CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html><html lang="en"><head><script data-integration="inlineScripts"> (function() { var _sf_async_config = window._sf_async_config = (window._sf_async_config || {}); _sf_async_config.uid = 31036; _sf_async_config.domain = "irishtimes.com"; _sf_async_config.useCanonical = true; _sf_async_config.useCanonicalDomain = true; _sf_async_config.sections = "politics"; _sf_async_config.flickerControl = false; var _cbq = window._cbq = (window._cbq || []); const OT = document.cookie.split('; ').find(row => row.startsWith('blaize_jwt')); if (OT) { _cbq.push(['_acct', 'paid']); } else { _cbq.push(['_acct', 'anon']); } })(); ; var _comscore = _comscore || []; _comscore.push({ c1: "2", c2: "8946263" }); ;gtmParamsString='';if(new RegExp("^https://irishtimes.arcpublishing.com", "i").test(window.location)){gtmParamsString='&gtm_auth=om4Ly4wwqa_7E-fLbBv46g&gtm_preview=env-6&gtm_cookies_win=x'};(function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl+gtmParamsString;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-NRHQKJ4');; window.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', (event) => { queryly.init("954cd8bb239245f9", document.querySelectorAll("#fusion-app")); }); ;window.isIE = !!window.MSInputMethodContext && !!document.documentMode;</script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0002" async="" data-integration="chartbeat" src="https://static.chartbeat.com/js/chartbeat.js"></script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0002" async="" src="https://static.chartbeat.com/js/chartbeat_mab.js"></script><script>!function(n,e,i){if(!n){n=n||{},window.permutive=n,n.q=[],n.config=i||{},n.config.apiKey=e,n.config.environment=n.config.environment||"production";for(var o=["addon","identify","track","trigger","query","segment","segments","ready","on","once","user","consent"],r=0;r<o.length;r++){var t=o[r];n[t]=function(e){return function(){var i=Array.prototype.slice.call(arguments,0);n.q.push({functionName:e,arguments:i})}}(t)}}}(window.permutive, "4888a725-f640-4782-bd70-a3dd37877c2f", { "consentRequired": true }); window.googletag=window.googletag||{},window.googletag.cmd=window.googletag.cmd||[],window.googletag.cmd.push(function(){if(0===window.googletag.pubads().getTargeting("permutive").length){var g=window.localStorage.getItem("_pdfps");window.googletag.pubads().setTargeting("permutive",g?JSON.parse(g):[])}});</script><script async="" src="https://fce2b75e-f11a-48ad-a60f-7e004eb1d340.edge.permutive.app/fce2b75e-f11a-48ad-a60f-7e004eb1d340-web.js"></script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0002-C0004">window.addEventListener('OneTrustGroupsUpdated', function() { if (document.cookie.indexOf("OptanonAlertBoxClosed=") >=0 && OptanonActiveGroups.match(/(?=.*,C0002,)(?=.*,C0004,).*/)) { const OTConsentToken = document.cookie .split('; ') .find(row => row.startsWith('OptanonConsent=')) .split('&') .find(row => row.startsWith('consentId')) .split('=')[1]; permutive.consent({ "opt_in": true, "token": OTConsentToken }); } else{ permutive.consent({ "opt_in": false }); } });</script><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1"/><link rel="icon" type="image/x-icon" href="/pf/resources/favicon.ico?d=173"/><title>Politics | The Irish Times</title><meta name="description" content="The latest political news, comment and analysis brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."/><meta property="og:description" content="The latest political news, comment and analysis brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."/><meta name="twitter:description" content="The latest political news, comment and analysis brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."/><meta property="og:title" content="Politics - The Irish Times"/><meta name="twitter:title" content="Politics - The Irish Times"/><meta property="og:image" content="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.themebuilder.aws.arc.pub%2Firishtimes%2F1647534191476.png?auth=631eeaa12e7a61c005c8eb0bbf348f785c131b10c4d6b25c28247a15965b5a36&width=1200"/><meta property="og:image:alt" content="Politics - The Irish Times"/><meta name="twitter:image" content="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fstatic.themebuilder.aws.arc.pub%2Firishtimes%2F1647534191476.png?auth=631eeaa12e7a61c005c8eb0bbf348f785c131b10c4d6b25c28247a15965b5a36&width=1200"/><meta name="twitter:image:alt" content="Politics - The Irish Times"/><meta property="og:site_name" content="The Irish Times"/><meta name="twitter:site" content="@IrishTimes"/><meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/><link rel="canonical" href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/"/><link rel="alternate" hrefLang="en-IE" href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/"/><link id="fusion-template-styles" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="/pf/dist/components/combinations/default.css?d=173"/><link id="fusion-siteStyles-styles" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="/pf/dist/css/irishtimes.css?d=173"/><style data-styled="" data-styled-version="5.3.5">.gKEhzJ .arcad > [id^='google_ads_iframe']:not(:empty){max-width:100%;}/*!sc*/ .gKEhzJ .arcad > [id^='google_ads_iframe']:not(:empty)::before{content:'ADVERTISEMENT';display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;font-family:star-font,'Roboto',sans-serif;}/*!sc*/ .gKEhzJ .arcad > [id^='google_ads_iframe']:empty[style]{width:0 !important;height:0 !important;}/*!sc*/ .kjbLvz .arcad > [id^='google_ads_iframe']:not(:empty){max-width:100%;}/*!sc*/ .kjbLvz .arcad > [id^='google_ads_iframe']:not(:empty)::before{content:'ADVERTISEMENT';display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;font-family:star-font,'Roboto',sans-serif;display:none;}/*!sc*/ .kjbLvz .arcad > [id^='google_ads_iframe']:empty[style]{width:0 !important;height:0 !important;}/*!sc*/ data-styled.g5[id="default__StyledAdUnit-sc-1moicrg-0"]{content:"gKEhzJ,kjbLvz,"}/*!sc*/ </style><script type="application/javascript" id="polyfill-script">if(!Array.prototype.includes||!(window.Object && window.Object.assign)||!window.Promise||!window.Symbol||!window.fetch){document.write('<script type="application/javascript" src="/pf/dist/engine/polyfill.js?d=173" defer=""><\/script>')}</script><script id="fusion-engine-react-script" type="application/javascript" src="/pf/dist/engine/react.js?d=173" defer=""></script><script id="fusion-engine-combinations-script" type="application/javascript" src="/pf/dist/components/combinations/default.js?d=173" defer=""></script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0004" async="" data-integration="nativo-ad" src="https://s.ntv.io/serve/load.js"></script><script type="text/plain" class="optanon-category-C0002" async="" data-integration="comscore" src="https://sb.scorecardresearch.com/beacon.js"></script><script defer="" data-integration="queryly" src="https://www.queryly.com/js/queryly.v4.min.js"></script><script id="xtreme-push" type="text/javascript"> (function(p,u,s,h,e,r,l,i,b) {p['XtremePushObject']=s;p[s]=function(){ (p[s].q=p[s].q||[]).push(arguments)};i=u.createElement('script');i.async=1; i.src=h;b=u.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];b.parentNode.insertBefore(i,b); })(window,document,'xtremepush','https://prod.webpu.sh/tEEXuB8vRMsRMzIydjRZIQjnQzT-EXwR/sdk.js'); xtremepush('ready', function () { if (window.safari !== undefined) { const permission = xtremepush('push', 'permission'); const views = JSON.parse(localStorage.getItem('xtremepush.data'))?.page_views; const sendPush = views % 55 === 0 || views === 1; if ((permission === 'default' || !permission) && (permission !== 'unavailable' && permission !== 'denied' ) && sendPush) { xtremepush('event', 'User Gesture'); } } else { xtremepush('push', 'auto_prompt', true); } }); </script><script type="application/ld+json">{ "@context": "http://schema.org/", "@type": "Organization", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "postOfficeBoxNumber": "PO Box 74", "streetAddress": "24-28 Tara Street", "addressLocality": "Dublin 2", "addressRegion": "County Dublin", "addressCountry": "Ireland", "postalCode": "D02 CX89" }, "contactPoint": [ { "@type": "ContactPoint", "contactType": "Customer Support", "email": "services@irishtimes.com", "telephone": "+353 1 9203901" }, { "@type": "ContactPoint", "contactType": "Sales", "email": "mediasolutions@irishtimes.com", "telephone": "+353 1 5320978" }, { "@type": "ContactPoint", "contactType": "News Desk", "email": "newsdesk@irishtimes.com", "telephone": "" } ], "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "", "width": 1024, "height": 547 }, "name": "The Irish Times", "sameAs": [ "https://www.facebook.com/irishtimes/", "http://www.linkedin.com/company/the-irish-times", "https://www.youtube.com/user/IrishTimes", "https://twitter.com/IrishTimes" ], "url": "https://www.irishtimes.com" }</script><link rel="preconnect" href="https://fonts.googleapis.com"/><link rel="preconnect" href="https://fonts.gstatic.com" crossorigin=""/><link rel="stylesheet" href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Noto+Serif+JP:wght@400;700&family=Roboto:wght@400;700&display=swap"/><script> function PoWaReady() { // 0. DEFAULTS window.PoWaSettings = window.PoWaSettings || []; window.PoWaSettings.advertising = window.PoWaSettings.advertising || []; // 1. CookieBanner ONLOAD window.addEventListener("powaRender", function() { window.PoWaSettings.advertising.adBar = {skipOffset: 6}; if (typeof OptanonActiveGroups==="string" && OptanonActiveGroups.match(/(?=.*,C0002,).*/)) { // 2. Cookies Granted window.PoWaSettings.advertising.gdprConsentGranted = true; } else { // 3. Set Default value window.PoWaSettings.advertising.gdprConsentGranted = window.PoWaSettings.advertising.gdprConsentGranted || false; } }); // 4. CookieBanner ONCLICK window.addEventListener("OneTrustGroupsUpdated", function() { // 1. Set Default value window.PoWaSettings.advertising.gdprConsentGranted = !!OptanonActiveGroups.match(/(?=.,C0002,)./); }); // 5. DataLayer event window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; dataLayer.push({ "has_PoWaSettings_load": true, "event": "donewith_PoWaSettings" }); } var i = 0; function checkIsPoWaReady() { i = i + 1; if (typeof window.PoWaSettings==="object" && typeof OptanonActiveGroups==="string") { //stop the polling PoWaReady(); clearInterval(pollforPoWaReady); } else if (i > 500) { //give up after 5 sec clearInterval(pollforPoWaReady); } } // Start polling var pollforPoWaReady = setInterval(checkIsPoWaReady, 10); </script><script> const playFullScreen = (e) => { if (!!e.element.dataset.mobilefullscreen) { const windowWidth = document.querySelector('#fusion-app').offsetWidth || window.innerWidth; const mobileWidth = 733; if (windowWidth < mobileWidth) { if (!e.powa.isFullscreen()) { if (document.fullscreenEnabled) { // Set the PoWa element itself to fullscreen not the player, this overcomes an // issue with Android and fullscreen video rotation closing the video when the // device is rotated and the video is in fullscreen mode e.element.requestFullscreen(); return; } e.powa.fullscreen(); } } } } const mobilePoWaFullscreen = (event) => { const player = event.detail.powa; player.on('firstFrame', (e) => { playFullScreen(e); }); player.on('play', (e) => { // Delay calling our function 100ms to not have a race condition with the // firstFrame event setTimeout(() => { playFullScreen(e); }, 100); }); }; window.addEventListener('powaReady', mobilePoWaFullscreen); </script><script src="https://cdn.cookielaw.org/consent/tcf.stub.js" type="text/javascript"></script></head><body class="custom-it"><noscript data-integration="comscore"><img alt="comscore" src="https://sb.scorecardresearch.com/p?c1=2&c2=8946263&cv=2.0&cj=1"/></noscript><noscript><iframe src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/ns.html?id=GTM-NRHQKJ4" height="0" width="0" style="display:none;visibility:hidden"></iframe></noscript><div id="fusion-app"><div id="pw-zpr-modal"></div><div class="b-it-right-rail-advanced"><header class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__navigation page-header" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><nav id="main-nav" class="b-header-nav-chain " aria-label="Sections Menu"><div class="b-header-nav-chain__top-layout"><div class="b-header-nav-chain__nav-left"><div class="nav-components--mobile" data-testid="nav-chain-nav-components-mobile-left"><button data-testid="nav-chain-nav-section-button" aria-label="Sections" class="c-button c-button--small c-button--secondary-reverse" type="button"><svg class="c-icon" width="48" height="48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M25 96C25 78.33 39.33 64 57 64H441C458.7 64 473 78.33 473 96C473 113.7 458.7 128 441 128H57C39.33 128 25 113.7 25 96ZM25 256C25 238.3 39.33 224 57 224H441C458.7 224 473 238.3 473 256C473 273.7 458.7 288 441 288H57C39.33 288 25 273.7 25 256ZM441 448H57C39.33 448 25 433.7 25 416C25 398.3 39.33 384 57 384H441C458.7 384 473 398.3 473 416C473 433.7 458.7 448 441 448Z"></path></svg></button></div><div class="nav-components--desktop" data-testid="nav-chain-nav-components-desktop-left"><button aria-label="Search" class="c-button c-button--small c-button--secondary-reverse" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="48" height="48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M505 442.7L405.3 343c-4.5-4.5-10.6-7-17-7H372c27.6-35.3 44-79.7 44-128C416 93.1 322.9 0 208 0S0 93.1 0 208s93.1 208 208 208c48.3 0 92.7-16.4 128-44v16.3c0 6.4 2.5 12.5 7 17l99.7 99.7c9.4 9.4 24.6 9.4 33.9 0l28.3-28.3c9.4-9.4 9.4-24.6.1-34zM208 336c-70.7 0-128-57.2-128-128 0-70.7 57.2-128 128-128 70.7 0 128 57.2 128 128 0 70.7-57.2 128-128 128z"></path></svg></span></button><button data-testid="nav-chain-nav-section-button" aria-label="Sections" class="c-button c-button--small c-button--secondary-reverse" type="button"><span>Sections</span><svg class="c-icon" width="48" height="48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M25 96C25 78.33 39.33 64 57 64H441C458.7 64 473 78.33 473 96C473 113.7 458.7 128 441 128H57C39.33 128 25 113.7 25 96ZM25 256C25 238.3 39.33 224 57 224H441C458.7 224 473 238.3 473 256C473 273.7 458.7 288 441 288H57C39.33 288 25 273.7 25 256ZM441 448H57C39.33 448 25 433.7 25 416C25 398.3 39.33 384 57 384H441C458.7 384 473 398.3 473 416C473 433.7 458.7 448 441 448Z"></path></svg></button></div></div><a title="The Irish Times" class="c-link b-header-nav-chain__logo b-header-nav-chain__logo--center nav-logo-hidden svg-logo" href="/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img src="https://static.themebuilder.aws.arc.pub/irishtimes/1647534191733.svg" alt="The Irish Times" data-chromatic="ignore"/></a><div class="b-header-nav-chain__nav-right"><div class="nav-components--mobile" data-testid="nav-chain-nav-components-mobile-right"><div style="display:none" id="f0fe6HNJvtOK8J1-0-0-2" data-fusion-collection="features" data-fusion-type="signin-subscribe/default" data-fusion-message="Could not render component [features:signin-subscribe/default]"></div></div><div class="nav-components--desktop" data-testid="nav-chain-nav-components-desktop-right"><div id="fusion-static-enter:html-block-f0f1j0n1myTR7B9-0-0-0" style="display:none" data-fusion-component="html-block-f0f1j0n1myTR7B9-0-0-0"></div><div><iframe scrolling="no" id="fw-desktop" data-src="https://lw.foreca.com/v3/en/site/irishtimes/widget/?name=Dublin&id=102964574" style="width: 85px; height: 40px; border:0; margin: 0; display: flex; align-items: center;"></iframe></div><div id="fusion-static-exit:html-block-f0f1j0n1myTR7B9-0-0-0" style="display:none" data-fusion-component="html-block-f0f1j0n1myTR7B9-0-0-0"></div><div style="display:none" id="f0fe6HNJvtOK8J1-0-0-2" data-fusion-collection="features" data-fusion-type="signin-subscribe/default" data-fusion-message="Could not render component [features:signin-subscribe/default]"></div></div></div></div><div id="flyout-overlay" data-testid="nav-chain-flyout-overlay" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__flyout-overlay closed" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div><div class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__flyout-nav-wrapper closed" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="b-header-nav-chain__flyout-close-button"><button aria-label="Close" class="c-button c-button--small c-button--secondary-reverse" type="button"><svg class="c-icon" width="24" height="24" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M406.6 361.4C419.1 373.9 419.1 394.15 406.6 406.65C400.4 412.9 392.2 416 384 416C375.8 416 367.62 412.875 361.38 406.625L256 301.3L150.63 406.6C144.38 412.9 136.19 416 128 416C119.81 416 111.63 412.9 105.375 406.6C92.875 394.1 92.875 373.85 105.375 361.35L210.775 255.95L105.375 150.6C92.875 138.1 92.875 117.85 105.375 105.35C117.875 92.85 138.125 92.85 150.625 105.35L256 210.8L361.4 105.4C373.9 92.9 394.15 92.9 406.65 105.4C419.15 117.9 419.15 138.15 406.65 150.65L301.25 256.05L406.6 361.4Z"></path></svg></button></div><div class="nav-menu"><div data-testid="nav-chain-nav-components-mobile" class="c-stack nav-components--mobile" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div style="display:none" id="f0fcuF3rugfL8OV-0-0-1" data-fusion-collection="features" data-fusion-type="subscribe-button/default" data-fusion-message="Could not render component [features:subscribe-button/default]"></div><button aria-label="Search" class="c-button c-button--small c-button--secondary-reverse" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="48" height="48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M505 442.7L405.3 343c-4.5-4.5-10.6-7-17-7H372c27.6-35.3 44-79.7 44-128C416 93.1 322.9 0 208 0S0 93.1 0 208s93.1 208 208 208c48.3 0 92.7-16.4 128-44v16.3c0 6.4 2.5 12.5 7 17l99.7 99.7c9.4 9.4 24.6 9.4 33.9 0l28.3-28.3c9.4-9.4 9.4-24.6.1-34zM208 336c-70.7 0-128-57.2-128-128 0-70.7 57.2-128 128-128 70.7 0 128 57.2 128 128 0 70.7-57.2 128-128 128z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div data-testid="nav-chain-nav-components-desktop" class="c-stack nav-components--desktop" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"></div></div><ul class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__flyout-nav" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Home</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/latest/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Latest</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/subscriber-only/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Subscriber Only</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/crosswords-puzzles" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Crosswords & Puzzles</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_crosswords-puzzles" aria-label="Show Crosswords & Puzzles sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_crosswords-puzzles"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crosswords-puzzles/crosaire" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Crosaire</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crosswords-puzzles/simplex" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Simplex</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crosswords-puzzles/sudoku" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Sudoku</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crosswords-puzzles/news-quiz/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">News Quiz</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/ireland" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Ireland</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_ireland" aria-label="Show Ireland sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_ireland"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/ireland/dublin" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Dublin</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/ireland/education" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Education</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/ireland/housing-planning" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Housing & Planning</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/ireland/social-affairs" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Social Affairs</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/ireland/stardust/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Stardust</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/politics" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Politics</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_politics" aria-label="Show Politics sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_politics"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/poll/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Poll</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/oireachtas" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Oireachtas</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/common-ground/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Common Ground</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/election2024/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Election 2024</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/elections-referendums/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Elections & Referendums</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/opinion" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Opinion</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_opinion" aria-label="Show Opinion sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_opinion"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/opinion/editorials" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Editorials</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/opinion/an-irish-diary" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">An Irish Diary</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/opinion/letters" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Letters</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/opinion/cartoon" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Cartoon</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/business" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Business</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_business" aria-label="Show Business sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_business"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/business/economy" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Economy</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/business/farming-food" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Farming & Food</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/business/financial-services" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Financial Services</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/business/innovation" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Innovation</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/business/markets" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Markets</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/business/work" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Work</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/commercial-property" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Commercial Property</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/world" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">World</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_world" aria-label="Show World sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_world"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/world/europe" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Europe</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/world/uk" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">UK</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/world/us" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">US</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/world/canada" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Canada</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/world/australia" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Australia</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/world/africa" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Africa</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/world/americas" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Americas</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/world/asia-pacific" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Asia-Pacific</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/world/middle-east" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Middle East</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/sport" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Sport</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_sport" aria-label="Show Sport sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_sport"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/rugby" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Rugby</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/six-nations/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Six Nations</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/gaelic-games" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Gaelic Games</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Soccer</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/golf" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Golf</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/racing" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Racing</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/athletics" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Athletics</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/boxing" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Boxing</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/cycling" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Cycling</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/hockey" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Hockey</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/tennis" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Tennis</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/your-money" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Money</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_your-money" aria-label="Show Your Money sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_your-money"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/tags/pricewatch" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Pricewatch</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/budget/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Budget 2025</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Crime & Law</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_crime-law" aria-label="Show Crime & Law sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_crime-law"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Courts</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/property" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Property</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_property" aria-label="Show Property sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_property"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/residential" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Residential</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/commercial-property" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Commercial Property</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/interiors" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Interiors</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/food" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Food</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_food" aria-label="Show Food sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_food"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/drink" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Drink</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/recipes" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Recipes</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/restaurants" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Restaurants</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/health" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Health</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_health" aria-label="Show Health sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_health"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-family" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Family</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-fitness" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Fitness</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-wellness" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Wellness</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-fitness/get-running" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Get Running</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Life & Style</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_life-style" aria-label="Show Life & Style sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_life-style"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/fashion" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Fashion</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/tags/beauty/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Beauty</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/fine-art-antiques" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Fine Art & Antiques</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/gardening" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Gardening</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/people" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">People</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/travel" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Travel</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/culture" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Culture</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_culture" aria-label="Show Culture sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_culture"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/art" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Art</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/books" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Books</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/film" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Film</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/music" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Music</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/stage" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Stage</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/tv-radio" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">TV & Radio</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/environment" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Environment</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_environment" aria-label="Show Environment sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_environment"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/environment/climate-crisis" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Climate Crisis</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/technology" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Technology</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_technology" aria-label="Show Technology sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_technology"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/big-tech" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Big Tech</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/consumer-tech" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Consumer Tech</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/data-security" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Data & Security</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/gaming" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Gaming</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/science" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Science</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_science" aria-label="Show Science sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_science"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/science/space" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Space</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/media" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Media</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/abroad" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Abroad</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/obituaries" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Obituaries</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/transport" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Transport</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/motors" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Motors</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_motors" aria-label="Show Motors sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_motors"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/motors/car-reviews/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Car Reviews</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/listen/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Listen</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Podcasts</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_podcasts" aria-label="Show Podcasts sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_podcasts"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/in-the-news" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">In the News Podcast</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/inside-politics" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Inside Politics Podcast</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/the-womens-podcast" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">The Women's Podcast</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/inside-business" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Inside Business Podcast</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/ross-ocarroll-kelly" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Ross O'Carroll-Kelly</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/the-counter-ruck" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">The Counter Ruck Podcast</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/conversations-with-parents" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Conversations with Parents Podcast</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/video" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Video</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/photography" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Photography</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/history" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">History</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_history" aria-label="Show History sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_history"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/history/century" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Century</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/tuarascail" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Tuarascáil</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/student-hub" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Student Hub</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/offbeat" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Offbeat</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="https://notices.irishtimes.com" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Family Notices<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/sponsored" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Sponsored</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_sponsored" aria-label="Show Sponsored sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_sponsored"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/advertising-feature" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Advertising Feature</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/special-reports" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Special Reports</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/subscriber-rewards/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Subscriber Rewards</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/competitions" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Competitions</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/weather/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Weather Forecast</a></li><li class="section-menu--bottom-placeholder"></li></ul></div></div></div></nav><div style="display:none" id="f0fkkgpWcnR87JV" data-fusion-collection="features" data-fusion-type="flex-promo/default" data-fusion-message="Could not render component [features:flex-promo/default]"></div></header><section role="main" class="b-it-right-rail-advanced__main" id="main"><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__full-width-1" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div id="arcad-feature-f0fBmOlq9ou36g5-b93105169dd7f" class="default__StyledAdUnit-sc-1moicrg-0 gKEhzJ arcad-feature" style="--mobile-display:none;--tablet-display:block;--desktop-display:block"><div class="arcad-container width_100" style="max-width:970px"><div id="arcad_f0fBmOlq9ou36g5-b93105169dd7f" class="arcad ad-970x90"></div></div></div><div class="c-stack b-section-title" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><h1 class="c-heading">Politics</h1><div class="b-section-title__links"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/poll/">Poll</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/politics/oireachtas/">Oireachtas</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/">Inside Politics Podcast</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/common-ground/">Common Ground</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/election2024/">Election 2024</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/politics/elections-referendums/">Elections & Referendums</a></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/><div id="lazy_53347" class="lazy_container"><div class="b-flex-chain"><div class="b-flex-chain__grid-container b-flex-chain__grid-container__633 has-divider gap-divider"><div class="c-stack grid-item grid-column-span-6" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/barry-heneghan-moves-dail-seat-away-from-michael-lowry-to-emphasise-his-independent-status/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Barry Heneghan moves Dáil seat away from Michael Lowry to emphasise his ‘independent’ status" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-3-2 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg?smart=true&auth=86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg?smart=true&auth=86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg?smart=true&auth=86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg?smart=true&auth=86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg?smart=true&auth=86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg?smart=true&auth=86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__lg text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/2025/04/01/barry-heneghan-moves-dail-seat-away-from-michael-lowry-to-emphasise-his-independent-status/">Barry Heneghan moves Dáil seat away from Michael Lowry to emphasise his ‘independent’ status</a></h3><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"><span class="c-it-byline c-it-byline--list"><span>By</span><span> Harry McGee</span><span class="c-separator"></span></span><time class="c-it-promo-date" dateTime="2025-04-01T09:37:14.276Z">Tue Apr 01 2025 - 10:37</time></div></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item grid-column-span-3" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__left-hide b-flex-promo-card__image-square-mobile-left c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile c-it-border--tablet c-it-border--desktop"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/ireland-the-corporate-tax-model-of-what-us-should-do-says-former-trump-economic-adviser/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Ireland ‘the corporate tax model’ of what US should do, says former Trump economic adviser" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-1-1 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-1-1" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a&width=274&height=274" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a&width=200&height=200 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a&width=400&height=400 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a&width=600&height=600 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a&width=800&height=800 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a&width=1200&height=1200 1200w" sizes="30vw" width="274" height="274"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/2025/04/01/ireland-the-corporate-tax-model-of-what-us-should-do-says-former-trump-economic-adviser/">Ireland ‘the corporate tax model’ of what US should do, says former Trump economic adviser</a></h3></div></div></article><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__left-hide b-flex-promo-card__image-square-mobile-left c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile c-it-border--tablet c-it-border--desktop"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/majority-of-homeowners-to-see-property-tax-increases-of-between-5-and-25/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Majority of Irish homeowners to see property tax increases this year " class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-1-1 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-1-1" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg?focal=1893%2C1263&auth=a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e&width=274&height=274" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg?focal=1893%2C1263&auth=a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e&width=200&height=200 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg?focal=1893%2C1263&auth=a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e&width=400&height=400 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg?focal=1893%2C1263&auth=a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e&width=600&height=600 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg?focal=1893%2C1263&auth=a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e&width=800&height=800 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg?focal=1893%2C1263&auth=a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e&width=1200&height=1200 1200w" sizes="30vw" width="274" height="274"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/2025/04/01/majority-of-homeowners-to-see-property-tax-increases-of-between-5-and-25/">Majority of Irish homeowners to see property tax increases this year </a></h3></div></div></article><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__left-hide b-flex-promo-card__image-square-mobile-left c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile c-it-border--tablet c-it-border--desktop"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Irish pharma exports to US projected to halve over five years in event of trade war" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-1-1 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-1-1" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg?focal=2643%2C1849&auth=6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4&width=274&height=274" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg?focal=2643%2C1849&auth=6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4&width=200&height=200 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg?focal=2643%2C1849&auth=6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4&width=400&height=400 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg?focal=2643%2C1849&auth=6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4&width=600&height=600 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg?focal=2643%2C1849&auth=6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4&width=800&height=800 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg?focal=2643%2C1849&auth=6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4&width=1200&height=1200 1200w" sizes="30vw" width="274" height="274"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/">Irish pharma exports to US projected to halve over five years in event of trade war</a></h3></div></div></article><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__left-hide b-flex-promo-card__image-square-mobile-left c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile c-it-border--tablet c-it-border--desktop"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Boy’s letter about not being able to play outside after Bloody Sunday touched taoiseach, new State records show" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-1-1 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-1-1" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?focal=462%2C357&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=274&height=274" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?focal=462%2C357&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=200&height=200 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?focal=462%2C357&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=400&height=400 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?focal=462%2C357&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=600&height=600 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?focal=462%2C357&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=800&height=800 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?focal=462%2C357&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=1200&height=1200 1200w" sizes="30vw" width="274" height="274"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/">Boy’s letter about not being able to play outside after Bloody Sunday touched taoiseach, new State records show</a></h3></div></div></article><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__left-hide b-flex-promo-card__image-square-mobile-left c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/legislation-being-examined-as-way-to-deal-with-dublin-airport-cap-once-and-for-all/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Legislation being examined as way to deal with Dublin Airport cap ‘once and for all’" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-1-1 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-1-1" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG?focal=2157%2C1523&auth=a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0&width=274&height=274" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG?focal=2157%2C1523&auth=a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0&width=200&height=200 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG?focal=2157%2C1523&auth=a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0&width=400&height=400 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG?focal=2157%2C1523&auth=a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0&width=600&height=600 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG?focal=2157%2C1523&auth=a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0&width=800&height=800 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG?focal=2157%2C1523&auth=a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0&width=1200&height=1200 1200w" sizes="30vw" width="274" height="274"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/2025/03/31/legislation-being-examined-as-way-to-deal-with-dublin-airport-cap-once-and-for-all/">Legislation being examined as way to deal with Dublin Airport cap ‘once and for all’</a></h3></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item grid-column-span-3" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__left-top b-flex-promo-card__image-square-mobile-left c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile c-it-border--tablet c-it-border--desktop"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/those-convicted-of-killing-their-spouse-face-losing-guardianship-rights-under-draft-laws/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="People convicted of killing their spouse face losing guardianship rights" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-1-1 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-3-2" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg?focal=1459%2C704&auth=3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff&width=800&height=533" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg?focal=1459%2C704&auth=3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff&width=200&height=133 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg?focal=1459%2C704&auth=3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff&width=400&height=266 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg?focal=1459%2C704&auth=3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff&width=600&height=399 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg?focal=1459%2C704&auth=3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff&width=800&height=533 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg?focal=1459%2C704&auth=3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff&width=1200&height=799 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="533"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm "><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/2025/03/31/those-convicted-of-killing-their-spouse-face-losing-guardianship-rights-under-draft-laws/">People convicted of killing their spouse face losing guardianship rights</a></h3></div></div></article></div><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__left-right b-flex-promo-card__image-square-mobile-left"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/can-europe-fight-back-against-trumps-tariffs/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Can Europe fight back against Trump’s tariffs? " class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-1-1 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-3-2" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg?smart=true&auth=24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43&width=274&height=182" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg?smart=true&auth=24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43&width=200&height=132 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg?smart=true&auth=24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43&width=400&height=265 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg?smart=true&auth=24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43&width=600&height=398 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg?smart=true&auth=24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43&width=800&height=531 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg?smart=true&auth=24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43&width=1200&height=797 1200w" sizes="30vw" width="274" height="182"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="c-stack c-audio-overline" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:0.5rem"><svg class="c-icon" width="22" height="19" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="#000000" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 32C114.52 32 0 146.496 0 288v48a32 32 0 0 0 17.689 28.622l14.383 7.191C34.083 431.903 83.421 480 144 480h24c13.255 0 24-10.745 24-24V280c0-13.255-10.745-24-24-24h-24c-31.342 0-59.671 12.879-80 33.627V288c0-105.869 86.131-192 192-192s192 86.131 192 192v1.627C427.671 268.879 399.342 256 368 256h-24c-13.255 0-24 10.745-24 24v176c0 13.255 10.745 24 24 24h24c60.579 0 109.917-48.098 111.928-108.187l14.382-7.191A32 32 0 0 0 512 336v-48c0-141.479-114.496-256-256-256z"></path></svg><div class="c-grid b-it-overline-block"><div class="c-stack" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:0"><span class="c-stack b-it-overline-block__text" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="center" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="wrap"><a class="c-link false" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/">Inside Politics Podcast</a></span></div></div></div><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm "><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/can-europe-fight-back-against-trumps-tariffs/">Can Europe fight back against Trump’s tariffs? </a></h3><div class="b-flex-promo-card__audio"><button aria-label="Listen to Can Europe fight back against Trump’s tariffs? " class="c-button c-button--small c-button--primary-reverse" type="button"><svg class="c-icon" width="48" height="48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M425 215C439.3 223.8 448 239.3 448 256C448 272.7 439.3 288.2 425 296.1L137.03 472.1C122.21 482 103.66 482.4 88.52 473.9C73.377 465.4 64 449.4 64 432V80C64 62.64 73.377 46.63 88.52 38.13C103.66 29.64 122.21 29.99 137.03 39.04L425 215Z"></path></svg></button><span class="b-flex-promo-card__audio-text">Listen | 42:16</span></div></div></div></article></div></div></div></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/><div class="c-grid b-it-header-block"><div class="b-it-header-block__header-block font-normal "><div class="c-stack b-it-header-block__heading-h5 font-normal" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack headline-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:0"><h2 as="h5" class="c-heading font-normal margin_none">OPINION & ANALYSIS</h2></div></div></div></div><div id="lazy_32217" class="lazy_container"><div class="b-flex-chain"><div class="b-flex-chain__grid-container b-flex-chain__grid-container__3333 has-divider gap-divider"><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/ministers-brace-for-chill-winds-of-trump-tariffs/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Ministers brace for chill winds of Trump tariffs" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-3-2 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg?smart=true&auth=c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg?smart=true&auth=c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg?smart=true&auth=c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg?smart=true&auth=c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg?smart=true&auth=c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg?smart=true&auth=c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/2025/04/01/ministers-brace-for-chill-winds-of-trump-tariffs/">Ministers brace for chill winds of Trump tariffs</a></h3><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"><span class="c-it-byline c-it-byline--list"><span>By</span><span> Harry McGee</span></span></div></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/norths-unionists-can-learn-from-britains-record-on-diversity/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="North’s unionists can learn from Britain’s record on diversity" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-3-2 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg?smart=true&auth=6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg?smart=true&auth=6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg?smart=true&auth=6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg?smart=true&auth=6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg?smart=true&auth=6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg?smart=true&auth=6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/2025/03/31/norths-unionists-can-learn-from-britains-record-on-diversity/">North’s unionists can learn from Britain’s record on diversity</a></h3><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"><span class="c-it-byline c-it-byline--list"><span>By</span><span> Graham Spencer</span></span></div></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Q&A: Is the Ceann Comhairle confidence motion unprecedented?" