brought together 216 members and guests from the travel industry to celebrate the festive season with carols, auctions, and a spirit of generosity. A Cornerstone Event for the Travel Industry The PATA Christmas Charity Lunch has become a hallmark occasion for the travel sector, providing a joyful end to the year while supporting meaningful causes. This year’s sold-out event, organised in collaboration…

If you’re tired of the traditional turkey this Christmas, why not try spiced beef? A favourite in Cork and a delicious alternative for the festive table, spiced beef pairs beautifully with crunchy roast potatoes, sweet red cabbage, and tangy horseradish sauce. This food recipe, courtesy of Rachel Allen, is rich in flavour and even better when served as leftovers in sandwiches or salads. The Legacy of Spiced Beef Spiced beef has deep roots in Irish culinary history, particularly in Cork. Once a staple for sailors, who relied on its long shelf life thanks to its salt and spice preservation, it…

Celebrity chef Anna Haugh is set to take viewers on a captivating Irish food tour, celebrating the culinary diversity and cultural richness of her homeland. Starting Monday, 6 January, this exciting new series, Anna Haugh’s Big Irish Food Tour, will air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One Northern Ireland at 8pm, with the entire series also available to stream on BBC iPlayer. This 15-part journey, commissioned by BBC Daytime and BBC Northern Ireland in partnership with Northern Ireland Screen, highlights the best of Irish produce, traditions, and flavours. Anna begins her adventure in Ballycastle, County Antrim, and ends in County…

The first national pelvic health clinic in Ireland, aimed at treating a range of conditions including bladder and bowel incontinence, was officially inaugurated today in Dublin by Taoiseach Simon Harris. The National Pelvic Floor Health Centre, located at St Michael’s Hospital in Dún Laoghaire, promises to deliver a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to patients experiencing complex pelvic floor dysfunction. This innovative clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, allowing for rapid diagnosis within a dedicated clinical environment. This setup is expected to significantly enhance the patient experience and improve health outcomes for those affected by pelvic health issues. Pelvic floor dysfunction…

A recent report from researchers at University College Cork (UCC) reveals that the Ireland food industry is struggling to meet essential health and sustainability targets, placing it behind international counterparts. The findings, released on 13 December 2024, highlight significant shortcomings in public commitments made by Irish food companies regarding nutrition and sustainability. The study evaluated the public statements of 35 companies, focusing on areas such as product formulation, nutrition labelling, and marketing for the nutrition assessment. For sustainability, the researchers examined commitments related to emissions, packaging, food waste, water usage, and product portfolios. The results are detailed in Ireland’s inaugural…

Choosing the right wine drink for your Christmas dinner can elevate the occasion, creating a perfect harmony between your festive dishes and the beverages served. For those who prefer traditional favourites, these wine suggestions cater to both conservative and adventurous palates while ensuring a memorable dining experience. Start with Bubbles Nothing sets the tone for Christmas festivities like a glass of Champagne. The effervescence adds a celebratory touch and pairs beautifully with starters like smoked salmon, prawns, or oysters. If you’re feeling indulgent, continue serving Champagne with the first course—it’s a versatile option that works well with many appetisers. Exceptional…