Following the European Parliament’s decision to toughen the borders of the bloc, Ireland has decided to revamp its asylum system. In a bid to replace International Protection Act 2015, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee announced the introduction of legally enforceable time limits for deciding on international protection applications and appeals.
In other news, a court martial was informed that a former member of the Defence Forces sexually assaulted colleagues and made inappropriate remarks after a drinking session in his room escalated into an argument. Today, Taoiseach Simon Harris will meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels to discuss Ireland’s plans to formally acknowledge Palestine.
In food safety news, last month, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) issued ten enforcement orders against various food businesses for reasons including fresh rat faeces, a “surge of contaminated water” in production areas, and dirt on kitchen walls, equipment, and surfaces. Meanwhile, the Catholic Church has kicked off its downsizing process in Western Ireland as church attendance dwindles; this process has seen the checkdown of six Catholic dioceses in Connacht to three.
Globally, US President Joe Biden has affirmed that the United States will continue to staunchly support Israel, especially in light of increasing fears of an Iranian attack. This assurance comes amid apprehension in Washington that Iran could initiate a “significant” retaliation for the bomb attack on its consulate in Damascus.
Lastly, a problematic question raised by a reader named Ann to Pricewatch has cast doubts on the legality of Dunnes Stores, one of the Republic’s largest retailers, in their handling of returns.
Observations
– There’s a rising cultural conflict which Finn McRedmond attributes to the recent solar eclipse.
– According to Newton Emerson, it’s high time a discussion arises about limiting foreign purchasers from acquiring homes.
Business
– Critics label flying taxis as a fanciful diversion from real transportation solutions. People from the 60s era, thanks to the introductory scene of the Jetsons cartoon – where George Jetson drops his children to school before heading for his job – are believed to have been inspired to dream of operating flying vehicles in their adulthood.
Sports
– Rory McIlroy is eager to grab the limelight at Augusta. However, everyone’s attention is focused on Scottie Scheffler. Each of the 89 participants of the 88th Masters has entered Magnolia Lane from Washington Road via Gate 3. They have been driving courtesy cars from Mercedes, powered by electricity, directed towards the colonial clubhouse by a private security officer.
Life & Style
– Michael Harding compares the glamour of Bundoran streets to those in Las Vegas. He recently savoured a cup of coffee at the Buoys and Gulls cafe in Bundoran, while appreciating the breathtaking ocean view from the windows.