In the moment that JP McManus choked up in the chamber of Limerick City and County Council, the propaganda war raging over Ireland’s first directly elected mayor entered new territory. It was June 24, 2025 and the Limerick businessman and racehorse owner was seated on the far left of the top table, facing the elected members and reading a seven-page statement to a packed chamber. The media had been locked outside. This was private – and personal.  Everyone knew McManus had been hurt by the decision to reject his gift of a €30 million building in the heart of the…

Want to continue reading?

Get unlimited access to The Currency and The Wall Street Journal with an annual membership – and receive a free, signed copy of Vincent Browne’s new book, Charles Haughey: Glory, Greed and Guns, delivered straight to your door.

Subscribe

Cancel at any time.

Are you already a member? .