More than 1,600 members of Ireland’s Defence Forces have successfully secured compensation for working excessive hours, following claims of Working Time Directive (WTD) violations. The compensation settlements address cases dating back to 2014, marking a significant victory for military personnel. PDForra, the association representing enlisted Defence Forces members, spearheaded the legal campaign and has successfully … Read more
The European Union has withdrawn a controversial rule change that would have blocked elderly homeowners from receiving grants to replace broken oil and gas boilers, following significant criticism from advocacy groups. The decision ensures continued support for older people facing heating system failures in their homes. The original rule change, which would have affected private … Read more
The Irish government is preparing to announce a significant increase in housing funding next week, coinciding with discussions on the updated National Planning Framework (NPF) at the first Cabinet subcommittee meeting on housing. The newly established housing subcommittee, comprising key government figures including the Taoiseach, Tánaiste, housing minister, and finance minister, will convene on Monday … Read more
The Land Development Agency (LDA) has announced plans to deliver 607 cost rental apartments in Seven Mills in Dublin 22. Developed in partnership with Cairn, the apartments are already under construction in Seven Mills, a new town emerging along the Grand Canal between Clondalkin and Lucan. All units will be designated as cost rental homes, … Read more
Teachers at Synge Street CBS in Dublin 8 are pushing back against Department of Education plans to convert their school into a Gaelcholáiste, with 91% of staff opposing the transition scheduled for 2026. The controversy emerged after teachers were informed of the decision just one day before its public announcement in September 2024. The Association … Read more
Irish Rail has launched an investigation following a collision between two trains at Westport station that occurred late Monday night. The incident involved a freight train carrying timber wagons and a stationary out-of-service passenger train. The crash, which took place during a “low-speed shunting movement,” caused significant damage to the passenger train, particularly affecting the … Read more
Bank of Ireland has announced a 0.25 per cent reduction in interest rates for its 12 and 18-month fixed-term deposit accounts, effective from February 18. The bank, however, confirmed that there will be no changes to other savings products, including the SuperSaver regular savings account, Advantage 6-month Fixed Term deposit, Notice Deposit account, Instant Access … Read more
Ireland’s defense spending has been identified as the lowest among 38 European nations, according to a new study that highlights significant gaps between Ireland’s military investment and that of other European states, including neutral countries. The research reveals that Ireland’s defense expenditure falls below that of other militarily neutral nations such as Austria and Switzerland, … Read more
Migrant healthcare assistants (HCAs) gathered outside the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to demand urgent reforms to work permit earnings rules, which they say are keeping them separated from their families. Under the current system, many migrant HCAs earn below the income threshold required to apply for family reunification. Workers have also pointed to … Read more
Lidl Ireland has announced a €600 million investment strategy over the next five years, including 35 new stores and a €200 million regional distribution centre in Cork to enhance its logistical infrastructure in the south and southeast. Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, Robert Ryan, CEO of Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, confirmed plans to open … Read more
An Post has unveiled two new commemorative stamps marking the 150th anniversary of the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU). The stamps feature action shots combining both professional athletes and young club players, representing the breadth of Irish rugby from grassroots to international level. The stamps include images of: International players Josh van der Flier and … Read more
Arts Minister Patrick O’Donovan has expressed being “desperately angry” following revelations that the Arts Council spent €6.6 million on an IT system that was never implemented. The Government has now ordered a review into the organization’s culture and governance in response to this significant financial waste. The Minister is seeking Cabinet approval to launch an … Read more
Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow rain warning for Cork as Ireland braces for wet and windy weather conditions. The warning will be in effect from 1pm today until 8am tomorrow, with particular concerns about spot flooding along the south coast. Today’s forecast details: Morning: Mostly cloudy with light rain or drizzle in Munster … Read more
The Minister for Education has announced plans to streamline the application process for special education placements through a new common application system. This significant change aims to simplify what has traditionally been a complex and stressful process for families seeking special education places for their children. Under the current system, families often find themselves making … Read more
A major new report by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has recommended allowing rents to be freely adjusted between tenancies, marking a significant shift from current restrictions. The report comes as the Government reviews existing rent limits amid concerns that they are deterring institutional investors from funding new housing projects. Currently, Rent … Read more