2004

In 2004, Ireland saw significant events such as the introduction of a smoking ban, Brian McFadden leaving Westlife, and a £26 million raid at the Northern Bank. Trams returned to Dublin with the LUAS, while fake tan, botox, and men's grooming grew in popularity. The launch of Ireland's Oxegen and Electric Picnic festivals marked cultural milestones. Google and eBay chose Ireland for their European headquarters. At the Athens Olympics, Ireland's only medal was marred by controversy after Cian O'Connor's horse tested positive. Ireland's EU Presidency saw ten countries join the EU, and Taoiseach Bertie Ahern attended a G8 summit. Globally, George Bush won a second term, the US struggled in Iraq, and the Asian tsunami devastated 13 countries.