Monday
oalition denies that a threat is posed by the re-emergence of the Provisional IRA, despite serious concerns raised in the North about the return of the republican murder machine.Adopting a soft line, Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald has claimed the Provisional IRA does not exist as a terrorist organisation - in the face of mounting pressure over the activities of the Provos.
Tuesday
Shares, private pension funds and oil prices take a battering amid concerns over the slowing Chinese economy, on what becomes known as 'Black Monday' on the stock markets. Markets from Shanghai to Paris and New York all slump in what commentators quickly dub 'The Great Fall of China'.
Wednesday
Garda Commissioner Nóirín O'Sullivan is ordered to carry out an urgent report into the activities of the IRA - just months after denying the Provos' existence. The commissioner's credibility is put on the line after Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald demand that the IRA threat be reassessed.
Thursday
Irish bookmaker Paddy Power announces it is to reward its shareholders with an €80m windfall when it joins forces with UK company Betfair to create the world's largest online betting firm. The €7.5bn gambling giant is to be largely run from Dublin, where Paddy Power employs 1,400 of its 2,600 Irish workers.
Friday
Ireland's failure to take a larger number of refugees is criticised by German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The stinging attack on our opt-out to EU policies comes after 71 refugees are found dead in a lorry in Austria near the Hungarian border .