A thwarted car bomb murder bid on a policeman in Northern Ireland was an attack on the entire community, Stormont’s Justice Minister has said.

During 2012, we reported on the Irish movers and shakers Down Under, in business, arts, community and sports. Here are our 10 people and organisations to watch out for in 2013.

It takes a certain amount of neck to offer an opinion on a book and an even thicker neck to select the best from a year’s assortment. Frank O’Shea reveals his choices.

The changes mean that Bridging A visas issued from November 24, 2012, will have nil work restrictions. This is great news for anyone making a partner or parent visa application now.

Enda Kenny said the public vote, which he hopes will result in a reduction in the number of Oireachtas members, will take place in the autumn.

Hundreds of young Irish were left disappointed as cold, wet weather washed out the traditional Christmas party on Bondi Beach.

A very happy Christmas to everyone from the Irish Echo.

Popular Dublin singer Damien Dempsey will return to Australia in March, it has been announced.

Specific figures for 2013 and beyond are yet to emerge following the release of the Irish budget on December 5.

The apparent suicide of Junior Minister Shane McEntee has left the government reeling and the country in shock.