Author: David Murphy
The Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, is set to include Egypt, Morocco, India, Brazil, and Malawi to Ireland’s list of safe countries. This decision will ensure that asylum seekers from these nations will have their International Protection applications processed in just three months. As the topic of immigration gains prominence in public opinion polls, the government believes that addressing accommodation for those seeking International Protection also requires a closer examination of immigration processes. While being designated as a “safe country” does not prevent individuals from applying for international protection, it does require them to prove why they are in need…
Government Moves Forward with Defense Forces Restructuring The Government is moving ahead with plans to revamp the command and control structures within the Defense Forces. Tánaiste and Minister for Defense, Micheál Martin, will present a proposal to the Cabinet to amend current legislation, implementing changes recommended by the Commission on the Defense Forces. Amidst recent scrutiny, with 68 members facing criminal charges, the proposed restructuring aims to enhance efficiency and improve decision-making processes. The new structure will introduce a chief of defense, replacing the current chief of staff role. The minister for defense will delegate authority to the chief of…
In a heated exchange in the Dáil, Tánaiste Micheál Martin defended the pricing of homes on the Oscar Traynor Road in Coolock, Dublin. The affordable homes scheme will offer three-bed houses priced between €400,000 and €475,000. Responding to criticism from Sinn Féin’s Pearse Doherty, who claimed residents in Coolock could never afford homes at those prices, Mr Martin pointed out the availability of schemes like First Homes and Help to Buy, which could significantly reduce the cost for buyers. However, Mr Doherty labeled the Government as “out of touch” and accused Mr Martin of misleading the Dáil. Independent Councillor John…
The meeting between Taoiseach Simon Harris and Dr Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid, the incoming Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland, marked a significant milestone in Ireland’s relationship with Palestine. Following Ireland’s recent recognition of the State of Palestine, the discussion centered around the importance of international law, human rights, and the pursuit of a two-state solution. Dr Abdalmajid expressed gratitude towards Ireland, Spain, and Norway for their recognition of Palestine, emphasizing the need for peace and understanding in the region. The conversation also touched on the ceasefire and hostage release plan proposed by US President Joe Biden, with a call for all parties…
Israel’s reprimand of Ireland’s ambassador was met with strong opposition from Tánaiste Micheál Martin, who deemed it “totally unacceptable”. This came after Ambassador Sonya McGuinness was summoned and shown a video of Hamas actions, a move criticized for its lack of diplomatic protocol. Following Ireland’s recognition of Palestine alongside Norway and Spain, Israel issued warnings of “severe consequences”, accusing Ireland of “rewarding terrorism”. Additionally, Israeli officials engaged in a public dispute, with statements from Ministers Katz and Harris causing tensions between the countries. Mr Martin emphasized the importance of diplomatic channels and criticized the treatment of Ambassador McGuinness, highlighting the…
As the European Parliament elections draw near, the focus on immigration takes center stage in a heated eight-candidate debate on RTÉ One television. Fianna Fáil TD Barry Cowen expresses how the topic has become a major concern among voters, highlighting a significant shift in public opinion over the past weeks. The discussion delves into the challenges of managing immigration, with participants sharing varying viewpoints on border control and asylum seekers. Sinn Féin MEP Chris McManus emphasizes the importance of addressing the issue with the British Government to ensure a seamless border on the island of Ireland. Independent candidates like Saoirse…
Irish businessman Tony O’Reilly, aged 88, has passed away in Dublin after a brief illness. Surrounded by family at St Vincent’s Hospital, his remarkable legacy as a marketeer, sportsman, and philanthropist lives on. He created Kerrygold butter, set up the Ireland Funds, and led Independent Newspapers, leaving an indelible mark on Irish business. O’Reilly’s diverse career spanned industries like food, crystal, oil, telecoms, and media, showing his entrepreneurial spirit. His philanthropic efforts with the Ireland Funds have continued to promote peace and reconciliation, making a lasting impact. Despite facing personal and financial challenges, Tony O’Reilly’s legacy endures through brands like…