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-3-2 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png?smart=true&auth=c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png?smart=true&auth=c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png?smart=true&auth=c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png?smart=true&auth=c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png?smart=true&auth=c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png?smart=true&auth=c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/">Q&A: Is the Ceann Comhairle confidence motion unprecedented?</a></h3><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"><span class="c-it-byline c-it-byline--list"><span>By</span><span> Harry McGee</span></span></div></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/2025/03/30/wednesday-could-see-the-start-of-a-us-eu-trade-war-how-would-ireland-be-affected/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Explainer: How would Ireland be affected in a US-EU trade war" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-3-2 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg?smart=true&auth=97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg?smart=true&auth=97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg?smart=true&auth=97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg?smart=true&auth=97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg?smart=true&auth=97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg?smart=true&auth=97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/2025/03/30/wednesday-could-see-the-start-of-a-us-eu-trade-war-how-would-ireland-be-affected/">Explainer: How would Ireland be affected in a US-EU trade war</a></h3><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"><span class="c-it-byline c-it-byline--list"><span>By</span><span> Cormac McQuinn</span></span></div></div></div></article></div></div></div></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/><div class="c-grid b-it-header-block"><div class="b-it-header-block__header-block font-normal "><a class="c-link b-it-header-block__link font-normal" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/"><div class="c-stack b-it-header-block__heading-h5 font-normal" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack headline-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:0"><h2 as="h5" class="c-heading font-normal margin_none"><span class=" font-normal">INSIDE POLITICS PODCAST<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="24" viewBox="0 0 14 24" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" class="c-icon"><path d="M1.13096 0.799122C1.80974 0.102652 2.7203 -0.288062 3.25008 0.255525L13.3161 10.5835C14.2279 11.4523 14.228 12.9331 13.3161 13.802L3.78 23.0857C2.92237 23.9029 2.18997 24.7165 0.637788 22.9345C-0.650965 21.455 0.273466 20.6414 1.1311 19.8243L8.71733 12.5593C8.91647 12.3686 8.92364 12.0527 8.73336 11.8531L0.748709 3.47961C-0.108924 2.6625 0.0713963 1.88627 1.13096 0.799122Z"></path></svg></span></h2></div></div></a></div></div><div id="lazy_58712" class="lazy_container"><div class="b-flex-chain"><div class="b-flex-chain__grid-container b-flex-chain__grid-container__3333 has-divider gap-divider"><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/are-labour-getting-too-close-to-sinn-fein-for-their-own-good/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Are Labour getting too close to Sinn Féin for their own good?" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-3-2 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ.jpg?focal=1776%2C1112&auth=38cf5148d5a7d25ad482784454d89542e65347062ba7a88eeb3f5b1814cb7a0a&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ.jpg?focal=1776%2C1112&auth=38cf5148d5a7d25ad482784454d89542e65347062ba7a88eeb3f5b1814cb7a0a&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ.jpg?focal=1776%2C1112&auth=38cf5148d5a7d25ad482784454d89542e65347062ba7a88eeb3f5b1814cb7a0a&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ.jpg?focal=1776%2C1112&auth=38cf5148d5a7d25ad482784454d89542e65347062ba7a88eeb3f5b1814cb7a0a&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ.jpg?focal=1776%2C1112&auth=38cf5148d5a7d25ad482784454d89542e65347062ba7a88eeb3f5b1814cb7a0a&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ.jpg?focal=1776%2C1112&auth=38cf5148d5a7d25ad482784454d89542e65347062ba7a88eeb3f5b1814cb7a0a&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/are-labour-getting-too-close-to-sinn-fein-for-their-own-good/">Are Labour getting too close to Sinn Féin for their own good?</a></h3><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"></div><div class="b-flex-promo-card__audio"><button aria-label="Listen to Are Labour getting too close to Sinn Féin for their own good?" class="c-button c-button--small c-button--primary-reverse" type="button"><svg class="c-icon" width="48" height="48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M425 215C439.3 223.8 448 239.3 448 256C448 272.7 439.3 288.2 425 296.1L137.03 472.1C122.21 482 103.66 482.4 88.52 473.9C73.377 465.4 64 449.4 64 432V80C64 62.64 73.377 46.63 88.52 38.13C103.66 29.64 122.21 29.99 137.03 39.04L425 215Z"></path></svg></button><span class="b-flex-promo-card__audio-text">Listen | 41:04</span></div></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/opposition-loses-confidence-in-verona-murphy-as-the-lowry-deal-haunts-government/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Opposition loses confidence in Verona Murphy as the Lowry deal haunts Government" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-3-2 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM.JPG?smart=true&auth=1df3d9a06aa9c4794c7dd5812d67e229df9afa7c58bb88f7a448f64127e54c9d&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM.JPG?smart=true&auth=1df3d9a06aa9c4794c7dd5812d67e229df9afa7c58bb88f7a448f64127e54c9d&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM.JPG?smart=true&auth=1df3d9a06aa9c4794c7dd5812d67e229df9afa7c58bb88f7a448f64127e54c9d&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM.JPG?smart=true&auth=1df3d9a06aa9c4794c7dd5812d67e229df9afa7c58bb88f7a448f64127e54c9d&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM.JPG?smart=true&auth=1df3d9a06aa9c4794c7dd5812d67e229df9afa7c58bb88f7a448f64127e54c9d&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM.JPG?smart=true&auth=1df3d9a06aa9c4794c7dd5812d67e229df9afa7c58bb88f7a448f64127e54c9d&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/opposition-loses-confidence-in-verona-murphy-as-the-lowry-deal-haunts-government/">Opposition loses confidence in Verona Murphy as the Lowry deal haunts Government</a></h3><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"></div><div class="b-flex-promo-card__audio"><button aria-label="Listen to Opposition loses confidence in Verona Murphy as the Lowry deal haunts Government" class="c-button c-button--small c-button--primary-reverse" type="button"><svg class="c-icon" width="48" height="48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M425 215C439.3 223.8 448 239.3 448 256C448 272.7 439.3 288.2 425 296.1L137.03 472.1C122.21 482 103.66 482.4 88.52 473.9C73.377 465.4 64 449.4 64 432V80C64 62.64 73.377 46.63 88.52 38.13C103.66 29.64 122.21 29.99 137.03 39.04L425 215Z"></path></svg></button><span class="b-flex-promo-card__audio-text">Listen | 26:55</span></div></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/the-assads-ruled-brutally-for-half-a-century-then-suddenly-they-were-gone/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="‘The Assads ruled brutally for half a century. Then suddenly they were gone’ " class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-3-2 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/RTSNMFJVQFG67FYLKLS23GMPGE.jpg?smart=true&auth=81b310c498608351cd3bde7586ff50214ca9b7a789362b5254b325096120122b&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/RTSNMFJVQFG67FYLKLS23GMPGE.jpg?smart=true&auth=81b310c498608351cd3bde7586ff50214ca9b7a789362b5254b325096120122b&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/RTSNMFJVQFG67FYLKLS23GMPGE.jpg?smart=true&auth=81b310c498608351cd3bde7586ff50214ca9b7a789362b5254b325096120122b&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/RTSNMFJVQFG67FYLKLS23GMPGE.jpg?smart=true&auth=81b310c498608351cd3bde7586ff50214ca9b7a789362b5254b325096120122b&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/RTSNMFJVQFG67FYLKLS23GMPGE.jpg?smart=true&auth=81b310c498608351cd3bde7586ff50214ca9b7a789362b5254b325096120122b&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/RTSNMFJVQFG67FYLKLS23GMPGE.jpg?smart=true&auth=81b310c498608351cd3bde7586ff50214ca9b7a789362b5254b325096120122b&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/the-assads-ruled-brutally-for-half-a-century-then-suddenly-they-were-gone/">‘The Assads ruled brutally for half a century. Then suddenly they were gone’ </a></h3><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"></div><div class="b-flex-promo-card__audio"><button aria-label="Listen to ‘The Assads ruled brutally for half a century. Then suddenly they were gone’ " class="c-button c-button--small c-button--primary-reverse" type="button"><svg class="c-icon" width="48" height="48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M425 215C439.3 223.8 448 239.3 448 256C448 272.7 439.3 288.2 425 296.1L137.03 472.1C122.21 482 103.66 482.4 88.52 473.9C73.377 465.4 64 449.4 64 432V80C64 62.64 73.377 46.63 88.52 38.13C103.66 29.64 122.21 29.99 137.03 39.04L425 215Z"></path></svg></button><span class="b-flex-promo-card__audio-text">Listen | 00:00</span></div></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/europe-gathers-to-grapple-with-a-new-economic-and-security-paradigm/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Europe gathers to grapple with a new economic and security paradigm" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-3-2 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QH3OR32ONRBAQKWPGP3XYAY4OI.jpg?smart=true&auth=31588320d0c54e8828348c080d14289ac704645e53bc44dd470c278cde115d00&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QH3OR32ONRBAQKWPGP3XYAY4OI.jpg?smart=true&auth=31588320d0c54e8828348c080d14289ac704645e53bc44dd470c278cde115d00&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QH3OR32ONRBAQKWPGP3XYAY4OI.jpg?smart=true&auth=31588320d0c54e8828348c080d14289ac704645e53bc44dd470c278cde115d00&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QH3OR32ONRBAQKWPGP3XYAY4OI.jpg?smart=true&auth=31588320d0c54e8828348c080d14289ac704645e53bc44dd470c278cde115d00&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QH3OR32ONRBAQKWPGP3XYAY4OI.jpg?smart=true&auth=31588320d0c54e8828348c080d14289ac704645e53bc44dd470c278cde115d00&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QH3OR32ONRBAQKWPGP3XYAY4OI.jpg?smart=true&auth=31588320d0c54e8828348c080d14289ac704645e53bc44dd470c278cde115d00&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/europe-gathers-to-grapple-with-a-new-economic-and-security-paradigm/">Europe gathers to grapple with a new economic and security paradigm</a></h3><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"></div><div class="b-flex-promo-card__audio"><button aria-label="Listen to Europe gathers to grapple with a new economic and security paradigm" class="c-button c-button--small c-button--primary-reverse" type="button"><svg class="c-icon" width="48" height="48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M425 215C439.3 223.8 448 239.3 448 256C448 272.7 439.3 288.2 425 296.1L137.03 472.1C122.21 482 103.66 482.4 88.52 473.9C73.377 465.4 64 449.4 64 432V80C64 62.64 73.377 46.63 88.52 38.13C103.66 29.64 122.21 29.99 137.03 39.04L425 215Z"></path></svg></button><span class="b-flex-promo-card__audio-text">Listen | 41:39</span></div></div></div></article></div></div></div></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/><div id="arcad-feature-f0fO8wbec9yW2OO-166913b8595813" class="default__StyledAdUnit-sc-1moicrg-0 gKEhzJ arcad-feature" style="min-height:107px;--mobile-display:block;--tablet-display:block;--desktop-display:block"><div class="arcad-container width_100" style="max-width:970px"><div id="arcad_f0fO8wbec9yW2OO-166913b8595813" class="arcad ad-970x90"></div></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/><div class="c-grid b-it-header-block"><div class="b-it-header-block__header-block font-normal "><a class="c-link b-it-header-block__link font-normal" href="/politics/oireachtas/"><div class="c-stack b-it-header-block__heading-h5 font-normal" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack headline-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:0"><h2 as="h5" class="c-heading font-normal margin_none"><span class=" font-normal">OIREACHTAS<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="24" viewBox="0 0 14 24" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" class="c-icon"><path d="M1.13096 0.799122C1.80974 0.102652 2.7203 -0.288062 3.25008 0.255525L13.3161 10.5835C14.2279 11.4523 14.228 12.9331 13.3161 13.802L3.78 23.0857C2.92237 23.9029 2.18997 24.7165 0.637788 22.9345C-0.650965 21.455 0.273466 20.6414 1.1311 19.8243L8.71733 12.5593C8.91647 12.3686 8.92364 12.0527 8.73336 11.8531L0.748709 3.47961C-0.108924 2.6625 0.0713963 1.88627 1.13096 0.799122Z"></path></svg></span></h2></div></div></a></div></div><div id="lazy_75335" class="lazy_container"><div class="b-flex-chain"><div class="b-flex-chain__grid-container b-flex-chain__grid-container__3522 has-divider gap-divider"><div class="c-stack grid-item grid-column-span-3" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top-hide c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/27/hundreds-of-children-had-unnecessary-hip-surgery-at-dublin-hospitals-dail-hears/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Hundreds of children had unnecessary hip surgery at Dublin hospitals, Dáil hears" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-3-2 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-3-2" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY.jpg?smart=true&auth=350a3118b3a87c501a58b63e23526bd0dc1f5f53b0f2795c3abb825a2bd828ec&width=800&height=533" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY.jpg?smart=true&auth=350a3118b3a87c501a58b63e23526bd0dc1f5f53b0f2795c3abb825a2bd828ec&width=200&height=133 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY.jpg?smart=true&auth=350a3118b3a87c501a58b63e23526bd0dc1f5f53b0f2795c3abb825a2bd828ec&width=400&height=266 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY.jpg?smart=true&auth=350a3118b3a87c501a58b63e23526bd0dc1f5f53b0f2795c3abb825a2bd828ec&width=600&height=399 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY.jpg?smart=true&auth=350a3118b3a87c501a58b63e23526bd0dc1f5f53b0f2795c3abb825a2bd828ec&width=800&height=533 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY.jpg?smart=true&auth=350a3118b3a87c501a58b63e23526bd0dc1f5f53b0f2795c3abb825a2bd828ec&width=1200&height=799 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="533"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__md text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/27/hundreds-of-children-had-unnecessary-hip-surgery-at-dublin-hospitals-dail-hears/">Hundreds of children had unnecessary hip surgery at Dublin hospitals, Dáil hears</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/27/hundreds-of-children-had-unnecessary-hip-surgery-at-dublin-hospitals-dail-hears/">Sinn Féin’s Pearse Doherty raises issue of audit sparked by whistleblower allegations</a></p><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"><span class="c-it-byline c-it-byline--list"><span>By</span><span> Marie O'Halloran</span><span class="c-separator"></span></span><time class="c-it-promo-date" dateTime="2025-03-27T15:23:42.427Z">Thu Mar 27 2025 - 15:23</time></div></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item grid-column-span-5" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__left-top b-flex-promo-card__image-square-mobile-left c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/ceann-comhairle-verona-murphy-to-face-no-confidence-vote-next-week-as-she-denies-opposition-claims/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy to face no-confidence vote in Dáil next Tuesday" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-1-1 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG?smart=true&auth=0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG?smart=true&auth=0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG?smart=true&auth=0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG?smart=true&auth=0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG?smart=true&auth=0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG?smart=true&auth=0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/ceann-comhairle-verona-murphy-to-face-no-confidence-vote-next-week-as-she-denies-opposition-claims/">Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy to face no-confidence vote in Dáil next Tuesday</a></h3></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item grid-column-span-2" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__hide-top"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Opposition leaders stop short of no confidence motion in Verona Murphy" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-1-1 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM.jpg?focal=2193%2C1108&auth=e4dddf0c3cf22263d603522020db01ff2753d07e887e2c58adfd22e4d702692e&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM.jpg?focal=2193%2C1108&auth=e4dddf0c3cf22263d603522020db01ff2753d07e887e2c58adfd22e4d702692e&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM.jpg?focal=2193%2C1108&auth=e4dddf0c3cf22263d603522020db01ff2753d07e887e2c58adfd22e4d702692e&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM.jpg?focal=2193%2C1108&auth=e4dddf0c3cf22263d603522020db01ff2753d07e887e2c58adfd22e4d702692e&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM.jpg?focal=2193%2C1108&auth=e4dddf0c3cf22263d603522020db01ff2753d07e887e2c58adfd22e4d702692e&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM.jpg?focal=2193%2C1108&auth=e4dddf0c3cf22263d603522020db01ff2753d07e887e2c58adfd22e4d702692e&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/">Opposition leaders stop short of no confidence motion in Verona Murphy</a></h3></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item grid-column-span-2" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__hide-top"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-rejects-claim-of-stalling-over-oireachtas-committees-to-protect-michael-lowry-group/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Taoiseach rejects claim of stalling over Oireachtas committees to protect Michael Lowry group" class="c-image b-flex-promo-card__mobile-image-1-1 b-flex-promo-card__desktop-image-16-9" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE.JPG?focal=1729%2C1597&auth=1d8f124b1bb9f2576d61aef6df6943693ba782bf2aeeb79bda8721e3ac9af9db&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE.JPG?focal=1729%2C1597&auth=1d8f124b1bb9f2576d61aef6df6943693ba782bf2aeeb79bda8721e3ac9af9db&width=200&height=112 200w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE.JPG?focal=1729%2C1597&auth=1d8f124b1bb9f2576d61aef6df6943693ba782bf2aeeb79bda8721e3ac9af9db&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE.JPG?focal=1729%2C1597&auth=1d8f124b1bb9f2576d61aef6df6943693ba782bf2aeeb79bda8721e3ac9af9db&width=600&height=337 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE.JPG?focal=1729%2C1597&auth=1d8f124b1bb9f2576d61aef6df6943693ba782bf2aeeb79bda8721e3ac9af9db&width=800&height=450 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE.JPG?focal=1729%2C1597&auth=1d8f124b1bb9f2576d61aef6df6943693ba782bf2aeeb79bda8721e3ac9af9db&width=1200&height=675 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 800px) 50vw, 100vw" width="800" height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-rejects-claim-of-stalling-over-oireachtas-committees-to-protect-michael-lowry-group/">Taoiseach rejects claim of stalling over Oireachtas committees to protect Michael Lowry group</a></h3></div></div></article></div></div></div></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/></div><div class="c-grid b-it-right-rail-advanced__rail-container"><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-interior-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-interior-item-1" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div id="lazy_58284" class="lazy_container"><div class="b-flex-chain"><div class="b-flex-chain__grid-container b-flex-chain__grid-container__12 gap"><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="b-newsletter-block newsletter-sub-wrapper c-border__bottom border_top padding-sm-top"><div class="c-stack b-newsletter-block__horizontal" data-style-direction="inherit" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="image-wrapper_side right"><div style="aspect-ratio:84 / 84;background-color:var(--global-neutral-1)" class=""><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Inside Politics" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com%2Firishtimes%2FOKCK2X2KDBDT5EMX7RF3CQOLUQ.jpg?auth=708a648905c99242bb0ee34eedfaaaae85ded58548499ebd662a1bc32c74c6eb&width=84&height=84" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com%2Firishtimes%2FOKCK2X2KDBDT5EMX7RF3CQOLUQ.jpg?auth=708a648905c99242bb0ee34eedfaaaae85ded58548499ebd662a1bc32c74c6eb&width=84&height=84 84w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com%2Firishtimes%2FOKCK2X2KDBDT5EMX7RF3CQOLUQ.jpg?auth=708a648905c99242bb0ee34eedfaaaae85ded58548499ebd662a1bc32c74c6eb&width=168&height=168 168w" sizes="(max-width: 440px) 84px, (min-width: 441px) 168px" width="84" height="84"/></div></div><div class=""><h2 class="c-heading">Inside Politics</h2><p class="c-paragraph">Our politics team's behind-the-scenes take on events of the day. Every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday when the Dáil sits</p></div></div><div><button class="c-button c-button--full-width c-button--large c-button--primary b-newsletter-block__button newsletter-sub-btn" type="submit"><span>Sign up</span></button></div></div><div class="c-stack b-results-list__wrapper" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/barry-heneghan-moves-dail-seat-away-from-michael-lowry-to-emphasise-his-independent-status/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Barry Heneghan moves Dáil seat away from Michael Lowry to emphasise his ‘independent’ status" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg?smart=true&auth=86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg?smart=true&auth=86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg?smart=true&auth=86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/barry-heneghan-moves-dail-seat-away-from-michael-lowry-to-emphasise-his-independent-status/">Barry Heneghan moves Dáil seat away from Michael Lowry to emphasise his ‘independent’ status</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/ireland-the-corporate-tax-model-of-what-us-should-do-says-former-trump-economic-adviser/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Ireland ‘the corporate tax model’ of what US should do, says former Trump economic adviser" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/ireland-the-corporate-tax-model-of-what-us-should-do-says-former-trump-economic-adviser/">Ireland ‘the corporate tax model’ of what US should do, says former Trump economic adviser</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/ministers-brace-for-chill-winds-of-trump-tariffs/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Ministers brace for chill winds of Trump tariffs" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg?smart=true&auth=c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg?smart=true&auth=c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg?smart=true&auth=c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/ministers-brace-for-chill-winds-of-trump-tariffs/">Ministers brace for chill winds of Trump tariffs</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/can-europe-fight-back-against-trumps-tariffs/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Can Europe fight back against Trump’s tariffs? " class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg?smart=true&auth=24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg?smart=true&auth=24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg?smart=true&auth=24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/inside-politics/can-europe-fight-back-against-trumps-tariffs/">Can Europe fight back against Trump’s tariffs? </a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Irish pharma exports to US projected to halve over five years in event of trade war" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg?focal=2643%2C1849&auth=6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg?focal=2643%2C1849&auth=6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg?focal=2643%2C1849&auth=6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/">Irish pharma exports to US projected to halve over five years in event of trade war</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/majority-of-homeowners-to-see-property-tax-increases-of-between-5-and-25/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Majority of Irish homeowners to see property tax increases this year " class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg?focal=1893%2C1263&auth=a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg?focal=1893%2C1263&auth=a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg?focal=1893%2C1263&auth=a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/04/01/majority-of-homeowners-to-see-property-tax-increases-of-between-5-and-25/">Majority of Irish homeowners to see property tax increases this year </a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/norths-unionists-can-learn-from-britains-record-on-diversity/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="North’s unionists can learn from Britain’s record on diversity" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg?smart=true&auth=6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg?smart=true&auth=6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg?smart=true&auth=6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/norths-unionists-can-learn-from-britains-record-on-diversity/">North’s unionists can learn from Britain’s record on diversity</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Q&A: Is the Ceann Comhairle confidence motion unprecedented?" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png?smart=true&auth=c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png?smart=true&auth=c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png?smart=true&auth=c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/">Q&A: Is the Ceann Comhairle confidence motion unprecedented?