Washington (AFP) - Gun deaths have been on the rise in the United States but supporters of tighter firearms laws say 2018 may mark a turning point.

'I'm sorry your kid was gunned down in gym class'

From ground-breaking to game-changing, rule-breaking to near parliament-breaking – 2018 has been a big year for TV makers and audiences. Here are some of the most memorable moments.

The past 12 months saw Taoiseach Leo Varadkar fight Ireland's side in Brexit negotiations as the electorate voted for abortion reform and a second term for President Higgins. Ben Kelly looks back at it all

Brexit may empower British democracy to resolve several of the country’s long-standing crises

The World Cup, a slew of great music, the endless summer, some unsung heroes, and the fact that Neighbours is still going – 2018 wasn’t all bad, you know