Author: Juliette Gash
Michael Ring to retire from politics after 30 years After three decades in politics, Fine Gael TD for Mayo Michael Ring has announced that he will not be contesting the next general election. This decision comes as 15 Fine Gael deputies elected in 2020 have also chosen not to run again. Throughout his career, Deputy Ring has served as a local councillor, a member of the Dáil, and a Minister for Rural and Community Development. He expressed gratitude for the support he has received over the years and highlighted his achievements in projects such as the Gathering and the Wild…
Hotel owners are up in arms over proposed increases to the TV licence fee for commercial premises with multiple televisions. The Irish government is considering maintaining the €160 licence fee, with adjustments, while also providing multi-annual funding to RTE. This move is facing backlash from the Irish Hotels Federation, who argue that hospitality businesses are already burdened with rising costs. Businesses currently pay a flat fee regardless of the number of televisions on their premises, but new proposals suggest tiered fees based on the number of screens. Minister of State James Lawless is exploring ways to improve compliance and increase…
Ursula von der Leyen faces a crucial vote in the European Parliament today as she seeks to secure her position as Commission President. The outcome of the vote, which requires a majority of 361 votes, remains uncertain, despite outward support from key groupings. The secretive nature of the ballot adds intrigue to the proceedings, with potential for surprises in MEP voting behavior. Von der Leyen’s past actions, particularly regarding her stance on Gaza and Israel, have stirred controversy among certain MEPs. As lobbying intensifies and alliances shift, the potential consequences of von der Leyen’s re-election extend to the allocation of…
The recent case of Private Cathal Crotty, who received a suspended sentence for knocking a woman unconscious, has sparked outrage and united protests across Ireland. Supporters rallied behind Natasha O’Brien, condemning the attack and demanding justice. Politicians, including the Taoiseach and Justice Minister, voiced their support for survivors of gender-based violence and emphasized the need for judicial training and sentencing guidelines. Dr. Laura Cahillane from the University of Limerick defended Simon Harris’s comments, stating the importance of ongoing work in this area. Meanwhile, a report revealed that 68 Defense Forces personnel have been convicted or faced charges for various offenses,…
Defence Forces Members Convicted of Offences: The Call for Change Recently, it was revealed that 68 members of the Defence Forces have been convicted or are currently facing charges for various offences. This information was shared with Tánaiste and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin, in a report from Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Seán Clancy. Concerned about the culture within the Defence Forces, Mr. Martin is adamant that individuals convicted of serious physical assaults, sexual offences, or domestic violence should not be allowed to remain in active service. After recent cases brought this issue to light, he requested a report…
Taoiseach Simon Harris is set to attend the British-Irish Council summit on the Isle of Man, focusing on renewable energy. This summit holds particular significance as it is the first since 2021 where the First and Deputy First Ministers of Northern Ireland will be represented. Representing the Government alongside Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien, the delegates will discuss ways to unlock economic and social opportunities through renewables across the islands. Established in 1999 as part of the Good Friday Agreement, the BIC is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Chief Minister of the Isle of Man, Alfred Cannan MHK, expressed…
The Citizens’ Assembly on Drugs Use Calls for Government Action The Citizens’ Assembly on Drugs Use expressed disappointment that their recommendations have not been implemented, as shared during a recent meeting with the Joint Committee on Drugs Use. Chaired by Paul Reid, the assembly highlighted the ongoing issue of drug-related intimidation and violence inflicted by organized crime gangs across Ireland, particularly affecting vulnerable young people. Emphasizing the need to break the cycle of criminality associated with drug use, Mr. Reid urged the government to act swiftly, citing the slow pace of change. The assembly proposed adopting a health-led approach and…
Ryanair Calls for Removal of Dublin Airport Passenger Cap Ryanair is pushing for the removal of what it calls a “bogus” passenger cap at Dublin Airport, which the airline claims is leading to a loss of routes, traffic, and jobs this summer. CEO Michael O’Leary recently appeared before the Oireachtas Transport Committee to discuss the issue, highlighting that the current cap of 32 million passengers annually is hindering growth opportunities. O’Leary emphasized that the cap is causing Ireland to fall behind other EU countries and airports, resulting in missed opportunities for increased routes, traffic, and job creation. He noted that…
Exciting Elections Ahead: What You Need to Know Mark your calendars for Friday 7 June- a day packed with elections in Ireland! On this day, voters will cast their ballots for the European Parliament Elections, Local Elections, and the first directly elected Mayor of Limerick. The European Parliament Elections will see 14 MEPs chosen to represent Ireland, with each constituency having a unique set of candidates. In addition, 949 seats are up for grabs in the local councils, with over 2,100 candidates in the running. Did you know that you do not have to be an Irish or European citizen…
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the business landscape in Ireland, with only 2% of businesses fully operationalizing responsible AI, according to the Head of Accenture Ireland, Hillary O’Meara. This gap highlights the importance of adopting responsible AI practices to navigate the unique considerations of generative AI. Consultancy firms such as EY Ireland and PwC Ireland emphasized the benefits and risks associated with AI adoption. They emphasized the need for responsible and futureproofed adoption to avoid potential pitfalls and comply with new regulations such as the EU’s AI Act. Despite the potential benefits of AI, concerns were raised by Sinn…