An anticipated report on historical sexual abuse in boarding and day schools is due to be published by the government, who are also anticipated to sanction an official inquiry into thousands of possible abuse cases. The report was debated last night by the heads of the three governing parties and Education Minister Norma Foley, who is set to bring her proposals to the Cabinet today in its first meeting post summer recess. Foley and her team have been studying the 700-page report, compiled last year by senior counsel Mary O’Toole, following allegations of past abuse at Blackrock College.
News from Ireland follows:
– Reports indicate that one in four primary school children and slightly above one-fifth secondary school students have been negatively affected by issues such as scams, harassment, horror or pornographic material on the internet.
– Residents have expressed their anger in a public meeting about proposals for a feeder service on the Howth Dart line by Irish Rail, which could result in the discontinuation of direct Howth Dart services.
– A prohibition on bin bags is scheduled to be implemented in Dublin’s city centre this month in an effort to decrease the spreading litter caused by torn plastic waste bags on city streets.
– Waterways Ireland is tackling more than 430 unsanctioned developments, including a few large-scale marinas, along inland waterways, in line with a new five-year scheme to regulate constructions next to rivers and lakes.
– Weather update: Morning foggy conditions are predicted to clear quickly. The day is expected to be mostly overcast with intermittent periods of rain or drizzle and occasional sunny breaks. The evening might see more sunshine, especially in the country’s east and south, with top temperatures ranging between 15 to 18 degrees in mild northwesterly winds.
It’s a harsh reality that mental illness carries a strong stigma among Travellers, potentially leading to escalating complications. The varnish of taboo means many ailments remain untreated, and for some, diagnosis doesn’t offer any certainty of help, as exposed by Shauna Bowers.
Commentary:
Fintan O’Toole comments on how the cataract bus epitomises great Irish innovations, born out of neglect and clientalism. Meanwhile, Eamon Ryan warns that should predicted disruptions to Atlantic ocean circulation prove accurate, the Irish populace may face becoming climate refugees.
Business:
Despite the increased implementation of renewables, over 80% of Ireland’s energy was still derived from fossil fuels last year, as reported by the Irish Sustainable Energy Authority.
Sports:
On the 6th day of the Paralympics, Irish athletes took centre stage along with other notable performances. Ellen Keane (29), representing Team Ireland, completed her final Paralympic appearance in the S9 100m backstroke.
International News:
A harrowing war in Sudan has seen hunger weaponised, as stated by humanitarian groups. Over 500 days into a brutal conflict between the Sudanese army and Rapid Support Forces that began in April 2023, organisations like the Danish Refugee Council, Mercy Corps and the Norwegian Refugee Council report that hunger is the principal source of torment throughout the nation.
In a lighter note, Qareeb Urrahman, who migrated from Afghanistan to Ireland in 2021, expresses his affection for the country. He makes a stark comparison between his homeland and Ireland, praising the latter for its peaceful and calm nature.
Podcast Highlights:
News coverage continues in the podcast, with contents to be confirmed.