Author: Eithne Dodd
The Dangers of HHC: A New Cannabis Substitute on the Rise in Ireland Semi-Synthetic Cannabis: The College of Psychiatrists of Ireland has issued a warning regarding the urgent need for the Government to ban the distribution and sale of a semi-synthetic cannabis drug known as Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). This man-made drug, chemically similar to the active ingredient THC found in cannabis, has been causing severe psychosis and addiction in Ireland. Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Professor Bobby Smyth highlighted the growing presence of HHC in adolescent addiction services, with about 20% of all presentations involving this dangerous substance. Prof Smyth emphasized…
The National Women’s Council of Ireland is advocating for a publicly-funded early childhood education and care system alongside private services to address the childcare crisis. Several childcare providers have opted out of the Government’s core funding scheme, leading to increased fees for parents or the search for alternative options, including leaving the workforce, predominantly affecting women. One such provider, Helen McGoldrick, recently closed her pre-school service, KidStart in Lucan, due to financial strain and excessive workload resulting from minimal core funding. McGoldrick emphasized the need for a more sustainable solution for childcare support in Ireland. The NWC proposes a publicly-funded…
Experts have expressed concern over the 25% decline in electric vehicle (EV) sales in Ireland this year, as only 12,765 EVs were licensed from January to July. The country currently has around 125,000 EVs on the road, but the government aims to have 845,000 by 2030 to meet climate targets. Professor Brian Caulfield highlighted the significant role EVs play in reducing emissions and stated that the current trend is worrying. Despite challenges with public perception and infrastructure, EVs remain crucial for emissions reduction in the transport sector. Chairperson of the Irish Electric Vehicle Association, Matthew Sealy, emphasized the need for…
Colin Barrett, author of the acclaimed novel Wild Houses, was pleasantly surprised to find his debut novel longlisted for the 2024 Booker Prize. He shared that he had not anticipated this recognition and was simply proud of his work. Barrett, hailing from the West of Ireland, highlighted the theme of community in his novel, set in Ballina, County Mayo. Wild Houses revolves around Dev, a reclusive young man, who finds himself entangled in a crime committed by his cousins. The story shifts between Dev and Nicky, the girlfriend of the kidnapped victim, offering a unique perspective on the unfolding events.…
The Irish Prison Service has issued an urgent drug alert due to the presence of a dangerous nitazene-type drug in prisons. Nitazine, known for its association with overdoses, has been circulating widely, posing a significant risk to individuals. The tablets, often yellow in color and mistaken for benzodiazepines, do not contain the safer alternative, leading to potential overdoses and fatalities. Reports of overdoses in various regions indicate the growing threat of Nitazine, with concerns raised by HSE National Clinical Lead of Addiction Services, Professor Eamon Keenan. The recent surge in overdoses, particularly among homeless individuals in Dublin, highlights the urgent…
Ellea McGovern and her boyfriend rescued an XL bully dog and developed a strong bond with the breed. They now have six adult XL bully dogs and a litter of 13 puppies. Despite their love for the dogs, Ms. McGovern is struggling to find homes for the puppies in her litter as people have misconceptions about the breed’s temperament. XL bully dogs have often been viewed as intimidating, but Ms. McGovern believes that with proper care and affection, they can be gentle and loving companions. She highlighted how her dogs enjoy playing with children, dispelling the notion of them being…
The Green Party is gearing up for a leadership change as Eamon Ryan recently announced his resignation. Ahead of the transition, party members are calling for the next leader to strike a balance between everyday life concerns and climate change initiatives. Cork City councillor Oliver Moran emphasized the need for Green Party policies that address issues like public transport fees and childcare costs to resonate with the public. He endorsed Minister for Children and Integration Roderic O’Gorman or Dublin Central TD Neasa Hourigan as potential leaders, citing their resilience and dedication. Dublin City councillor Janet Horner stressed the importance of…
Exciting news for Palestinians living in Ireland as the country is set to formally recognize the Palestinian state along with Spain and Norway on 28 May. Ibrahim Abu Shaban, a computer science student residing in Blanchardstown, expressed his joy and hope upon hearing this announcement, calling it a “strong symbol of hope” for Palestinians. For Mona Sabella, the recognition of Palestine by Ireland holds emotional significance and highlights the need for tangible actions such as sanctions on Israel. Many Palestinians have felt a strong sense of solidarity from the people of Ireland since the recent conflict in Gaza. Sahar Hawamdeh,…