Literary Culture: Korean epic fantasy “The Bird That Drinks Tears” wins France’s Prix du livre Cultissime, with the prize voted by the public and a panel—an international spotlight on a series rooted in Korean folklore. Food & Tourism: Underground Donut Tour’s haunted experiences are expanding, and its food tours have earned Tripadvisor “Best of the Best” recognition in Boston, Seattle and Edinburgh—another reminder of how storytelling and local treats are driving travel culture. Faith & Environment: Sisters and Catholic communities mark the Season of Creation with “our common home” themes, linking prayer, stewardship and community action. Animal Welfare & Law: Irish Ferries faces a legal notice over alleged breaches of EU rules in transporting unweaned calves to France, with groups warning of feeding and welfare failures. Access to Work & Education: A new solicitor apprentice scheme aims to widen entry into the profession without a third-level degree, with the first cohort expected to start in September 2027. Gender Equality: Europe is reported to be leading progress on closing the global gender gap, though full parity is still decades away. Irish Society & Digital Life: A column argues that digital access is now a practical prerequisite for participating in Irish life, especially for public services. Science & Youth: Irish student Aoibheann Daly wins a major EU science prize for AI-backed brain cancer diagnosis work. Sport & Politics: Ireland beat Israel 3-0 in a Nations League match marked by protests and symbolic gestures tied to Gaza. Church Accountability: Pope Leo XIV pledges to prevent recurrence of clergy abuse during a Lourdes visit, meeting survivors and calling for concrete protective action.