Author: Juliette Gash
A recent revelation has shown that the security shelter next to the Department of Finance came with a hefty price tag of over €1.4 million. The Chairman of the OPW, John Conlon, disclosed this information at the Oireachtas Finance Committee, where he explained the extensive consultations and security considerations that went into installing the shelter. In addition to the significant costs for mechanical, electrical, and security components, there were underground, ventilation, and CCTV expenses that contributed to the total cost of €1.429m. Despite initial suggestions for a more cost-effective uncovered bike parking option at Leinster House, security advice led to…
Finance Minister Jack Chambers has firmly rejected the idea of abolishing inheritance tax, stating that it would not be fair to do so. This comes in response to former Justice Minister Alan Shatter’s campaign to eliminate the tax. Currently, children can inherit up to €335,000 from their parents tax-free, with anything above that amount being taxed at a rate of 33%. Minister Chambers believes that maintaining capital acquisitions tax is essential for a balanced economy that promotes fairness and equity. While acknowledging the need to address thresholds due to rising property prices, he emphasized that completely abolishing the tax would…
People Before Profit-Solidarity is gearing up for the new Dáil term with a ‘think-in’ in Dublin, focusing on housing and special education. Richard Boyd Barrett, spokesperson on Housing and Further Education, emphasized the need to address the housing crisis, citing the failure of the Coalition’s housing strategy. The party aims to double the output of social and affordable housing, reinstate the eviction ban, and implement rent controls. Additionally, they will tackle the issue of special needs and special education, aiming to address the lack of school places for vulnerable children and the long waiting times for assessments and therapies. PBP-Solidarity…
Last night, the Taoiseach playfully teased businesspeople about the upcoming general election date, sparking speculation among the public. Simon Harris, speaking to IBEC, hinted at a potential election sooner rather than later, despite assurances from party leaders that the Government would complete its term until March. As Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil race to select candidates by the end of September, signs point to a possible November election. Fine Gael has chosen 41 candidates, aiming to meet the 40% female quota, while Fianna Fáil has 36 candidates, including 15 women. The Green Party, recovering from Eamon Ryan’s departure, aims to…
Authorities have made an arrest near Thornton Hall in north county Dublin, a location designated for housing International Protection applicants. The woman, aged in her 50s, is facing charges of public order offenses and will be appearing in court today. Gardaí were assisting International Protection Accommodation Services and contractors to access the site for asylum seekers. Contrary to rumors, the gardaí emphasized that there was no secretive movement of applicants to the site. Construction work has commenced at Thornton Hall despite delays caused by protests earlier. The site aims to initially house 40 individuals in September, with a capacity to…
Woman Arrested Near Thornton Hall in Dublin A woman in her 50s has been arrested near Thornton Hall in north Dublin, a site earmarked as accommodation for International Protection applicants. She is facing charges of public order offences and will appear in court tomorrow. Gardaí were assisting International Protection Accommodation Services and contractors to enter the site as part of plans to use Thornton Hall for asylum seekers. Addressing misinformation, gardaí denied any secret transfers of international protection applicants to the site. Protests have delayed the commencement of work at Thornton Hall, but “enabling works” started today to prepare the…
Exciting news on the political front as popular TV presenter Gráinne Seoige looks set to enter the political arena by seeking Fianna Fáil’s nomination to run in Galway West in the upcoming general election. Eamon O’Cuiv, the outgoing TD for the constituency, confirmed that he had received a call from Ms Seoige expressing her intention to seek the party’s nomination. With nominations opening tomorrow, the race is heating up as at least four candidates are expected to vie for the nomination in Galway West. Mr. O’Cuiv remained neutral, stating that all potential candidates have a fair chance, leaving the decision…
The National Cyber Security Centre has reported a 20% increase in significant cyber security incidents, with most incidents being caused by failures in software or hardware. Director Richard Browne stated that 90% of incidents are due to failures rather than malicious activity. However, espionage remains a concern, with organized theft of information from governmental and academic institutions. The Centre has published a National Cyber Emergency Plan, detailing response protocols for serious cyber-attacks. The plan outlines three modes of operation: Permanent, Warning, and Full Activation Mode. In the event of a cyber emergency, the plan dictates the involvement of various government…
Sinn Féin’s Alternative Homes Plan aims to deliver 50,000 affordable homes within five years, bringing property ownership back within reach for working people. The €13.2 billion plan focuses on providing affordable homes for those who earn too much for social housing, yet cannot afford current market prices. According to Sinn Féin, these homes could cost between €250,000 to €300,000, with all land and related costs covered by the State. Additionally, the party plans to offer rental homes at or below €1,000 per month. Sinn Féin’s proposal challenges the government’s skepticism about the feasibility of delivering affordable homes at €300,000. The…
Exciting news for 29,000 children in 168 new primary schools as they will have access to hot school meals starting in September. This expansion brings the total number of schools in the scheme to 2,200 across the country. Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys is hopeful that all remaining primary schools will be included by Budget 2025. While the scheme has faced some criticism regarding the nutrition content of the food and waste packaging, it has been widely welcomed. Barnardos National Policy Manager Stephen Moffatt called the Hot School Meals program “extremely positive,” noting that it improves concentration, aids in…