Climate crisis will be the challenge of new decade - The Irish Times - Thu, Dec 31, 2009

OPINION: What will the decade ahead hold for the environment? Mankind has yet to meet the stark challenges posed by global warming, which will not go away
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However unwittingly, we are the root of the problem, and therefore the solution. If an army were massing on our borders, if an asteroid were hurtling towards Earth, no one would question the need to act. But as we set fire to the only home humanity has ever known, we struggle to perceive the threat and have so far failed to act decisively.

Heavy snowfalls causing major traffic disruption - The Irish Times - Fri, Jan 01, 2010

Heavy snowfalls that left much of Ireland covered in a white blanket this morning have caused major traffic disruption.
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Widespread severe or very severe ground frost will set in tonight, with temperatures expected to range between -3 and -9 degrees Celsius.

Perthshire people to get first cold weather payments - Perthshire Advertiser

Scottish Secretary Jim Murphy said: “These payments make a real difference to people’s lives.

“Last year we trebled the amount paid out under the Cold Weather Payment from £8.50 to £25 and, in 2008/09, we paid out just over £20 million across the UK.

“We don’t want to see people shivering in their homes at the coldest time of year and this payment is part of our overall strategy to reduce fuel poverty across the country.
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“I want to see all Scots warm [but won't they get kidney stones?] over the festive season and beyond.

EU Referendum: Pachauri: TERI-Europe – the enigma (Part 2)

...This, then, points to a profound suspicion about the operation. That it should have declared an income of only £9,000 and a lesser amount for expenses for its financial year ending 30 June had a particular advantage, viz à viz the Charity Commission. Falling below the £10,000 threshold on turnover, this meant it did not have to publish either its accounts or its annual report. Its affairs could be kept away from the prying eyes of the casual public.