Minister for Justice Helen McEntee is seeking Government approval for the renewal of key provisions in counter-terrorism legislation, citing a persistent threat from dissident republican groups and serious organized crime. The Offences Against the State Act and Criminal Justice Act are set to be extended for another 12-month period.
In a separate development, Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys is focusing on the Pathways to Work Strategy to support long-term unemployed individuals in entering the workforce. With a record low unemployment rate of 1.1%, the department is emphasizing education, training, and work placements to facilitate job opportunities.
Furthermore, Minister for Finance Michael McGrath will update the Government on the National Payments Strategy, which includes provisions to ensure continued access to cash through ATMs and cash service points. The proposed legislation aims to maintain ATM levels and establish regional criteria for accessibility, with the Central Bank set to regulate ATM operators.