</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Boy’s letter about not being able to play outside after Bloody Sunday touched taoiseach, new State records show" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?focal=462%2C357&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?focal=462%2C357&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?focal=462%2C357&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/">Boy’s letter about not being able to play outside after Bloody Sunday touched taoiseach, new State records show</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/legislation-being-examined-as-way-to-deal-with-dublin-airport-cap-once-and-for-all/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Legislation being examined as way to deal with Dublin Airport cap ‘once and for all’" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG?focal=2157%2C1523&auth=a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG?focal=2157%2C1523&auth=a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG?focal=2157%2C1523&auth=a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/legislation-being-examined-as-way-to-deal-with-dublin-airport-cap-once-and-for-all/">Legislation being examined as way to deal with Dublin Airport cap ‘once and for all’</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/those-convicted-of-killing-their-spouse-face-losing-guardianship-rights-under-draft-laws/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="People convicted of killing their spouse face losing guardianship rights" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg?focal=1459%2C704&auth=3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg?focal=1459%2C704&auth=3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg?focal=1459%2C704&auth=3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/those-convicted-of-killing-their-spouse-face-losing-guardianship-rights-under-draft-laws/">People convicted of killing their spouse face losing guardianship rights</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/us-tariffs-ireland-to-bolster-competitiveness-ahead-of-looming-trade-war/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="US tariffs: Ireland to bolster competitiveness ahead of looming trade war" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VCACUF3RZE6NN5N6UU63EUW5Y.jpg?focal=1190%2C1015&auth=ae00a15721573199b2d7b666acab3e50d8bd31c3df368f95b8d29c1d9dc5a92e&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VCACUF3RZE6NN5N6UU63EUW5Y.jpg?focal=1190%2C1015&auth=ae00a15721573199b2d7b666acab3e50d8bd31c3df368f95b8d29c1d9dc5a92e&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6VCACUF3RZE6NN5N6UU63EUW5Y.jpg?focal=1190%2C1015&auth=ae00a15721573199b2d7b666acab3e50d8bd31c3df368f95b8d29c1d9dc5a92e&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/31/us-tariffs-ireland-to-bolster-competitiveness-ahead-of-looming-trade-war/">US tariffs: Ireland to bolster competitiveness ahead of looming trade war</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/30/us-demands-for-its-airlines-to-land-at-dublin-threatened-aer-lingus-and-west-of-ireland-lynch-told-nixon/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="US airlines’ demand to be allowed to land at Dublin threatened Aer Lingus and west of Ireland, Lynch told Nixon" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/30/us-demands-for-its-airlines-to-land-at-dublin-threatened-aer-lingus-and-west-of-ireland-lynch-told-nixon/">US airlines’ demand to be allowed to land at Dublin threatened Aer Lingus and west of Ireland, Lynch told Nixon</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/30/dup-to-put-marker-down-at-executive-against-irish-language-signs-at-belfasts-grand-central-station/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="DUP to put ‘marker down’ at Executive against Irish language signs at Belfast’s Grand Central Station" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/7SHJX7JM3QHAN4WMTMGLRMOYZM.jpg?smart=true&auth=3818dcc20da4a2d0bb6e59de96ae4ac385071297f19adc3eec0993bf809465e7&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/7SHJX7JM3QHAN4WMTMGLRMOYZM.jpg?smart=true&auth=3818dcc20da4a2d0bb6e59de96ae4ac385071297f19adc3eec0993bf809465e7&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/7SHJX7JM3QHAN4WMTMGLRMOYZM.jpg?smart=true&auth=3818dcc20da4a2d0bb6e59de96ae4ac385071297f19adc3eec0993bf809465e7&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/30/dup-to-put-marker-down-at-executive-against-irish-language-signs-at-belfasts-grand-central-station/">DUP to put ‘marker down’ at Executive against Irish language signs at Belfast’s Grand Central Station</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/30/wednesday-could-see-the-start-of-a-us-eu-trade-war-how-would-ireland-be-affected/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Explainer: How would Ireland be affected in a US-EU trade war" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg?smart=true&auth=97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg?smart=true&auth=97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg?smart=true&auth=97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/30/wednesday-could-see-the-start-of-a-us-eu-trade-war-how-would-ireland-be-affected/">Explainer: How would Ireland be affected in a US-EU trade war</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/ireland/2025/03/29/frances-black-open-to-the-conversation-about-becoming-a-presidential-candidate/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Frances Black ‘open to the conversation’ about becoming a presidential candidate" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T2FFM6PWQUNX5RRCL6YRZPN7KM.jpg?focal=2557%2C1497&auth=a66705f0d8fe8f0f1f27ccf3aa0f9ec91b0701d5c18848a1cd4d084f5a131a9a&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T2FFM6PWQUNX5RRCL6YRZPN7KM.jpg?focal=2557%2C1497&auth=a66705f0d8fe8f0f1f27ccf3aa0f9ec91b0701d5c18848a1cd4d084f5a131a9a&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/T2FFM6PWQUNX5RRCL6YRZPN7KM.jpg?focal=2557%2C1497&auth=a66705f0d8fe8f0f1f27ccf3aa0f9ec91b0701d5c18848a1cd4d084f5a131a9a&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/ireland/2025/03/29/frances-black-open-to-the-conversation-about-becoming-a-presidential-candidate/">Frances Black ‘open to the conversation’ about becoming a presidential candidate</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/29/leo-varadkar-confirms-he-will-feature-in-rte-travel-show-and-rules-out-presidential-bid/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Leo Varadkar confirms he will feature in RTÉ travel show and rules out presidential bid" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JDKB3KPPABDBQEL7CQ2RKVU2FE.jpg?focal=1845%2C1268&auth=953e4dca5c4e813c3177f0091fe42bf7dcd7349e824bbab5ba0f3d4d06f25f37&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JDKB3KPPABDBQEL7CQ2RKVU2FE.jpg?focal=1845%2C1268&auth=953e4dca5c4e813c3177f0091fe42bf7dcd7349e824bbab5ba0f3d4d06f25f37&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JDKB3KPPABDBQEL7CQ2RKVU2FE.jpg?focal=1845%2C1268&auth=953e4dca5c4e813c3177f0091fe42bf7dcd7349e824bbab5ba0f3d4d06f25f37&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/29/leo-varadkar-confirms-he-will-feature-in-rte-travel-show-and-rules-out-presidential-bid/">Leo Varadkar confirms he will feature in RTÉ travel show and rules out presidential bid</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/opinion/2025/03/29/speaking-rights-for-michael-lowry-would-not-be-on-my-list-of-issues-critical-to-our-democracy/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Speaking rights for Michael Lowry would not be on my list of issues critical to our democracy" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/4SUUFM7JAJAT7GROVDWZEYRBIQ.jpg?focal=752%2C505&auth=6b9de53e67630ea4f7579da45e4dff4d4ca3e1b29265948a424b108077ebda7b&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/4SUUFM7JAJAT7GROVDWZEYRBIQ.jpg?focal=752%2C505&auth=6b9de53e67630ea4f7579da45e4dff4d4ca3e1b29265948a424b108077ebda7b&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/4SUUFM7JAJAT7GROVDWZEYRBIQ.jpg?focal=752%2C505&auth=6b9de53e67630ea4f7579da45e4dff4d4ca3e1b29265948a424b108077ebda7b&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/opinion/2025/03/29/speaking-rights-for-michael-lowry-would-not-be-on-my-list-of-issues-critical-to-our-democracy/">Speaking rights for Michael Lowry would not be on my list of issues critical to our democracy</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/29/miriam-lord-with-verona-under-fire-tds-suddenly-realise-they-are-gravely-concerned-about-misogyny-after-all/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Miriam Lord: With Verona under fire, TDs suddenly realise they are gravely concerned about misogyny after all" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BQRTHGOKGZEMRBGGLSEX4OSIV4.jpg?focal=743%2C489&auth=3727d6abbbaf6af6b71b6ecee24f7054c390eab4219465d30232704b0a018b75&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BQRTHGOKGZEMRBGGLSEX4OSIV4.jpg?focal=743%2C489&auth=3727d6abbbaf6af6b71b6ecee24f7054c390eab4219465d30232704b0a018b75&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BQRTHGOKGZEMRBGGLSEX4OSIV4.jpg?focal=743%2C489&auth=3727d6abbbaf6af6b71b6ecee24f7054c390eab4219465d30232704b0a018b75&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/29/miriam-lord-with-verona-under-fire-tds-suddenly-realise-they-are-gravely-concerned-about-misogyny-after-all/">Miriam Lord: With Verona under fire, TDs suddenly realise they are gravely concerned about misogyny after all</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/29/in-their-own-words-councillors-respond-to-conor-mcgregors-bid-for-presidential-nomination/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="‘I would not even consider voting for that horrid man’: Councillors respond to Conor McGregor’s bid for presidential nomination" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JJHGRDXRQRGUTHB7HVUF3KVWS4.jpg?smart=true&auth=e8c4236e3a81953b94d2826db7459b0006c5aae89639fa30bad5cf4548c68952&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JJHGRDXRQRGUTHB7HVUF3KVWS4.jpg?smart=true&auth=e8c4236e3a81953b94d2826db7459b0006c5aae89639fa30bad5cf4548c68952&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/JJHGRDXRQRGUTHB7HVUF3KVWS4.jpg?smart=true&auth=e8c4236e3a81953b94d2826db7459b0006c5aae89639fa30bad5cf4548c68952&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/29/in-their-own-words-councillors-respond-to-conor-mcgregors-bid-for-presidential-nomination/">‘I would not even consider voting for that horrid man’: Councillors respond to Conor McGregor’s bid for presidential nomination</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="c-stack b-results-list__seeMore" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><button aria-label="See more stories about this topic" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--primary" type="button"><span>See more</span></button></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-interior-item-2" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div id="arcad-feature-f0fV3vJut2z6cu5-3c6b89d97a891" class="default__StyledAdUnit-sc-1moicrg-0 kjbLvz arcad-feature" style="--mobile-display:block;--tablet-display:block;--desktop-display:block"><div class="arcad-container width_100" style="max-width:fluidpx"><div id="arcad_f0fV3vJut2z6cu5-3c6b89d97a891" class="arcad ad-fluid"></div></div></div></div></div><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-right-rail b-it-right-rail-advanced__empty" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-right-rail-top" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="b-it-sticky-chain sticky-chain"><div><div class="c-grid b-it-header-block"><div class="b-it-header-block__header-block font-normal "><a class="c-link b-it-header-block__link font-normal" href="/most-read/"><div class="c-stack b-it-header-block__heading-h5 font-normal" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack headline-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:0"><h2 as="h5" class="c-heading font-normal margin_none"><span class=" font-normal">MOST READ<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="24" viewBox="0 0 14 24" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" class="c-icon"><path d="M1.13096 0.799122C1.80974 0.102652 2.7203 -0.288062 3.25008 0.255525L13.3161 10.5835C14.2279 11.4523 14.228 12.9331 13.3161 13.802L3.78 23.0857C2.92237 23.9029 2.18997 24.7165 0.637788 22.9345C-0.650965 21.455 0.273466 20.6414 1.1311 19.8243L8.71733 12.5593C8.91647 12.3686 8.92364 12.0527 8.73336 11.8531L0.748709 3.47961C-0.108924 2.6625 0.0713963 1.88627 1.13096 0.799122Z"></path></svg></span></h2></div></div></a></div></div></div><div></div><div class="b-it-sticky-chain__container sticky-container"><div><div id="arcad-feature-f0fYAeOZdspl1HV-b61bb486b4cd" class="default__StyledAdUnit-sc-1moicrg-0 gKEhzJ arcad-feature" style="--mobile-display:block;--tablet-display:block;--desktop-display:block"><div class="arcad-container width_100" style="max-width:300px"><div id="arcad_f0fYAeOZdspl1HV-b61bb486b4cd" class="arcad ad-300x250"></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-right-rail-middle" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"></div><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-right-rail-bottom" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"></div></div></div></section><footer class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__footer" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div id="lazy_3122" class="lazy_container"><div class="b-flex-chain"><div class="b-flex-chain__grid-container b-flex-chain__grid-container__12 gap"><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div id="fusion-static-enter:html-block-f0fbv2KMxkeL6rG-8-0-0" style="display:none" data-fusion-component="html-block-f0fbv2KMxkeL6rG-8-0-0"></div><div><style> /*Override copyright*/ .copyright-column p, .copyright, /*Footer*/ footer .footer-header, footer .footer-section ul, [aria-label="our-partners"], [aria-label="our-partners"] span, .b-links-bar span, footer span { font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; color: #575757; } /* Change the order in the footer*/ footer .legacy-footer-row { position: relative; } /*Hide the logo from the footer*/ footer .primaryLogo, footer hr { display: none!important; } /* Hide the top border in the footer*/ footer .section-separator { border-top: none; } footer .socialBtn-container, footer .socialBtn-container a { border: none; } /*Copyright*/ .copyright-column { width: 82%!important; } .copyright-column p { text-align: right!important; } .copyright { font-size: small; padding: 0; } /* Style our partners*/ [aria-label="our-partners"] { background-color: #f1f1f1; padding-top: 0.75rem; padding-bottom: 0.75rem; margin-bottom: 1rem; } [aria-label="our-partners"] hr, { display: none; } [aria-label="our-partners"]:before { font-size: small; content: 'Our partners: '; font-weight: bold; color: #575757; text-transform: uppercase; } /*Mobile styles*/ @media screen and (max-width: 767px) { footer { margin-bottom: 0 !important; } footer .layout-section>* { margin-bottom: 0; } .legacy-footer-row { display:flex; flex-direction: row; /*background-color:#f1f1f1;*/ width: 100vw; position: relative; left: -20px; padding-top: 2rem; } .footer-header { text-align: center; } .footer-item { text-align: center; font-size: 14px; } [aria-label="our-partners"] { display: block; text-align: center; color: #000; margin-bottom: 0; } [aria-label="our-partners"]:before { text-align: center; display: block; } [aria-label="our-partners"] .b-links-menu { display: flex; flex-direction: column; text-align: center; visibility: hidden; height: 40px; } [aria-label="our-partners"] .b-links-menu a { visibility: visible; } .apps { padding-top: 0.75rem; border-top: 2px solid #000; border-bottom: 2px solid #000; padding-bottom: 1rem; } [aria-label="our-partners"] .c-separator { --separator-content: var(--c-separator-content, none); display: block; margin-bottom: 0.2rem; } .static-footer-links { background-color: #333; padding: 1rem; display: block !important; margin-bottom: 0 !important; } .static-footer-links .static-footer-links-item { border-right: none; } .static-footer-links a { color: #fff !important; border-right: none; padding: 0.5rem; } } </style></div><div id="fusion-static-exit:html-block-f0fbv2KMxkeL6rG-8-0-0" style="display:none" data-fusion-component="html-block-f0fbv2KMxkeL6rG-8-0-0"></div><div class="c-stack b-footer" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><section class="b-footer__top-container"><div class="b-footer__social-links-container"><div class="c-stack b-footer__social-links" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="https://www.facebook.com/irishtimes/" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank"><svg class="c-icon" width="48" height="48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M504 256C504 119 393 8 256 8S8 119 8 256c0 123.78 90.69 226.38 209.25 245V327.69h-63V256h63v-54.64c0-62.15 37-96.48 93.67-96.48 27.14 0 55.52 4.84 55.52 4.84v61h-31.28c-30.8 0-40.41 19.12-40.41 38.73V256h68.78l-11 71.69h-57.78V501C413.31 482.38 504 379.78 504 256z"></path></svg><span class="visually-hidden">Facebook page</span></a><a class="c-link" href="https://twitter.com/IrishTimes" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank"><svg class="c-icon" width="48" height="48" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M389.2 48h70.6L305.6 224.2 487 464H345L233.7 318.6 106.5 464H35.8L200.7 275.5 26.8 48H172.4L272.9 180.9 389.2 48zM364.4 421.8h39.1L151.1 88h-42L364.4 421.8z"></path></svg><span class="visually-hidden">Twitter feed</span></a></div></div><p class="c-paragraph">© 2025 The Irish Times DAC</p></section><div class="c-grid b-footer__links"><div class="b-footer__links-group"><h3 class="c-heading">Subscribe</h3><ul class="b-footer__links-group-list"><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/your-subscription/subscription-tour">Why Subscribe?</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/subscribe">Subscription Bundles</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/subscriber-rewards/">Subscriber Rewards</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/subscribe/student/">Student Subscription</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="https://help.irishtimes.com/s/" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscription Help Centre<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="http://www.newsdelivery.ie" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Home Delivery<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a></li></ul></div><div class="b-footer__links-group"><h3 class="c-heading">Support</h3><ul class="b-footer__links-group-list"><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/about-us/contact-us">Contact Us</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="https://help.irishtimes.com/s/" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Help Centre<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/myaccount">My Account</a></li></ul></div><div class="b-footer__links-group"><h3 class="c-heading">About Us</h3><ul class="b-footer__links-group-list"><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/about-us/advertise">Advertise</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/about-us/contact-us">Contact Us</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/about-us/the-irish-times-trust/">The Irish Times Trust</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/about-us/career-opportunities">Careers</a></li></ul></div><div class="b-footer__links-group"><h3 class="c-heading">Irish Times Products & Services</h3><ul class="b-footer__links-group-list"><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/epaper">ePaper</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crosswords-puzzles/">Crosswords & puzzles</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/archive">Newspaper Archive</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="/newsletters">Newsletters</a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="https://www.irishtimes.com/article-index/" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Article Index<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a></li><li class="b-footer__links-group-list-item"><a class="c-link" href="https://discountcodes.irishtimes.com/" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Discount Codes<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a></li></ul></div></div><figure class="c-media-item"><img alt="The Irish Times" class="c-image b-footer__logo" src="https://static.themebuilder.aws.arc.pub/irishtimes/1647534191733.svg" height="64"/></figure><div></div></div><div id="fusion-static-enter:html-block-f0fcSRSNS9zi6b4-8-0-2" style="display:none" data-fusion-component="html-block-f0fcSRSNS9zi6b4-8-0-2"></div><div><div class="apps text-align_center" style="margin:0 auto;text-align:center;"> <span class="font_bold" style="display:block;"><b>Download the app</b></span> <a target="_blank" href="https://apps.apple.com/ie/developer/the-irish-times-ltd/id365544597"> <img alt="Download on the App Store" src="https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BJJKNJJHDJDGDDODHEER7FDH44.png" width="108" height="34" loading="lazy"></a>   <a target="_blank" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/developer?id=The+Irish+Times+Ltd"> <img alt="Download on Google Play" src="https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/T2XGUGDSUZCOZAYIQEKG2TWML4.png" width="108" height="34" loading="lazy"></a> </div> <style> .apps img{ margin-top:0.55rem; } .apps span{position:relative;display:block;margin-bottom:0;padding-bottom:0;color:#575757;font-size:1rem; } </style></div><div id="fusion-static-exit:html-block-f0fcSRSNS9zi6b4-8-0-2" style="display:none" data-fusion-component="html-block-f0fcSRSNS9zi6b4-8-0-2"></div><nav aria-label="our-partners" class="c-stack b-links-bar" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="center" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="wrap"><a class="c-link" href="https://www.myhome.ie" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">MyHome.ie<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="https://www.thegloss.ie" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">The Gloss<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="https://recruitireland.com/" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Recruit Ireland<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="https://www.irishtimestraining.com/" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Irish Times Training<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="https://rip.ie/" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">RIP.ie<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a></nav><hr class="c-divider"/></div></div></div></div></footer></div><ul class="c-stack b-static-footer-links-bar" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="center" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"> <li class="b-static-footer-links-bar__item "><a href="/policy-and-terms/terms-conditions/" class=" b-static-footer-links-bar__item-link">Terms & Conditions</a></li><li class="b-static-footer-links-bar__item "><a href="/policy-and-terms/privacy-policy/" class=" b-static-footer-links-bar__item-link">Privacy Policy</a></li><li class="b-static-footer-links-bar__item "><a href="/policy-and-terms/cookie-policy/" class=" b-static-footer-links-bar__item-link">Cookie Information</a></li><li class="b-static-footer-links-bar__item "><a href="#/" class="ot-sdk-show-settings b-static-footer-links-bar__item-link">Cookie Settings</a></li><li class="b-static-footer-links-bar__item "><a href="/policy-and-terms/community-standards/" class=" b-static-footer-links-bar__item-link">Community Standards</a></li><li class="b-static-footer-links-bar__item "><a href="/policy-and-terms/copyright/" class=" b-static-footer-links-bar__item-link">Copyright</a></li></ul></div><script id="fusion-metadata" type="application/javascript">window.Fusion=window.Fusion||{};Fusion.arcSite="irishtimes";Fusion.contextPath="/pf";Fusion.deployment="173";Fusion.globalContent={"_id":"/politics","_website":"irishtimes","name":"Politics","inactive":false,"Newsletter":{"description":"Our politics team's behind-the-scenes take on events of the day. Every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday when the Dáil sits","headline":"Inside Politics","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OKCK2X2KDBDT5EMX7RF3CQOLUQ.jpg","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/MOENYACS6VA77KV7ZXJ7HWR6UM.png","newsletterid":"Inside Politics [44]","newsletterpremium":"true","signingResponseTop":"4d50c5f881b0957201be522b008630e938347b4814515e28227fc91045940f7e","signingResponseSide":"708a648905c99242bb0ee34eedfaaaae85ded58548499ebd662a1bc32c74c6eb"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The latest political news, comment and analysis brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Politics | The Irish Times"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Politics"},"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"link-MWT7CPJ6Z906HA5HZY5HARQ548","_website":"irishtimes","display_name":"Poll","url":"/politics/poll/","parent":{"section-page-subnavs":"/politics","App-Hamburger":"/politics","hamburger-menu":"/politics","polls":null,"Election-2024":null},"order":{"section-page-subnavs":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"hamburger-menu":2001},"node_type":"link","children":[]},{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","navigation":{"nav_title":"Oireachtas"},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The latest Oireachtas news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Oireachtas | The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/politics/oireachtas"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Oireachtas","order":{"default":2001,"+ add":2001,"App-Hamburger":2002,"hamburger-menu":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2002},"parent":{"default":"/politics","+ add":"/politics","App-Hamburger":"/politics","hamburger-menu":"/politics","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/politics","section-page-subnavs":"/politics","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/politics"],"+ add":["/politics"],"App-Hamburger":["/politics","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/politics","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/politics"],"section-page-subnavs":["/politics","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"link-0E6835Q6ZN1N51MECUFGPT5E74","_website":"irishtimes","display_name":"Inside Politics Podcast","url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/","parent":{"hamburger-menu":null,"section-page-subnavs":"/politics"},"order":{"section-page-subnavs":2003},"node_type":"link","children":[]},{"_id":"link-WKNOGQCH25BFZFQSDRQTOIPPJ4","_website":"irishtimes","display_name":"Common Ground","url":"/common-ground/","parent":{"section-page-subnavs":"/politics"},"order":{"section-page-subnavs":2004},"node_type":"link","children":[]},{"_id":"link-NEXLKC3P6FGHTETMXIAACQJCZY","_website":"irishtimes","display_name":"Election 2024","url":"/election2024/","parent":{"section-page-subnavs":"/politics","App-Hamburger":"/politics","hamburger-menu":"/politics"},"order":{"section-page-subnavs":2005,"App-Hamburger":2004,"hamburger-menu":2004},"node_type":"link","children":[]},{"_id":"link-8RRAYZT2TN65HCHPB8CHE4QEPR","_website":"irishtimes","display_name":"Elections & Referendums","url":"/politics/elections-referendums/","parent":{"section-page-subnavs":"/politics","App-Hamburger":"/politics","hamburger-menu":"/politics"},"order":{"section-page-subnavs":2006,"App-Hamburger":2005,"hamburger-menu":2005},"node_type":"link","children":[]}],"Page":null,"Operator":"Section"};Fusion.globalContentConfig={"source":"site-service-hierarchy-it","query":{"sectionId":"/politics","hierarchy":"section-page-subnavs","arc-site":"irishtimes"}};Fusion.lastModified=1743500834851;Fusion.contentCache={"signing-service":{"{\"id\":\"https://static.themebuilder.aws.arc.pub/irishtimes/1647534191476.png\"}":{"data":{"hash":"631eeaa12e7a61c005c8eb0bbf348f785c131b10c4d6b25c28247a15965b5a36","type":"sha256","_id":"8bd659e252b82de6c27bac42028373920e436646b273a5c0296651a455305fed"},"expires":1775035916479,"lastModified":1743499916177}},"site-service-hierarchy":{"{\"feature\":\"header-nav-chain\",\"hierarchy\":\"hamburger-menu\"}":{"data":{"children":[{"_id":"link-MY7K0TYT012WZ0V1ZB8PHF0MJC","children":[],"display_name":"Home","node_type":"link","url":"/"},{"_id":"link-TB2EY564VN0N56D137NVP6G5MW","children":[],"display_name":"Latest","node_type":"link","url":"/latest/"},{"_id":"link-ZNGH139WJX4419P1E6XFB2YQBM","children":[],"display_name":"Subscriber Only","node_type":"link","url":"/subscriber-only/"},{"_id":"/crosswords-puzzles","children":[{"_id":"link-9RFF8NMDUX08917NND3Z3M1JDR","display_name":"Crosaire","node_type":"link","url":"/crosswords-puzzles/crosaire"},{"_id":"link-31JQ6NX1K92T907WWAU7P7R5RG","display_name":"Simplex","node_type":"link","url":"/crosswords-puzzles/simplex"},{"_id":"link-FVP3FUVCB93Z5DEH56JPZQA70C","display_name":"Sudoku","node_type":"link","url":"/crosswords-puzzles/sudoku"},{"_id":"link-OZWXQ6FKZNAJJGASG6FTFLQRC4","display_name":"News Quiz","node_type":"link","url":"/crosswords-puzzles/news-quiz/"}],"name":"Crosswords & Puzzles","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/ireland","children":[{"_id":"/ireland/dublin","name":"Dublin","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/ireland/education","name":"Education","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/ireland/housing-planning","name":"Housing & Planning","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/ireland/social-affairs","name":"Social Affairs","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"link-432NSPB3WJAAXKSTOTZHACT5EA","display_name":"Stardust","node_type":"link","url":"/ireland/stardust/"}],"name":"Ireland","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/politics","children":[{"_id":"link-MWT7CPJ6Z906HA5HZY5HARQ548","display_name":"Poll","node_type":"link","url":"/politics/poll/"},{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","name":"Oireachtas","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"link-OVTSEK2LEVCQ7GP5I7N7EIKPG4","display_name":"Common Ground","node_type":"link","url":"/common-ground/"},{"_id":"link-NEXLKC3P6FGHTETMXIAACQJCZY","display_name":"Election 2024","node_type":"link","url":"/election2024/"},{"_id":"link-8RRAYZT2TN65HCHPB8CHE4QEPR","display_name":"Elections & Referendums","node_type":"link","url":"/politics/elections-referendums/"}],"name":"Politics","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/opinion","children":[{"_id":"/opinion/editorials","name":"Editorials","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/opinion/an-irish-diary","name":"An Irish Diary","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/opinion/letters","name":"Letters","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/opinion/cartoon","name":"Cartoon","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Opinion","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/business","children":[{"_id":"/business/economy","name":"Economy","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/business/farming-food","name":"Farming & Food","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/business/financial-services","name":"Financial Services","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/business/innovation","name":"Innovation","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/business/markets","name":"Markets","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/business/work","name":"Work","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"link-WE72QDDTEN5EFDZ52U3CGYEZGC","display_name":"Commercial Property","node_type":"link","url":"/property/commercial-property"}],"name":"Business","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/world","children":[{"_id":"/world/europe","name":"Europe","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/world/uk","name":"UK","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/world/us","name":"US","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/world/canada","name":"Canada","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/world/australia","name":"Australia","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/world/africa","name":"Africa","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/world/americas","name":"Americas","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/world/asia-pacific","name":"Asia-Pacific","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/world/middle-east","name":"Middle East","node_type":"section"}],"name":"World","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/sport","children":[{"_id":"/sport/rugby","name":"Rugby","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"link-LLM3EYX2GRDYRCYWCJ6EI5XCZU","display_name":"Six Nations","node_type":"link","url":"/sport/six-nations/"},{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","name":"Gaelic Games","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/sport/soccer","name":"Soccer","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/sport/golf","name":"Golf","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/sport/racing","name":"Racing","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/sport/athletics","name":"Athletics","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/sport/boxing","name":"Boxing","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/sport/cycling","name":"Cycling","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/sport/hockey","name":"Hockey","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/sport/tennis","name":"Tennis","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Sport","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/your-money","children":[{"_id":"link-C1H4ZB3MP50VZ1C521YDGVJEXR","display_name":"Pricewatch","node_type":"link","url":"/tags/pricewatch"},{"_id":"link-Y4XAEWLBNJH7DOEQJ3UQ4UXOOU","display_name":"Budget 2025","node_type":"link","url":"/budget/"}],"name":"Your Money","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/crime-law","children":[{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","name":"Courts","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Crime & Law","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/property","children":[{"_id":"/property/residential","name":"Residential","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/property/commercial-property","name":"Commercial Property","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/property/interiors","name":"Interiors","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Property","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/food","children":[{"_id":"/food/drink","name":"Drink","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/food/recipes","name":"Recipes","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/food/restaurants","name":"Restaurants","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Food","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/health","children":[{"_id":"/health/your-family","name":"Your Family","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/health/your-fitness","name":"Your Fitness","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/health/your-wellness","name":"Your Wellness","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/health/your-fitness/get-running","name":"Get Running","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Health","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/life-style","children":[{"_id":"/life-style/fashion","name":"Fashion","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"link-54NMKENEB5ALXEEOCI6MUIRMDI","display_name":"Beauty","node_type":"link","url":"/tags/beauty/"},{"_id":"/life-style/fine-art-antiques","name":"Fine Art & Antiques","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/life-style/gardening","name":"Gardening","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/life-style/people","name":"People","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/life-style/travel","name":"Travel","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Life & Style","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/culture","children":[{"_id":"/culture/art","name":"Art","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/culture/books","name":"Books","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/culture/film","name":"Film","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/culture/music","name":"Music","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/culture/stage","name":"Stage","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/culture/tv-radio","name":"TV & Radio","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Culture","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/environment","children":[{"_id":"/environment/climate-crisis","name":"Climate Crisis","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Environment","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/technology","children":[{"_id":"/technology/big-tech","name":"Big Tech","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/technology/consumer-tech","name":"Consumer Tech","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/technology/data-security","name":"Data & Security","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/technology/gaming","name":"Gaming","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Technology","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/science","children":[{"_id":"/science/space","name":"Space","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Science","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/media","children":[],"name":"Media","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/abroad","children":[],"name":"Abroad","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/obituaries","children":[],"name":"Obituaries","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/transport","children":[],"name":"Transport","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/motors","children":[{"_id":"link-9JYG4R2HT934Q3XVN59UWD3R44","display_name":"Car Reviews","node_type":"link","url":"/motors/car-reviews/"}],"name":"Motors","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"link-TW6BFCQ2W149F0E26FF5PJ8AEM","children":[],"display_name":"Listen","node_type":"link","url":"/listen/"},{"_id":"/podcasts","children":[{"_id":"/podcasts/in-the-news","name":"In the News Podcast","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","name":"Inside Politics Podcast","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/podcasts/the-womens-podcast","name":"The Women's Podcast","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-business","name":"Inside Business Podcast","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/podcasts/ross-ocarroll-kelly","name":"Ross O'Carroll-Kelly","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/podcasts/the-counter-ruck","name":"The Counter Ruck Podcast","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/podcasts/conversations-with-parents","name":"Conversations with Parents Podcast","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Podcasts","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/video","children":[],"name":"Video","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/photography","children":[],"name":"Photography","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/history","children":[{"_id":"/history/century","name":"Century","node_type":"section"}],"name":"History","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/tuarascail","children":[],"name":"Tuarascáil","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/student-hub","children":[],"name":"Student Hub","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/offbeat","children":[],"name":"Offbeat","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"link-60C66RDFC91ZZ7GZUA0N497XAC","children":[],"display_name":"Family Notices","node_type":"link","url":"https://notices.irishtimes.com"},{"_id":"/sponsored","children":[{"_id":"/advertising-feature","name":"Advertising Feature","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/special-reports","name":"Special Reports","node_type":"section"}],"name":"Sponsored","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"link-20YXWFDCNH4233PCDANMHA4VT8","children":[],"display_name":"Subscriber Rewards","node_type":"link","url":"/subscriber-rewards/"},{"_id":"/competitions","children":[],"name":"Competitions","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"link-2YA5DNVQF928HEF4EKE1Q0AMEM","children":[],"display_name":"Weather Forecast","node_type":"link","url":"/weather/"}],"_id":"/"},"expires":1743500881741,"lastModified":1743500581692},"{\"feature\":\"footer\",\"hierarchy\":\"footer\"}":{"data":{"children":[{"_id":"/subscribe","children":[{"_id":"link-DGDAM5YPRN6XFDAP5JVDMNAVVC","display_name":"Why Subscribe?","node_type":"link","url":"/your-subscription/subscription-tour"},{"_id":"link-CM7751G0QH6MZDQGFJ2U872KJW","display_name":"Subscription Bundles","node_type":"link","url":"/subscribe"},{"_id":"link-20YXWFDCNH4233PCDANMHA4VT8","display_name":"Subscriber Rewards","node_type":"link","url":"/subscriber-rewards/"},{"_id":"link-INNQ4KIFSFDWHLJIC7INQXWWGY","display_name":"Student Subscription","node_type":"link","url":"/subscribe/student/"},{"_id":"link-MFHX19ZTJ90JDAV1MZWFRRRCBR","display_name":"Subscription Help Centre","node_type":"link","url":"https://help.irishtimes.com/s/"},{"_id":"link-5YM8CZDMVH2CQ08T2B33MHANWR","display_name":"Home Delivery","node_type":"link","url":"http://www.newsdelivery.ie"}],"name":"Subscribe","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/support","children":[{"_id":"link-G3XEUGHAGT79B4DJ5W73WNFQY0","display_name":"Contact Us","node_type":"link","url":"/about-us/contact-us"},{"_id":"link-C8T475KX5D1KDAW12U8Q12T5MC","display_name":"Help Centre","node_type":"link","url":"https://help.irishtimes.com/s/"},{"_id":"link-NV2UTHTYXX1EN982NWZ92BVPZW","display_name":"My Account","node_type":"link","url":"/myaccount"}],"name":"Support","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/about-us","children":[{"_id":"link-Z9KM76KCK1375DMR7HKZ3BAAYG","display_name":"Advertise","node_type":"link","url":"/about-us/advertise"},{"_id":"link-C0YP70N1BT3BTF13YZ3GQFFW5R","display_name":"Contact Us","node_type":"link","url":"/about-us/contact-us"},{"_id":"link-HPPYKQZRWN3T10Y4E0NXN002NC","display_name":"The Irish Times Trust","node_type":"link","url":"/about-us/the-irish-times-trust/"},{"_id":"link-YV5H3Y4TQH5AVE8N4AUH222RK4","display_name":"Careers","node_type":"link","url":"/about-us/career-opportunities"}],"name":"About Us","node_type":"section"},{"_id":"/product-and-services","children":[{"_id":"link-QR4AME90917AK29M6XVEJMX9N8","display_name":"ePaper","node_type":"link","url":"/epaper"},{"_id":"link-8XJ7X9GPZX2H11NJE3GWW45748","display_name":"Crosswords & puzzles","node_type":"link","url":"/crosswords-puzzles/"},{"_id":"link-B7ENRD4YCD77ZCV67531F5ZEP8","display_name":"Newspaper Archive","node_type":"link","url":"/archive"},{"_id":"link-7XMTETWQ05553ADVQ26YD2PN5M","display_name":"Newsletters","node_type":"link","url":"/newsletters"},{"_id":"link-QKK62NMCJT4751EU158MVUQ6J8","display_name":"Article Index","node_type":"link","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/article-index/"},{"_id":"link-1YQEPDVX8X06D9BVQXQZ2U9GWM","display_name":"Discount Codes","node_type":"link","url":"https://discountcodes.irishtimes.com/"}],"name":"Irish Times Products & Services","node_type":"section"}],"_id":"/"},"expires":1743500899493,"lastModified":1743500599446}},"site-service-hierarchy-it":{"{\"arcSite\":\"irishtimes\",\"hierarchy\":\"Logged-in-navigation\"}":{"data":{"children":[{"display_name":"My Account;Manage your account","url":"/myaccount"},{"display_name":"Digital Subscriptions; Frequently asked questions and support","url":"https://help.irishtimes.com"},{"display_name":"Subscriber Only Articles;Specially selected and available only to our subscribers","url":"/subscriber-only/"},{"display_name":"Crosswords & Puzzles;Digital Simplex and Crosaire crosswords","url":"/crosswords-puzzles/"},{"display_name":"Subscriber Rewards;Discover a selection of rewards just for you","url":"/subscriber-rewards/"},{"display_name":"Newsletters;Sign up to get the stories you want delivered to your inbox","url":"/newsletters/"},{"display_name":"Subscriber Tour;Explore the features of your subscription","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/your-subscription/subscription-tour"},{"display_name":"Newspaper Archive;150 years of Irish Times journalism","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/premium/loginpage"},{"display_name":"Mobile app;Our Apple and Android apps to read on the go","url":"/apps/"}],"_id":"/"},"expires":1743501126371,"lastModified":1743500826251},"{\"hierarchy\":\"\",\"sectionId\":\"\"}":{"data":{"_website":"irishtimes","_id":"/","name":"The Irish Times","node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/ireland","navigation":{"nav_title":"Ireland"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/ireland"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Ireland | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Latest Ireland news and breaking story updates from The Irish Times, the definitive brand of award-winning, in-depth journalism."},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Ireland","order":{"default":1001,"App-Hamburger":1006,"hamburger-menu":1006,"composer-relevant-sections":1001,"section-page-subnavs":1002,"App-Links-Navigation":1003,"sitemap-section":1001,"HP-under-masthead":1002},"parent":{"default":"/","links-bar":null,"Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"App-Hamburger":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":[],"navbar":[],"links-bar":[],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"],"sitemap-section":[],"HP-under-masthead":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/ireland/education","navigation":{"nav_title":"Education"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/ireland/education"]},"Newsletter":{"headline":"Classroom Central","description":"Your regular guide to the latest education news, analysis and opinion, as well as classroom resources, posters and lots more","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/sandbox.irishtimes/ZNXTZ2DRXNFU5MTNZFDVCVJJNE.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/sandbox.irishtimes/2FKX27RB4JBDLO36TMUMQH2EPE.jpg","newsletterid":"Classroom Central [187]"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Read the latest education news headlines, brought to you by The Irish Times, Ireland's definitive brand of quality news.","metadata_title":"Education | The Irish Times"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Education","order":{"hamburger-menu":2002,"App-Hamburger":2002,"HP-under-masthead":1013,"App-Links-Navigation":1014},"parent":{"default":"/ireland","hamburger-menu":"/ireland","App-Hamburger":"/ireland","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/ireland","section-page-subnavs":"/ireland","sitemap-section":null,"HP-under-masthead":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/ireland"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/ireland"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/ireland"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/ireland"],"section-page-subnavs":["/ireland"],"sitemap-section":[],"HP-under-masthead":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/ireland/dublin","navigation":{"nav_title":"Dublin"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/ireland/dublin"]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The latest Dublin news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Dublin | The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Dublin","order":{"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"HP-under-masthead":1014,"App-Links-Navigation":1015},"parent":{"default":"/ireland","hamburger-menu":"/ireland","App-Hamburger":"/ireland","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/ireland","section-page-subnavs":"/ireland","sitemap-section":null,"links-bar":null,"HP-under-masthead":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/ireland"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/ireland"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/ireland"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/ireland"],"section-page-subnavs":["/ireland"],"sitemap-section":[],"links-bar":[],"HP-under-masthead":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/ireland/housing-planning","navigation":{"nav_title":"Housing & Planning"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/ireland/housing-planning"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Housing & Planning | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Housing and Planning news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Housing & Planning","order":{"default":2003,"hamburger-menu":2003,"App-Hamburger":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2002},"parent":{"default":"/ireland","hamburger-menu":"/ireland","App-Hamburger":"/ireland","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/ireland","section-page-subnavs":"/ireland","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/ireland"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/ireland"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/ireland"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/ireland"],"section-page-subnavs":["/ireland"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/ireland/social-affairs","navigation":{"nav_title":"Social Affairs"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Social Affairs | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Social Affairs news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Newsletter":{"headline":null,"imagetop":null,"imageside":null,"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":[]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Social Affairs","order":{"default":2004,"+ add":2001,"App-Hamburger":2004,"hamburger-menu":2004,"composer-relevant-sections":2003,"section-page-subnavs":2003},"parent":{"default":"/ireland","+ add":"/ireland","App-Hamburger":"/ireland","hamburger-menu":"/ireland","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/ireland","section-page-subnavs":"/ireland","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/ireland"],"+ add":["/ireland"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/ireland"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/ireland"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/ireland"],"section-page-subnavs":["/ireland"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/opinion","navigation":{"nav_title":"Opinion"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/opinion"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Opinion | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest debate and opinion from The Irish Times, Ireland's definitive brand of quality opinion and news."},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Opinion","order":{"default":1002,"hamburger-menu":1008,"App-Hamburger":1008,"navbar":1001,"composer-relevant-sections":1003,"section-page-subnavs":1004,"App-Links-Navigation":1005,"sitemap-section":1002,"HP-under-masthead":1004},"parent":{"default":"/","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"App-Hamburger":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","links-bar":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"links-bar":[],"navbar":[],"footer":[],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"],"HP-under-masthead":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/opinion/cartoon","navigation":{"nav_title":"Cartoon"},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Martyn Turner cartoons and more brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Cartoon | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/opinion/cartoon"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Cartoon","parent":{"default":"/opinion","hamburger-menu":"/opinion","App-Hamburger":"/opinion","composer-relevant-sections":"/opinion","section-page-subnavs":"/opinion"},"ancestors":{"default":["/opinion"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/opinion"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/opinion"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/opinion"],"section-page-subnavs":["/","/opinion"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"hamburger-menu":2004,"App-Hamburger":2004,"composer-relevant-sections":2004,"section-page-subnavs":2004},"children":[]},{"_id":"/opinion/editorials","navigation":{"nav_title":"Editorials"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Editorials | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Editorial opinion and The Irish Times view on the issues that matter. Brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/opinion/editorials"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Editorials","order":{"default":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"hamburger-menu":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2001},"parent":{"default":"/opinion","App-Hamburger":"/opinion","hamburger-menu":"/opinion","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/opinion","section-page-subnavs":"/opinion","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"App-Hamburger":["/","/opinion"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/opinion"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/opinion/letters","navigation":{"nav_title":"Letters"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Letters | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The best Letters to the Editor brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/opinion/letters"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Letters","order":{"default":2002,"App-Hamburger":2004,"hamburger-menu":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2003},"parent":{"default":"/opinion","App-Hamburger":"/opinion","hamburger-menu":"/opinion","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/opinion","section-page-subnavs":"/opinion","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"App-Hamburger":["/","/opinion"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/opinion"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/opinion/an-irish-diary","navigation":{"nav_title":"An Irish Diary"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":[]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"An Irish Diary | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Daily An Irish Diary column by Frank McNally brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"An Irish Diary","order":{"default":2003,"hamburger-menu":2002,"App-Hamburger":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2003,"section-page-subnavs":2002},"parent":{"default":"/opinion","hamburger-menu":"/opinion","App-Hamburger":"/opinion","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/opinion","section-page-subnavs":"/opinion","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/opinion"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/opinion"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/corrections-clarifications","navigation":{"nav_title":"Corrections & Clarifications"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Corrections & Clarifications | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The Irish Times is committed to correcting or clarifying errors as soon as practicable"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/corrections-clarifications"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Corrections & Clarifications","order":{"default":2005,"sitemap-section":1033,"composer-relevant-sections":2005},"parent":{"default":"/opinion","hamburger-menu":null,"Comopser":null,"App-Hamburger":null,"section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":"/","composer-relevant-sections":"/opinion"},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/opinion"],"hamburger-menu":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/opinion"],"App-Hamburger":[],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/politics","_website":"irishtimes","name":"Politics","inactive":false,"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"navbar":[],"links-bar":[],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"],"HP-under-masthead":["/"],"our-partners":[],"polls":[],"Election-2024":[]},"parent":{"default":"/","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"App-Hamburger":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","links-bar":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/","our-partners":null,"polls":null,"Election-2024":null},"order":{"default":1003,"hamburger-menu":1007,"App-Hamburger":1007,"composer-relevant-sections":1003,"section-page-subnavs":1003,"App-Links-Navigation":1008,"sitemap-section":1003,"HP-under-masthead":1007},"Newsletter":{"description":"Our politics team's behind-the-scenes take on events of the day. Every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday when the Dáil sits","headline":"Inside Politics","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OKCK2X2KDBDT5EMX7RF3CQOLUQ.jpg","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/MOENYACS6VA77KV7ZXJ7HWR6UM.png","newsletterid":"Inside Politics [44]","newsletterpremium":"true"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/politics"]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The latest political news, comment and analysis brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Politics | The Irish Times"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Politics"},"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","navigation":{"nav_title":"Oireachtas"},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The latest Oireachtas news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Oireachtas | The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/politics/oireachtas"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Oireachtas","order":{"default":2001,"+ add":2001,"App-Hamburger":2002,"hamburger-menu":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2002},"parent":{"default":"/politics","+ add":"/politics","App-Hamburger":"/politics","hamburger-menu":"/politics","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/politics","section-page-subnavs":"/politics","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/politics"],"+ add":["/politics"],"App-Hamburger":["/politics","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/politics","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/politics"],"section-page-subnavs":["/politics","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/business","navigation":{"nav_title":"Business"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/business"]},"Newsletter":{"headline":"Business Today","description":"Get the latest business news and commentary from our expert business team in your inbox every weekday morning","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VR3765MFOBH2NMV2QNICYDF67M.