Morning News Briefing – Ireland
March 18, 2023
Irish Times
- Children Join National Education Debate: For the first time, children will be full members of Ireland’s Convention on Education, which begins this weekend. The panel of 150 members will shape the future of primary and post-primary education.
- Cockfighting Arrest in Monaghan: Gardaí arrested a man in his 70s in connection with an illegal cockfighting event in 2024. Investigations are ongoing.
- Gerry Adams Case Dropped: A civil case against former Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams, brought by three victims of IRA bombings in England, has been discontinued. Adams criticized the case as a "show trial."
- Global Money-Laundering Ring Leaders Jailed: Two men, described as the "colonel" and "major" of a sophisticated money-laundering syndicate, were sentenced to nine and 7.5 years in prison by Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
- Life Sentence for Brutal Murder: A man was sentenced to life imprisonment for the violent murder of his friend, Juris Kokenbergs, in response to an insult. The victim’s family shared their grief in court.
- Tributes to Dolores Keane: Hundreds, including President Catherine Connolly and former President Michael D. Higgins, attended the funeral of legendary folk singer Dolores Keane in Galway. She was remembered for her music and courage in facing illness.
- HSE Criticized Over Vulnerable Child: A Dublin judge warned the HSE that it would have "blood on their hands" if a vulnerable child in State care is not hospitalized for urgent psychiatric treatment by Monday.
- Waterford Balcony Fall Injures Two Children: A mother recounted the terrifying moment her two young children fell from a second-floor balcony after its glass shattered. Both children are recovering.
Irish Independent
- Gerry Adams Welcomes Case Withdrawal: Gerry Adams expressed relief after a High Court damages claim by three IRA bombing victims was dropped. He stated the case "should never have been brought."
- Energy Crisis Worsens Amid Middle East Conflict: The International Energy Agency warns of a severe energy shock due to the Middle East conflict, urging countries to reduce energy demand by promoting remote work and public transport.
- Meath Home Demolition Underway: A house in Meath, built without planning permission, is being demolished after a 20-year legal battle. The homeowner said she cannot afford to pay for the demolition.
- Dolores Keane Laid to Rest: The iconic Irish folk singer was remembered as a "wonderful ambassador" for Irish culture during her funeral in Galway.
- Fuel Prices Spike: Irish motorists face rising fuel costs due to disruptions in global supply chains caused by Middle East tensions.
- ‘Epstein Files’ Parade Float Controversy: Fathers of teenagers involved in creating a controversial St. Patrick’s Day parade float referencing Jeffrey Epstein defended their sons, calling it a "bit of fun."
- Demi Isaac Oviawe Reflects on Loss: Actress and broadcaster Demi Isaac Oviawe, who lost both parents to cancer, shared her story ahead of Daffodil Day, emphasizing the importance of support for cancer patients.
Stay informed and have a great day!