Hello,
Our main news piece reveals that this morning witnessed the third removal of tents from the Grand Canal in Dublin. The recurring tent clearouts exemplify the stagnation prevalent in the Govt’s immigration and housing policies. The State is able to displace individuals and source temporary accommodation. However, there is failure in handling incoming immigrants in an effective manner and in finding adequate living quarters. This is a pressing matter not just from a humanitarian perspective, as highlighted by the sharp criticism from NGOs and human rights bodies in court and news channels, but it is also a significant political concern. Taoiseach Simon Harris, following his assumption of the role, has prioritised immigration, highlights the changing government stance that has arguably characterised his short tenure.
Harris’s focus on the immigration issue is telling, as this debate has significantly shaped the political landscape in various democracies across Europe. Quoting the Danish approach, Jack Power’s report suggests that an efficient response from mainstream political parties may be a crucial factor in thwarting the growth of radical and extremist groups.
In Ireland, there has been a decrease in the numbers of those seeking international protection, possibly indicating a slight reduction in pressure on the State. However, to weaken extremist elements as the country edges towards the polls, Harris will need to demonstrate substantial and enduring changes in the area of immigration, and in a prompt manner.
In other news, the much-anticipated UK election in five weeks, seen through the lens of Dublin, offers Labour leader Keir Starmer a chance to implement a long-overdue strategic shift with London, almost ten years in the waiting, following his projected ascent to the 10 Downing Street premier post. This move is imperative, particularly after the Brexit battles and the spring’s immigration disagreement causing a temporary setback in the lukewarm détente between the two sides.
Keir Starmer’s ‘devotion’ for and understanding of Ireland are examined by our London-based correspondents Finn McRedmond and Mark Paul. Ireland’s recent history considered, it’s undoubtedly a positive starting point. Surely, things can only pick up from here?
Suggested Reading
Miriam Lord gives an absorbing account of the surprising Dáil proceedings, filled with music, Russian mockery, and the overwhelming Taoiseach attention from the past Wednesday.
The topic creating a buzz around town this month is the European Union crackdown on noxious bacon snacks and other tasty treats, for which Jack Power brings you the latest scoop. Harry McGee is hitting the campaign trail alongside Kathleen Funchion in the southern territories of Ireland.
Over in Dublin, the city is abuzz as Justine McCarthy rubs shoulders with the centrist left. Meanwhile, Newton Emerson has sage wisdom to share, cautioning those chasing Irish unity against falling into the same negotiation blunders as the Brexiteer campaigners.
Here’s how the schedule looks like for the day: The morning action begins with Catherine Martin and Darragh O’Brien handling oral enquiries from 9.30am, leading up to the Leaders’ Questions at noon. Pre-lunch will witness queries on policies or legislation, post-which, government tasks will focus on legislation for fluctuating social welfare rates for newly jobless workers with long-term service. Private Members’ time slot will be dedicated to discussion on Marc Ó Cathasaigh’s proposal for creating a Future Generations Commission.
For complete schedule perusal, click here.
The scene at the Seanad commences at 9.30 am with introductory business matters. The morning session will also see a motion discussion on Parent’s Leave, post which the Seanad will recess at 12.30pm. The full daily agenda is right here.
The PAC engages in committee hearings at 9.30 am where a new series of blame games and agonised reactions to the National Children’s Hospital and its inevitable latest delays are set to ensue. Concurrently, the Good Friday committee will deliberate on women and constitutional alterations in the morning, and following lunch, the public petitions committee convenes.
In other news, Mary Lou McDonald from Sinn Féin will present their European election manifesto at Temple Bar around 9.30 am. The day will also see Roderic O’Gorman responding to enquiries at Bloom at 6:30 pm, while Brussels will host Peter Burke for a media interview. Meanwhile, Darragh O’Brien will be inaugurating a new housing project in Dublin later in the afternoon.
Wrapping up the day, Prime Time will be facilitating a debate featuring candidates for the European constituency of southern Ireland on Thursday evening.