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/GTR7XRAPLJD3PGG2545VG7UXNU.png","newsletterid":"Business Today [12]"},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":""},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The best news, analysis and comment brought to you daily by Ireland's definitive brand of quality business news.","metadata_title":"Business | The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Business","order":{"hamburger-menu":1009,"default":1004,"App-Hamburger":1009,"composer-relevant-sections":1004,"section-page-subnavs":1005,"App-Links-Navigation":1006,"sitemap-section":1004,"HP-under-masthead":1005,"Budget":1006},"parent":{"default":"/","Business-subnav":null,"Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"App-Hamburger":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/","Budget":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"links-bar":[],"footer":[],"navbar":[],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"Business-subnav":[],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"],"HP-under-masthead":["/"],"Budget":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/business/farming-food","navigation":{"nav_title":"Farming & Food"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Farming & Food | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Latest Farming & Food news, analysis and comment, brought to you daily by Ireland's definitive brand of quality Business journalism. Read The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/business/farming-food"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Farming & Food","order":{"hamburger-menu":2002,"App-Hamburger":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2002},"parent":{"default":"/business","Business-subnav":null,"hamburger-menu":"/business","App-Hamburger":"/business","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/business","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/business"],"Business-subnav":[],"hamburger-menu":["/","/business"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/business"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/business"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/business/economy","navigation":{"nav_title":"Economy"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Latest economic news, analysis and comment, brought to you daily by Ireland's definitive brand of quality Business journalism.","metadata_title":"Economy | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/business/economy"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Economy","order":{"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2001},"parent":{"default":"/business","Business-subnav":null,"hamburger-menu":"/business","App-Hamburger":"/business","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/business","section-page-subnavs":"/business","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/business"],"Business-subnav":[],"hamburger-menu":["/","/business"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/business"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/business"],"section-page-subnavs":["/business","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/business/financial-services","navigation":{"nav_title":"Financial Services"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Financial Services | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Latest Financial news, analysis and comment, brought to you daily by Ireland's definitive brand of quality Business journalism. Read The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":[]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Financial Services","order":{"hamburger-menu":2003,"App-Hamburger":2004,"section-page-subnavs":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2003},"parent":{"default":"/business","Business-subnav":null,"hamburger-menu":"/business","App-Hamburger":"/business","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/business","section-page-subnavs":"/business","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/business"],"Business-subnav":[],"hamburger-menu":["/","/business"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/business"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/business"],"section-page-subnavs":["/business","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/business/innovation","navigation":{"nav_title":"Innovation"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Latest news, analysis and comment, brought to you daily by Ireland's definitive brand of quality Business journalism. Read The Irish Times","metadata_title":"Innovation | The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":[]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Innovation","order":{"default":2004,"App-Hamburger":2005,"hamburger-menu":2004,"composer-relevant-sections":2004,"section-page-subnavs":2003},"parent":{"default":"/business","Business-subnav":null,"App-Hamburger":"/business","hamburger-menu":"/business","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/business","section-page-subnavs":"/business","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/business"],"Business-subnav":[],"App-Hamburger":["/","/business"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/business"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/business"],"section-page-subnavs":["/business","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/business/markets","navigation":{"nav_title":"Markets"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Latest Markets news, analysis and comment, brought to you daily by Ireland's definitive brand of quality Business journalism. Read The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Markets | The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/business/markets"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Markets","order":{"default":2005,"App-Hamburger":2006,"hamburger-menu":2005,"composer-relevant-sections":2005,"section-page-subnavs":2004},"parent":{"default":"/business","Business-subnav":null,"App-Hamburger":"/business","hamburger-menu":"/business","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/business","section-page-subnavs":"/business","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/business"],"Business-subnav":[],"App-Hamburger":["/","/business"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/business"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/business"],"section-page-subnavs":["/business","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/business/work","navigation":{"nav_title":""},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Latest Work and Employment news, analysis and comment, brought to you daily by Ireland's definitive brand of quality Business journalism. Read The Irish Times","metadata_title":"Work | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/business/work"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Work","order":{"default":2006,"App-Hamburger":2007,"hamburger-menu":2006,"composer-relevant-sections":2006,"section-page-subnavs":2005},"parent":{"default":"/business","Business-subnav":null,"App-Hamburger":"/business","hamburger-menu":"/business","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/business","section-page-subnavs":"/business","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/business"],"Business-subnav":[],"App-Hamburger":["/","/business"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/business"],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/business"],"section-page-subnavs":["/business","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/your-money","navigation":{"nav_title":"Your Money"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/your-money"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Your Money | Personal Finance & Money Insights | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Consumer and personal finance news, analysis, advice including Conor Pope's Pricewatch column and Dominic Coyle's Q&A series brought to you by Ireland's quality news brand, The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"On The Money","description":"Our weekly personal finance newsletter will give you the insight you need to save money and make smart spending decisions","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6BDEAESQEJH4BHNFRSVZH3W4TM.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/C5IJRWJKRVHG3EOKA5ZIM32SD4.png","newsletterid":"On The Money [583]","newsletterpremium":"true"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Your Money","order":{"default":1005,"hamburger-menu":1012,"App-Hamburger":1012,"navbar":1006,"composer-relevant-sections":1005,"section-page-subnavs":1008,"App-Links-Navigation":1010,"sitemap-section":1005,"HP-under-masthead":1009,"Budget":1005},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","links-bar":null,"Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/","Budget":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":[],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"links-bar":[],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"],"sitemap-section":[],"HP-under-masthead":["/"],"Budget":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/world","navigation":{"nav_title":"World"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Read the latest World news, brought to you daily from Ireland's quality news brand. Read the best news, analysis and comment by Irish Times correspondents around the world","metadata_title":"World | The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/world"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"World","order":{"default":1006,"App-Hamburger":1010,"hamburger-menu":1010,"composer-relevant-sections":1006,"section-page-subnavs":1006,"App-Links-Navigation":1004,"sitemap-section":1006,"HP-under-masthead":1003},"parent":{"default":"/","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"App-Hamburger":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/"},"ancestors":{"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"],"HP-under-masthead":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/world/africa","navigation":{"nav_title":"Africa"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Africa | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Africa news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/world/africa"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Africa","order":{"+ add":2001,"App-Hamburger":2006,"hamburger-menu":2006,"section-page-subnavs":2007},"parent":{"default":"/world","+ add":"/world","App-Hamburger":"/world","hamburger-menu":"/world","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/world","section-page-subnavs":"/world","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"+ add":["/world"],"App-Hamburger":["/world","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/world","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/world","/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/world/americas","navigation":{"nav_title":"Americas"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Americas | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Americas news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/world/americas"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Americas","order":{"default":2002,"+ add":2002,"App-Hamburger":2007,"hamburger-menu":2007,"composer-relevant-sections":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2008},"parent":{"default":"/world","+ add":"/world","App-Hamburger":"/world","hamburger-menu":"/world","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/world","section-page-subnavs":"/world","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"+ add":["/world"],"App-Hamburger":["/world","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/world","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/world","/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/world/asia-pacific","navigation":{"nav_title":"Asia-Pacific"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Asia-Pacific | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Asia-Pacific news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/world/asia-pacific"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Asia-Pacific","order":{"default":2003,"+ add":2003,"App-Hamburger":2008,"hamburger-menu":2008,"composer-relevant-sections":2003,"section-page-subnavs":2009},"parent":{"default":"/world","+ add":"/world","App-Hamburger":"/world","hamburger-menu":"/world","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/world","section-page-subnavs":"/world","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"+ add":["/world"],"App-Hamburger":["/world","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/world","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/world","/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/world/australia","navigation":{"nav_title":"Australia"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Australia | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Australia news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/world/australia"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Australia","order":{"default":2004,"+ add":2004,"App-Hamburger":2005,"hamburger-menu":2005,"composer-relevant-sections":2004,"section-page-subnavs":2006},"parent":{"default":"/world","+ add":"/world","App-Hamburger":"/world","hamburger-menu":"/world","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/world","section-page-subnavs":"/world","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"+ add":["/world"],"App-Hamburger":["/world","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/world","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/world","/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/world/canada","navigation":{"nav_title":"Canada"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Canada | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Canada news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/world/canada"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Canada","order":{"default":2005,"+ add":2005,"App-Hamburger":2004,"hamburger-menu":2004,"composer-relevant-sections":2005,"section-page-subnavs":2005},"parent":{"default":"/world","+ add":"/world","App-Hamburger":"/world","hamburger-menu":"/world","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/world","section-page-subnavs":"/world","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"+ add":["/world"],"App-Hamburger":["/world","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/world","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/world","/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/world/europe","navigation":{"nav_title":"Europe"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Europe | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Europe news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/world/europe"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Europe","order":{"default":2006,"+ add":2006,"App-Hamburger":2001,"hamburger-menu":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2006,"section-page-subnavs":2001},"parent":{"default":"/world","+ add":"/world","App-Hamburger":"/world","hamburger-menu":"/world","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/world","section-page-subnavs":"/world","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"+ add":["/world"],"App-Hamburger":["/world","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/world","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/world","/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/world/middle-east","navigation":{"nav_title":"Middle East"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Middle East | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Middle East news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/world/middle-east"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Middle East","order":{"default":2007,"App-Hamburger":2009,"composer-relevant-sections":2007,"hamburger-menu":2009,"section-page-subnavs":2010},"parent":{"default":"/world","App-Hamburger":"/world","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/world","hamburger-menu":"/world","section-page-subnavs":"/world","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"App-Hamburger":["/world","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"hamburger-menu":["/world","/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/world","/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/world/uk","navigation":{"nav_title":"UK"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"UK | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest UK news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/world/uk"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"UK","order":{"default":2008,"+ add":2007,"App-Hamburger":2002,"hamburger-menu":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2008,"section-page-subnavs":2003},"parent":{"default":"/world","+ add":"/world","App-Hamburger":"/world","hamburger-menu":"/world","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/world","section-page-subnavs":"/world","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"+ add":["/world"],"App-Hamburger":["/world","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/world","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/world","/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/world/us","navigation":{"nav_title":"US"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"US | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest US news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/world/us"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"US","order":{"default":2009,"+ add":2008,"App-Hamburger":2003,"hamburger-menu":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2009,"section-page-subnavs":2004},"parent":{"default":"/world","+ add":"/world","App-Hamburger":"/world","hamburger-menu":"/world","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/world","section-page-subnavs":"/world","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"+ add":["/world"],"App-Hamburger":["/world","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/world","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/world","/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/sport","navigation":{"nav_title":"Sport"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/sport"]},"Newsletter":{"headline":"Sports Briefing","description":"Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/YVIRIOZQ35EWRPZXR27KGMO6YU.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/QMEOMIN33ZBDLBU25BRJVGZHXM.jpg","newsletterid":"Morning Sport Briefing [32]","newsletterpremium":"true"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Sport | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Sport news, results & fixtures with the best in-depth analysis and features brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Sport","order":{"hamburger-menu":1011,"default":1007,"App-Hamburger":1011,"navbar":1003,"composer-relevant-sections":1007,"Comopser":1001,"section-page-subnavs":1007,"App-Links-Navigation":1007,"sitemap-section":1007,"HP-under-masthead":1006},"parent":{"default":"/","links-bar":null,"Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"App-Hamburger":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","MiniSiteDemo":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":"/","composer-relevant-sections":"/","Logged-in-navigation":null,"section-page-subnavs":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/","Election-2024":null,"polls":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"links-bar":[],"footer":[],"navbar":[],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"consumer":[],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"MiniSiteDemo":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":["/"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"Logged-in-navigation":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"],"HP-under-masthead":["/"],"Election-2024":[],"polls":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","navigation":{"nav_title":"Gaelic Games"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"All the latest GAA News, Results & Fixtures, brought to you as it happens, including sports analysis and results from Ireland and around the world.","metadata_title":"Gaelic Games | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/sport/gaelic-games"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Gaelic Games","order":{"default":2001,"+ add":2003,"App-Hamburger":2003,"hamburger-menu":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2003},"parent":{"default":"/sport","links-bar":null,"+ add":"/sport","App-Hamburger":"/sport","hamburger-menu":"/sport","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/sport","section-page-subnavs":"/sport","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"links-bar":[],"default":["/","/sport"],"+ add":["/sport"],"App-Hamburger":["/sport","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/sport","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/sport"],"section-page-subnavs":["/sport","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/sport/rugby","navigation":{"nav_title":"Rugby"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/sport/rugby"]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"All the latest Rugby News, Results & Fixtures, brought to you as it happens, including sports analysis and results from Ireland and around the world.","metadata_title":"Rugby | The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"The Counter Ruck","description":"Sign up to the Irish Times weekly rugby digest for the view from the press box with Gerry Thornley","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IMNWKIX5DFFCFE5CD5NLBU6EVY.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/XYFOEW7R7NGUTHDK3RDAQ2YHSA.png","newsletterid":"The Counter Ruck [654]","newsletterpremium":"false"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Rugby","order":{"default":2002,"+ add":2002,"App-Hamburger":2001,"hamburger-menu":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2001},"parent":{"default":"/sport","links-bar":null,"+ add":"/sport","App-Hamburger":"/sport","hamburger-menu":"/sport","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/sport","section-page-subnavs":"/sport","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/sport"],"links-bar":[],"navbar":[],"+ add":["/sport"],"App-Hamburger":["/sport","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/sport","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/sport"],"section-page-subnavs":["/sport","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/sport/soccer","navigation":{"nav_title":"Soccer"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/sport/soccer"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Soccer | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"All the latest Football News, Results & Fixtures, brought to you as it happens, including sports analysis and results from Ireland and around the world."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Soccer","order":{"default":2003,"+ add":2006,"App-Hamburger":2004,"hamburger-menu":2004,"composer-relevant-sections":2003,"section-page-subnavs":2004},"parent":{"default":"/sport","+ add":"/sport","App-Hamburger":"/sport","hamburger-menu":"/sport","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/sport","section-page-subnavs":"/sport","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/sport"],"navbar":[],"+ add":["/sport"],"App-Hamburger":["/sport","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/sport","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/sport"],"section-page-subnavs":["/sport","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/sport/golf","navigation":{"nav_title":"Golf"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Golf | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"All the latest Golf News, Results & Fixtures, brought to you as it happens, including sports analysis and results from Ireland and around the world."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/sport/golf"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Golf","order":{"+ add":2004,"App-Hamburger":2005,"hamburger-menu":2005,"default":2004,"composer-relevant-sections":2004,"section-page-subnavs":2005},"parent":{"default":"/sport","+ add":"/sport","App-Hamburger":"/sport","hamburger-menu":"/sport","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/sport","section-page-subnavs":"/sport","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/sport"],"+ add":["/sport"],"App-Hamburger":["/sport","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/sport","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/sport"],"section-page-subnavs":["/sport","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/sport/racing","navigation":{"nav_title":"Racing"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Racing | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"All the latest Horse Racing News, Times & Winners, brought to you as it happens, including sports analysis and results from Ireland and around the world."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/sport/racing"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Racing","order":{"+ add":2005,"App-Hamburger":2006,"hamburger-menu":2006,"default":2005,"composer-relevant-sections":2005,"section-page-subnavs":2006},"parent":{"default":"/sport","+ add":"/sport","App-Hamburger":"/sport","hamburger-menu":"/sport","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/sport","section-page-subnavs":"/sport","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/sport"],"+ add":["/sport"],"App-Hamburger":["/sport","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/sport","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/sport"],"section-page-subnavs":["/sport","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/sport/athletics","navigation":{"nav_title":"Athletics"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Athletics | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"All the latest Athletics News, Results & Fixtures, brought to you as it happens, including sports analysis and results from Ireland and around the world."