“A smart society recognises the benefits of treating problems before they escalate, either through helping people quit smoking or moving them out of mould-blighted bedsits. A compassionate society also tries to limit human misery and suffering wherever possible.”

Irish-British journalist, broadcaster, and author

Dawn Hayley Foster was an Irish-British journalist, broadcaster, and author. She wrote mainly about social affairs, politics, economics, and women’s rights, and became known for her reporting and commentary on public life. Foster worked as a staff writer for Inside Housing, The Guardian, and Jacobin magazine. She also contributed to The Independent, The New York Times, Tribune, and Dissent, and appeared regularly on television as a political commentator. She was especially known for her coverage of the Grenfell Tower fire.