Gavan Reilly's Portfolio writings, ramblings, mumblings

Published on
16 February, 2010

Published in
The University Observer

Soft-Lee Surrendering

If Ireland’s political system cannot exploit the talents of its parliamentarians like George Lee, writes Gavan Reilly, then the system needs fundamental reform


Published on
24 November, 2009

Published in
The University Observer

Ballot box blues

Catherine Ashton’s appointment to a key EU position is a blow to the concept of democracy, writes Gavan Reilly


Published on
10 November, 2009

Published in
The University Observer

A ballot box of red tape

Important as the appointment of the EU’s first full-time President might be, Gavan Reilly believes picking a new Commissioner will be a more pressing concern


Published on
27 October, 2009

Published in
The University Observer

The Upper House rules

Enda Kenny’s proposal to abolish the Seanad is a foolish, short-term solution to a long-term problem, writes Gavan Reilly


Published on
27 October, 2009

Published in
The University Observer

Challenging Times

As Students’ Union activists occupy the offices of Wicklow County Council, Gavan Reilly ponders the merits of public demonstrations


Published on
29 September, 2009

Published in
The University Observer

Keeping it Fresh

Record levels of society membership don’t tell the whole story of declining student participation in extra-curricular activity, according to Gavan Reillly


Published on
29 September, 2009

Published in
The University Observer

Where have all the boys gone?

As postering in UCD is slowly suffocated by the drive for political correctness, Gavan Reilly asks why it’s only women who complain of being objectified.


Published on
18 September, 2009

Published in
The University Observer

The Lisbon Treaty in three hours, or, How Not to Read Laws

I tried to write a colour piece for the next issue reading the entirety of the consolidated treaties on European Union, as amended by the Lisbon Treaty. I failed, in an abject pile of misery, but hereby post my attempt, as a warning to those who may heed it. As another noted European federalist, Otto […]


Published on
15 September, 2009

Published in
The University Observer

The Silent Debate

Gordon Brown can no longer resist calls for a Leaders’ Debate in advance of the UK General Election, writes Gavan Reilly.


Published on
25 April, 2006

Published in
The University Observer

Another brick in the Chinese firewall

Gav Reilly investigates the state imposition of censorship in China, a country with a powerful desire to control its self-image at the expense of civil liberties When most people first think of China, the mind’s eye conjures hazy images of an infinitely vast land, with a Great Wall, hearty but replicable cuisine, a mystic tradition […]