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/sport/athletics"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Athletics","order":{"+ add":2001,"App-Hamburger":2007,"hamburger-menu":2007,"default":2006,"composer-relevant-sections":2006,"section-page-subnavs":2007},"parent":{"default":"/sport","+ add":"/sport","App-Hamburger":"/sport","hamburger-menu":"/sport","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/sport","section-page-subnavs":"/sport","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/sport"],"+ add":["/sport"],"App-Hamburger":["/sport","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/sport","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/sport"],"section-page-subnavs":["/sport","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/sport/boxing","navigation":{"nav_title":"Boxing"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Boxing | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"All the latest Boxing News, Results & Fixtures, brought to you as it happens, including sports analysis and results from Ireland and around the world."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/sport/boxing"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Boxing","order":{"default":2007,"hamburger-menu":2008,"App-Hamburger":2008,"composer-relevant-sections":2007,"section-page-subnavs":2008},"parent":{"default":"/sport","hamburger-menu":"/sport","App-Hamburger":"/sport","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/sport","section-page-subnavs":"/sport","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/sport"],"hamburger-menu":["/sport","/"],"App-Hamburger":["/sport","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/sport"],"section-page-subnavs":["/sport","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/sport/cycling","navigation":{"nav_title":"Cycling"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Cycling | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"All the latest Cycling News, Results & Fixtures, brought to you as it happens, including sports analysis and results from Ireland and around the world."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/sport/cycling"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Cycling","order":{"default":2008,"App-Hamburger":2009,"hamburger-menu":2009,"composer-relevant-sections":2008,"section-page-subnavs":2009},"parent":{"default":"/sport","App-Hamburger":"/sport","hamburger-menu":"/sport","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/sport","section-page-subnavs":"/sport","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/sport"],"App-Hamburger":["/sport","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/sport","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/sport"],"section-page-subnavs":["/sport","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/sport/hockey","navigation":{"nav_title":"Hockey"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Hockey | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"All the latest Hockey News, Results & Fixtures, brought to you as it happens, including sports analysis and results from Ireland and around the world."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/sport/hockey"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Hockey","order":{"default":2009,"App-Hamburger":2010,"hamburger-menu":2010,"composer-relevant-sections":2009,"section-page-subnavs":2010},"parent":{"default":"/sport","App-Hamburger":"/sport","hamburger-menu":"/sport","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/sport","section-page-subnavs":"/sport","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/sport"],"App-Hamburger":["/sport","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/sport","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/sport"],"section-page-subnavs":["/sport","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/sport/tennis","navigation":{"nav_title":"Tennis"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Tennis | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"All the latest Tennis News, Results & Fixtures, brought to you as it happens, including sports analysis and results from Ireland and around the world."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/sport/tennis"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Tennis","order":{"default":2010,"App-Hamburger":2011,"hamburger-menu":2011,"composer-relevant-sections":2010,"section-page-subnavs":2011},"parent":{"default":"/sport","App-Hamburger":"/sport","hamburger-menu":"/sport","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/sport","section-page-subnavs":"/sport","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/sport"],"App-Hamburger":["/sport","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/sport","/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/sport"],"section-page-subnavs":["/sport","/"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/life-style","navigation":{"nav_title":"Life & Style"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/life-style"]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The latest Life & Style news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Life & Style | The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Life & Style","order":{"default":1008,"hamburger-menu":1017,"App-Hamburger":1017,"composer-relevant-sections":1008,"section-page-subnavs":1013,"App-Links-Navigation":1013,"sitemap-section":1008,"HP-under-masthead":1012},"parent":{"default":"/","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":[],"links-bar":[],"navbar":[],"footer":[],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"],"sitemap-section":[],"HP-under-masthead":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/life-style/people","navigation":{"nav_title":"People"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"People | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"People news, features and interviews brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/life-style/people"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/6kTMSMIFcdnj5Oai4kiTMJ","Google":"https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5hY2FzdC5jb20vcHVibGljL3Nob3dzLzhlMjJiMTAwLTA3ODktNWYyMy1iNDI1LTgxZjQ2ZGQxNWUzNg","Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/ross-ocarroll-kelly/id1005100505?mt=2","Acast":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/8e22b100-0789-5f23-b425-81f46dd15e36"}},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"People","order":{"hamburger-menu":2005,"App-Hamburger":2005,"section-page-subnavs":2005},"parent":{"default":"/life-style","hamburger-menu":"/life-style","App-Hamburger":"/life-style","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/life-style","section-page-subnavs":"/life-style","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/life-style"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/life-style"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/life-style/travel","navigation":{"nav_title":"Travel"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Travel news, tips, trends and features brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Travel | The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/life-style/travel"]},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Travel","order":{"default":2002,"hamburger-menu":2006,"App-Hamburger":2006,"composer-relevant-sections":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2006},"parent":{"default":"/life-style","hamburger-menu":"/life-style","App-Hamburger":"/life-style","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/life-style","section-page-subnavs":"/life-style","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/life-style"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/life-style"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/life-style/fashion","_website":"irishtimes","name":"Fashion","inactive":false,"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/life-style"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/life-style"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"parent":{"default":"/life-style","hamburger-menu":"/life-style","App-Hamburger":"/life-style","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/life-style","section-page-subnavs":"/life-style","sitemap-section":null},"order":{"default":2003,"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2003,"section-page-subnavs":2001},"Newsletter":{"description":"Keep up to date with the glossiest fashion news, looks and trends for you and your home. Make sure you never miss a copy of The Gloss","headline":"The Gloss","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/25FGI4R7IRBOFIIF35WMQY7HCQ.jpg","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VMDV4FSMPJHYNKHGGXXFVVUF3I.png","newsletterid":"The Gloss [47]","newsletterpremium":"false"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/life-style/fashion"]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The latest Fashion news, trends tips and advice brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Fashion | The Irish Times"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Fashion"},"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/life-style/gardening","navigation":{"nav_title":"Gardening"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Gardening | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Essential news, views and features about gardening, plants and pests brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/life-style/gardening"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"Food & Drink club [75]","headline":"Food & Drink Club","description":"Exclusive competitions and restaurant offers, plus reviews, the latest food and drink news, recipes and lots more","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NPJMN3AYLNETTP2G4OAHNBE4ZM.png","imageside":"https://irishtimes-irishtimes-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/CKfL_TNSzqac9PRqpXHtAiPora0=/arc-photo-irishtimes/eu-central-1-prod/public/E2X6UJYXMFELJEM5W4T7VEYLNA.jpg","newsletterpremium":"false"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Gardening","order":{"default":2004,"hamburger-menu":2004,"App-Hamburger":2004,"composer-relevant-sections":2004,"section-page-subnavs":2004},"parent":{"default":"/life-style","hamburger-menu":"/life-style","App-Hamburger":"/life-style","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/life-style","section-page-subnavs":"/life-style","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/life-style"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/life-style"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/life-style"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/life-style/fine-art-antiques","navigation":{"nav_title":"Fine Art & Antiques"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Essential news, views and features about buying and selling art, antiques and collectibles brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Fine Art & Antiques | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/life-style/fine-art-antiques"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"The Gloss","description":"Keep up to date with fashion news and trends for you and your home. Never miss a copy of The Gloss or The Gloss Interiors","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OG5QU2VZIJDGHESOL2AKTLF2IU.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/25FGI4R7IRBOFIIF35WMQY7HCQ.jpg","newsletterid":"The Gloss [47]","newsletterpremium":"false"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Fine Art & Antiques","order":{"default":2005,"hamburger-menu":2003,"App-Hamburger":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2005,"section-page-subnavs":2003},"parent":{"default":"/life-style","hamburger-menu":"/life-style","App-Hamburger":"/life-style","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/life-style","section-page-subnavs":"/life-style","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/life-style"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/life-style"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/health","navigation":{"nav_title":"Health"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/health"]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The latest Health news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Health | The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Health","order":{"default":1009,"+ add":1008,"hamburger-menu":1016,"App-Hamburger":1016,"composer-relevant-sections":1009,"section-page-subnavs":1012,"sitemap-section":1009},"parent":{"default":"/","+ add":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","App-Links-Navigation":null,"sitemap-section":"/","links-bar":null},"ancestors":{"default":[],"navbar":[],"+ add":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":[],"sitemap-section":[],"links-bar":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/health/your-family","navigation":{"nav_title":"Your Family"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/health/your-family"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Your Family | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Family and parenting news, including advice on newborns, babies, toddlers, children, teens, pregnancy, fertility and more brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Your Family","order":{"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"default":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2001},"parent":{"default":"/health","hamburger-menu":"/health","App-Hamburger":"/health","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/health","section-page-subnavs":"/health","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/health"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/health"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/health"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/health"],"section-page-subnavs":["/health"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/health/your-fitness","navigation":{"nav_title":"Your Fitness"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/health/your-fitness"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Your Fitness | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Your Fitness, the best techniques, tips and tricks, with news, advice and much more brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Your Fitness","order":{"default":2002,"hamburger-menu":2002,"App-Hamburger":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2002},"parent":{"default":"/health","hamburger-menu":"/health","App-Hamburger":"/health","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/health","section-page-subnavs":"/health","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/health"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/health"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/health"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/health"],"section-page-subnavs":["/health"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/health/your-fitness/get-running","navigation":{"nav_title":"Get Running"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Sign up for The Irish Times Get Running course. Go from the couch to running 30 minutes non-stop and train for 5k and 10k events.","metadata_title":"Get Running | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/health/your-fitness/get-running"]},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"Get Running","newsletterpremium":"false"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Get Running","order":{"composer-relevant-sections":3001,"section-page-subnavs":3001,"hamburger-menu":2004,"App-Hamburger":2004},"parent":{"default":"/health/your-fitness","section-page-subnavs":"/health/your-fitness","composer-relevant-sections":"/health/your-fitness","hamburger-menu":"/health","App-Hamburger":"/health"},"ancestors":{"default":["/health","/health/your-fitness"],"section-page-subnavs":["/health","/health/your-fitness"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/health","/health/your-fitness"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/health"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/health"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/health/your-wellness","navigation":{"nav_title":"Your Wellness"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/health/your-wellness"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Your Wellness | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Latest Wellbeing news advice and comment, including tips and advice for staying healthy in body and mind brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Your Wellness","order":{"default":2003,"hamburger-menu":2003,"App-Hamburger":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2003,"section-page-subnavs":2003},"parent":{"default":"/health","hamburger-menu":"/health","App-Hamburger":"/health","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/health","section-page-subnavs":"/health","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/health"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/health"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/health"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/health"],"section-page-subnavs":["/health"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/technology","navigation":{"nav_title":"Technology"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Technology | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Latest Technology Industry News headlines, brought to you daily from Ireland's Definitive Brand of Quality Business News. Read The Irish Times Online."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/technology"]},"Newsletter":{"headline":"Business Today","description":"Get the latest business news and commentary from our expert business team in your inbox every weekday morning","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/sandbox.irishtimes/GW3FWAURWFGM7FF4RMYJLBG7ZI.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/sandbox.irishtimes/SDOG44DIT5EYBDJRQV2A5BJOLQ.png","newsletterid":"Business Today [12]","newsletterpremium":"false"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Technology","order":{"default":1010,"hamburger-menu":1020,"App-Hamburger":1020,"navbar":1005,"composer-relevant-sections":1010,"section-page-subnavs":1016,"sitemap-section":1010},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/technology/big-tech","navigation":{"nav_title":"Big Tech"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/technology/big-tech"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Big Tech | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Big Tech news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Big Tech","order":{"default":2001,"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2001},"parent":{"default":"/technology","hamburger-menu":"/technology","App-Hamburger":"/technology","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/technology","section-page-subnavs":"/technology","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/technology"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/technology"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/technology"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/technology"],"section-page-subnavs":["/technology"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/technology/consumer-tech","navigation":{"nav_title":"Consumer Tech"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Consumer Tech | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Consumer Tech news, reviews, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/technology/consumer-tech"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Consumer Tech","order":{"default":2002,"hamburger-menu":2002,"App-Hamburger":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2002},"parent":{"default":"/technology","hamburger-menu":"/technology","App-Hamburger":"/technology","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/technology","section-page-subnavs":"/technology","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/technology"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/technology"],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/technology/data-security","navigation":{"nav_title":"Data & Security"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/technology/data-security"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Data & Security | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Data & Security news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Data & Security","order":{"default":2003,"hamburger-menu":2003,"App-Hamburger":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2003,"section-page-subnavs":2003},"parent":{"default":"/technology","hamburger-menu":"/technology","App-Hamburger":"/technology","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/technology","section-page-subnavs":"/technology","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/technology"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/technology"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/technology"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/technology"],"section-page-subnavs":["/technology"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/technology/gaming","navigation":{"nav_title":"Gaming"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/technology/gaming"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Gaming | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Gaming news, reviews and features brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Gaming","order":{"default":2004,"hamburger-menu":2004,"App-Hamburger":2004,"composer-relevant-sections":2004,"section-page-subnavs":2004},"parent":{"default":"/technology","hamburger-menu":"/technology","App-Hamburger":"/technology","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/technology","section-page-subnavs":"/technology","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/technology"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/technology"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/technology"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/technology"],"section-page-subnavs":["/technology"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/crime-law","navigation":{"nav_title":"Crime & Law"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Crime & Law | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Crime & Law news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/crime-law"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Crime & Law","order":{"default":1011,"hamburger-menu":1013,"App-Hamburger":1013,"navbar":1003,"composer-relevant-sections":1011,"section-page-subnavs":1009,"sitemap-section":1011},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","navigation":{"nav_title":"Courts"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Courts | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest news, analysis and comment from the courts brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/crime-law/courts"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Courts","order":{"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001},"parent":{"default":"/crime-law","hamburger-menu":"/crime-law","App-Hamburger":"/crime-law","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/crime-law","section-page-subnavs":"/crime-law","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/crime-law"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/crime-law"],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/","/crime-law"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/science","navigation":{"nav_title":"Science"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Science | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Read the latest science news, analysis and comment, brought to you daily from Ireland's quality news brand. Read The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/science"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Science","order":{"default":1012,"hamburger-menu":1021,"App-Hamburger":1021,"navbar":1004,"composer-relevant-sections":1012,"section-page-subnavs":1017,"sitemap-section":1012},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/science/space","navigation":{"nav_title":"Space"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Space | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Read the latest Space news and features brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/science/space"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Space","order":{"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001},"parent":{"default":"/science","hamburger-menu":"/science","App-Hamburger":"/science","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/science","section-page-subnavs":"/science","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/science"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/science"],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/transport","navigation":{"nav_title":"Transport"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Transport | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Read the latest Transport News headlines, brought to you daily from Ireland's Definitive Brand of Quality News. Read The Irish Times Online."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/transport"]},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Transport","order":{"default":1013,"hamburger-menu":1025,"App-Hamburger":1025,"navbar":1005,"composer-relevant-sections":1013,"section-page-subnavs":1021,"sitemap-section":1013},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/culture","navigation":{"nav_title":"Culture"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/culture"]},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"Book Club [17]","headline":"Book Club","description":"Sign up to the Irish Times books newsletter for features, podcasts and more","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SJQTLMCMMRC2PLALXUKEWWS6HU.png","imageside":"https://irishtimes-irishtimes-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/t1B3oP9mDm5T_WnwFGB0XcR3GaQ=/arc-photo-irishtimes/eu-central-1-prod/public/OACS3AMXAZAU5IJWIED4LGZP6U.jpg","newsletterpremium":"false"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Culture | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"News, reviews, interviews and comment from the world of Culture and Entertainment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Culture","order":{"default":1014,"+ add":1009,"App-Hamburger":1018,"hamburger-menu":1018,"navbar":1001,"composer-relevant-sections":1014,"section-page-subnavs":1014,"App-Links-Navigation":1009,"sitemap-section":1014,"HP-under-masthead":1008},"parent":{"default":"/","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"App-Hamburger":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":[],"links-bar":[],"navbar":[],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"],"sitemap-section":[],"HP-under-masthead":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/culture/music","navigation":{"nav_title":"Music"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Music news, reviews, interviews and more from the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Music | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/culture/music"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Music","order":{"default":2001,"hamburger-menu":2004,"App-Hamburger":2004,"composer-relevant-sections":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2004},"parent":{"default":"/culture","hamburger-menu":"/culture","App-Hamburger":"/culture","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/culture","section-page-subnavs":"/culture","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/culture"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/culture"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/culture/stage","navigation":{"nav_title":"Stage"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Theatre news, reviews, interviews and more from the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Stage | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/culture/stage"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Stage","order":{"default":2002,"hamburger-menu":2005,"App-Hamburger":2005,"composer-relevant-sections":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2005},"parent":{"default":"/culture","hamburger-menu":"/culture","App-Hamburger":"/culture","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/culture","section-page-subnavs":"/culture","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/culture"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/culture"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/culture/art","navigation":{"nav_title":"Art"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Art news, reviews, interviews and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Art | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":[]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Art","order":{"default":2003,"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2003,"section-page-subnavs":2001},"parent":{"default":"/culture","hamburger-menu":"/culture","App-Hamburger":"/culture","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/culture","section-page-subnavs":"/culture","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/culture"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/culture"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/culture/books","navigation":{"nav_title":"Books"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"Book Club","description":"Sign up to the Irish Times books newsletter for features, podcasts and more","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/sandbox.irishtimes/5OB3DSIVAFDZJCTVH2S24A254Y.