RUC Foster mother THE RUC core is still beating at the heart of the PSNI as the Peelers cling to the title 'RUC Athletic Association'. New DUP MLA and recent UUP defector Arlene Foster is opposing warnings about its acceptability in society if the Peelers' health association insists on keeping its unhealthy association with the RUC. Free article

A packed Hillgrove Hotel in Monaghan town heard last Friday night how Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin helped spearhead the Sinn Féin electoral strategy. At a function organised by local republicans in recognition of the role played by Caoimhghín as a member of Monaghan County Council for over 18 years, Gerry Adams said that the Sinn Féin Dáil leader had given excellent service as a public representative and that he will continue to do so for many years to come. Free article

AN PHOBLACHT editor Martin Spain is pictured with Dublin republican Seamus Gibson, who retired this week after over 25 years of service to the paper and the republican cause. Seamus, or Gibbo, as he is known to his friends, personally ensured that the paper was distributed each week to paper sellers in Dublin city centre. "People like Seamus have been invaluable to the paper over the years," said Martin. "All of us in the paper will miss him, but we wish him every success for a well-earned retirement." Free article

Three hardy Bogtrotters, Eddy O'Neill, John McCann and Donal Gannon, joined about 40 other walkers outside Dublin Castle just before midnight last Friday night. They were setting out for Glenmalure in the footsteps of the escapers Art O'Neill, Red Hugh O'Donnell and their guide, Edward Eustace. Art's half brother Henry, who also escaped, immediately did a runner on his own, much to the annoyance of Red Hugh. Free article