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/sandbox.irishtimes/XIQLGNMSVNCQXJHYYSY4BZS7EI.jpg","newsletterid":"Book Club [33]"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Books | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Books and literature news, reviews, interviews and more from the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/culture/books"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Books","order":{"default":2004,"hamburger-menu":2002,"App-Hamburger":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2004,"section-page-subnavs":2002},"parent":{"default":"/culture","hamburger-menu":"/culture","App-Hamburger":"/culture","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/culture","section-page-subnavs":"/culture","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/culture"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/culture"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/culture/film","navigation":{"nav_title":"Film"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Film | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Film and movie news, reviews, interviews and more from the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/culture/film"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Film","order":{"default":2005,"hamburger-menu":2003,"App-Hamburger":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2005,"section-page-subnavs":2003},"parent":{"default":"/culture","hamburger-menu":"/culture","App-Hamburger":"/culture","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/culture","section-page-subnavs":"/culture","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/culture"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/culture"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/culture/tv-radio","navigation":{"nav_title":"TV & Radio"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/culture/tv-radio"]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Television and radio news, reviews, interviews and more from the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"TV & Radio | The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"TV & Radio","order":{"default":2006,"hamburger-menu":2006,"App-Hamburger":2006,"composer-relevant-sections":2006,"section-page-subnavs":2006},"parent":{"default":"/culture","hamburger-menu":"/culture","App-Hamburger":"/culture","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/culture","section-page-subnavs":"/culture","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/culture"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/culture"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/culture"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/culture"],"section-page-subnavs":["/culture"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/property","navigation":{"nav_title":"Property"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/property"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Property | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Latest Irish residential and commercial property news, reviews, tips and advice, including on interiors, brought to you by The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"On the Money","description":"Our weekly personal finance digest will provide you with the insight you need to save money and make smart spending decisions","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6BDEAESQEJH4BHNFRSVZH3W4TM.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/C5IJRWJKRVHG3EOKA5ZIM32SD4.png","newsletterid":"On The Money [583]"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Property","order":{"default":1015,"consumer":1003,"+ add":1011,"App-Hamburger":1014,"hamburger-menu":1014,"navbar":1007,"composer-relevant-sections":1015,"section-page-subnavs":1010,"App-Links-Navigation":1011,"sitemap-section":1015,"HP-under-masthead":1010},"parent":{"default":"/","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"App-Hamburger":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","links-bar":null,"section-page-subnavs":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"links-bar":[],"consumer":["/"],"navbar":[],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"],"HP-under-masthead":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/property/commercial-property","navigation":{"nav_title":"Commercial Property"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Commercial Property | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Latest commercial property articles, including Irish construction and property market news, brought to you by The Irish Times, Ireland's definitive brand of quality news."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/property/commercial-property"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Commercial Property","order":{"default":2001,"hamburger-menu":2002,"App-Hamburger":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2001},"parent":{"default":"/property","hamburger-menu":"/property","App-Hamburger":"/property","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/property","section-page-subnavs":"/property","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/property"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/property"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/property/residential","navigation":{"nav_title":"Residential"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Residential Property | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Latest homes and property news, reviews, tips and advice, brought to you by The Irish Times, Ireland's definitive brand of quality news."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/property/residential"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Residential","order":{"default":2002,"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2002},"parent":{"default":"/property","hamburger-menu":"/property","App-Hamburger":"/property","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/property","section-page-subnavs":"/property","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/property"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/property"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/property/interiors","navigation":{"nav_title":"Interiors"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Interiors & Design | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Latest Irish homes and property interiors news, reviews, tips and advice brought to you by The Irish Times, Ireland's definitive brand of quality news."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/property/interiors"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Interiors","order":{"default":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2003,"section-page-subnavs":2003,"hamburger-menu":2003,"App-Hamburger":2003},"parent":{"default":"/property","hamburger-menu":"/property","App-Hamburger":"/property","Mobile-Links-Navigation":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/property","section-page-subnavs":"/property","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/property"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/property"],"Mobile-Links-Navigation":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/food","_website":"irishtimes","name":"Food","inactive":false,"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"navbar":[],"+ add":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"],"HP-under-masthead":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"]},"parent":{"default":"/","+ add":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/"},"order":{"default":1016,"+ add":1010,"hamburger-menu":1015,"App-Hamburger":1015,"navbar":1008,"composer-relevant-sections":1016,"section-page-subnavs":1011,"sitemap-section":1016,"HP-under-masthead":1011,"App-Links-Navigation":1012},"Newsletter":{"description":"Exclusive competitions and restaurant offers, plus reviews, the latest food and drink news, recipes and lots more","headline":"Food & Drink Club","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HYMBGGEVGZHRVE5F5HZQC2JAQA.png","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CXHWZGGIXRHG5AXI74KPCD3OSI.png","newsletterid":"Food & Drink club [75]"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/food"]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Food and drink trends, recipes, restaurant reviews, tips and advice brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Food | The Irish Times"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Food"},"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/food/drink","navigation":{"nav_title":"Drink"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/food/drink"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Drink | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Wine, beer and spirit reviews and tips and trends from the experts brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Drink","order":{"default":2001,"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2001},"parent":{"default":"/food","hamburger-menu":"/food","App-Hamburger":"/food","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/food","section-page-subnavs":"/food","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/food"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/food"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/food"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/food"],"section-page-subnavs":["/food"],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/food/recipes","navigation":{"nav_title":"Recipes"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The best meat, fish, vegetarian, baking and dessert recipes from easy to challenging brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Recipes | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/food/recipes"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Recipes","order":{"default":2002,"hamburger-menu":2002,"App-Hamburger":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2002},"parent":{"default":"/food","hamburger-menu":"/food","App-Hamburger":"/food","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/food","section-page-subnavs":"/food","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/food"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/food"],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/food/restaurants","navigation":{"nav_title":"Restaurants"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Restaurant reviews, tips, trends and advice brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Restaurants | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":[]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Restaurants","order":{"default":2003,"hamburger-menu":2003,"App-Hamburger":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2003,"section-page-subnavs":2003},"parent":{"default":"/food","hamburger-menu":"/food","App-Hamburger":"/food","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/food","section-page-subnavs":"/food","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/food"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/food"],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/environment","navigation":{"nav_title":"Environment"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/environment"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Environment | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Environment news, comment and analysis brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Environment","order":{"default":1017,"hamburger-menu":1019,"App-Hamburger":1019,"navbar":1006,"composer-relevant-sections":1017,"section-page-subnavs":1015,"sitemap-section":1017},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/environment/climate-crisis","navigation":{"nav_title":"Climate Crisis"},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The latest Climate news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"Climate Crisis | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/environment/climate-crisis"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Climate Crisis","order":{"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2001,"links-bar":1003},"parent":{"default":"/environment","hamburger-menu":"/environment","App-Hamburger":"/environment","composer-relevant-sections":"/environment","section-page-subnavs":"/environment","App-Links-Navigation":null,"links-bar":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/environment"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/environment"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/environment"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/environment"],"section-page-subnavs":["/","/environment"],"App-Links-Navigation":[],"links-bar":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/media","navigation":{"nav_title":"Media"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Media | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Media news, analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":[]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"IT Sunday","description":"A bespoke collection of Irish Times journalism exclusively for subscribers featuring previews and the best of the week that was","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/YUNSUFLUDBCCDE3YXGVPJTDIF4.png","newsletterpremium":"true","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OEJH4J26O5AYXCS2RGZU5JOCXY.png","newsletterid":"IT Sunday [46]"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Media","order":{"default":1018,"hamburger-menu":1022,"App-Hamburger":1022,"navbar":1011,"composer-relevant-sections":1018,"section-page-subnavs":1018,"sitemap-section":1018},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/motors","navigation":{"nav_title":"Motors"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Motors | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest Motors news, car reviews and features brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/motors"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Motors","order":{"default":1019,"hamburger-menu":1026,"App-Hamburger":1026,"navbar":1009,"composer-relevant-sections":1019,"section-page-subnavs":1022,"sitemap-section":1019},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/obituaries","navigation":{"nav_title":"Obituaries"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Obituaries | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Assessments and appreciations of the lives and work of significant people from Ireland and abroad, brought to you by the definitive brand of quality news in Ireland."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/obituaries"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Obituaries","order":{"default":1020,"hamburger-menu":1024,"App-Hamburger":1024,"navbar":1010,"composer-relevant-sections":1020,"section-page-subnavs":1020,"sitemap-section":1020},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/history","navigation":{"nav_title":"History"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"History news, reports, series and investigations brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times.","metadata_title":"History | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/history"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"History","order":{"default":1021,"hamburger-menu":1031,"App-Hamburger":1031,"navbar":1015,"composer-relevant-sections":1021,"section-page-subnavs":1026,"sitemap-section":1021},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/","links-bar":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"links-bar":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/history/century","navigation":{"nav_title":"Century"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"The Century Project | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The Century Project: A commemoration of the decade of revolution 1912-23 from The Irish Times. Includes special sites on home rule, women and the vote, the 1913 Lockout, the first World War, the 1916 Rising, the War of Independence and much more."},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Century","order":{"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2001},"parent":{"default":"/history","hamburger-menu":"/history","App-Hamburger":"/history","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/history","section-page-subnavs":"/history","sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/","/history"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/history"],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/tuarascail","navigation":{"nav_title":"Tuarascáil"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Tuarascáil | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest news, opinion and analysis and comment brought to you by the definitive brand of quality journalism. Read The Irish Times."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/tuarascail"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Tuarascáil","order":{"default":1022,"hamburger-menu":1032,"App-Hamburger":1032,"navbar":1013,"composer-relevant-sections":1022,"section-page-subnavs":1027,"sitemap-section":1022},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/abroad","navigation":{"nav_title":"Abroad"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"Abroad","description":"Emigration issues and stories from the Irish diaspora. Members can contribute their own experiences and views","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/H6Y5O2MYTNGVPNFWMC6DVGQCKA.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/I3YWMZ37B5FZJDXOENGSQ35TEI.jpg","newsletterid":"Abroad [19]","newsletter_url_redirection":"/abroad/join-us/"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Abroad | The Irish Times site for Irish readers overseas","metadata_description":"Irish Times Abroad is a home for Irish-connected people around the world, with first-person stories, news, interviews, features and opinion by and about the Irish overseas. Join the Irish Times Abroad network to keep up to date with our best journalism, and to contribute your own experiences and opinions."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/abroad"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Abroad","order":{"default":1023,"hamburger-menu":1023,"App-Hamburger":1023,"navbar":1016,"composer-relevant-sections":1023,"section-page-subnavs":1019,"sitemap-section":1023,"HP-under-masthead":1015,"App-Links-Navigation":1016},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/","HP-under-masthead":"/","App-Links-Navigation":"/"},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar":[],"Comopser":[],"HP-under-masthead":["/"],"App-Links-Navigation":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/abroad/join-us","navigation":{"nav_title":"Abroad Join"},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The Irish Times Abroad section is for Irish-connected people around the world. Here you’ll find readers’ stories of their lives overseas, plus news, business, sports, opinion, culture and lifestyle journalism relevant to Irish people around the world.","metadata_title":"Join The Irish Times Abroad Network | Sign up and connect"},"name":"Join Us","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/abroad"},"ancestors":{"default":["/abroad"]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/abroad/join-us"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/offbeat","navigation":{"nav_title":"Offbeat"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Offbeat | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"A look at some of the stranger stories from around the world."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/offbeat"]},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Offbeat","order":{"default":1024,"hamburger-menu":1034,"App-Hamburger":1033,"navbar":1013,"composer-relevant-sections":1024,"section-page-subnavs":1028,"sitemap-section":1024},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/photography","navigation":{"nav_title":"Photography"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The latest image galleries and photography articles from The Irish Times, the definitive brand of quality news.","metadata_title":"Photography | The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/photography"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Photography","order":{"default":1025,"hamburger-menu":1030,"App-Hamburger":1030,"navbar":1016,"composer-relevant-sections":1025,"section-page-subnavs":1025,"sitemap-section":1025},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"Comopser":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts","navigation":{"nav_title":"Podcasts"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Podcasts | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The latest podcasts from The Irish Times, including In the News, World View, The Women's Podcast, The Irish Times Books Podcast, Inside Business, and Inside Politics."},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Podcasts","order":{"default":1026,"hamburger-menu":1028,"App-Hamburger":1028,"navbar":1019,"composer-relevant-sections":1026,"section-page-subnavs":1023,"sitemap-section":1026,"Podcasts":1001},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","links-bar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/","Podcasts":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"links-bar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"],"Podcasts":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/podcasts/borderlines","navigation":{"nav_title":"Borderlines"},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Mary Minihan and Freya McClements, born and raised in Derry, talk to interesting people about identity, culture and the experiences that shaped them","metadata_title":"Borderlines | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/podcasts/borderlines"]},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/borderlines/id1605473925","Google":"https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5hY2FzdC5jb20vcHVibGljL3Nob3dzL2JvcmRlcmxpbmVzaXJpc2h0aW1lcw","Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/7puCc0rj4tZIse3Yuj9zSI"}},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/sandbox.irishtimes/FSYD34ND3ZFNJDXT7W5WIW3KOA.jpeg"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Borderlines","order":{"composer-relevant-sections":2011},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","hamburger-menu":null,"App-Hamburger":null,"section-page-subnavs":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts","Podcasts":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/podcasts"],"hamburger-menu":[],"App-Hamburger":[],"section-page-subnavs":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"],"Podcasts":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts/gubu","navigation":{"nav_title":"GUBU"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Harry McGee presents a seven-part podcast series on Malcolm Macarthur and the sensational murders that almost toppled an Irish government","metadata_title":"GUBU Podcast | Politics History True Crime | The Irish Times"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/gubu/id1625588320","Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/42d9pVxW5I8365bzibygmj","Google":"https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5hY2FzdC5jb20vcHVibGljL3Nob3dzLzYyODM1ZDM1NDVlOTFiMDAxNDYzOTY5ZA"}},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"Inside Politics [44]"},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/FBXIISROFZH5BBVAXGMLYVDJ3I.jpg"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/podcasts/gubu"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"GUBU","order":{"composer-relevant-sections":2012},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts","section-page-subnavs":null,"hamburger-menu":null,"App-Hamburger":null,"Podcasts":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/podcasts"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"hamburger-menu":[],"App-Hamburger":[],"Podcasts":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts/web1","navigation":{"nav_title":"Web 1.0"},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Discover the murky origins of today's internet culture through the eyes of early web innovators in this six-part series by Irish Times videographer Enda O'Dowd.","metadata_title":"Web 1.0 Podcast | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/podcasts/web1"]},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6JFX2H5OLVDUZNL3U5IOYGWNLI.jpeg"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/web-1-0/id1713088666","Google":"https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5hY2FzdC5jb20vcHVibGljL3Nob3dzLzY1MTZhN2QyNDhiNmM4MDAxMTlkYTdjMw","Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/2nzivjW7wZ5CowTGm1il0j"}},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Web 1.0","order":{"composer-relevant-sections":2009},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts","section-page-subnavs":null,"Podcasts":null,"hamburger-menu":null,"App-Hamburger":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/podcasts"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"Podcasts":[],"hamburger-menu":[],"App-Hamburger":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts/the-counter-ruck","_website":"irishtimes","name":"The Counter Ruck Podcast","inactive":false,"ancestors":{"default":["/podcasts"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"],"Podcasts":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/podcasts","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/podcasts","/"],"App-Hamburger":["/podcasts","/"]},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts","Podcasts":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/podcasts","hamburger-menu":"/podcasts","App-Hamburger":"/podcasts"},"order":{"composer-relevant-sections":2007,"Podcasts":1007,"section-page-subnavs":2005,"hamburger-menu":2006,"App-Hamburger":2006},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JA5CIJZZSRF7ZKLAJ5Y7LWMMII.jpg"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-counter-ruck/id1341682574","Google":"https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5hY2FzdC5jb20vcHVibGljL3Nob3dzLzY0ZWY2ZDllNTQ2NGQ1MDAxMWJhZmVjZQ","Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/42x1RuZcsYd14AVIwKUDp3"}},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/podcasts/the-counter-ruck"]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Every week host Nathan Johns is joined by Irish Times colleagues and special guests to discuss the topics making headlines in the rugby world – from grassroots to the international game.","metadata_title":"The Counter Ruck Podcast | The Irish Times"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"The Counter Ruck"},"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts/olympic-stories","_website":"irishtimes","name":"Greatest Irish Olympic Stories Never Told","inactive":false,"ancestors":{"default":["/podcasts"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"]},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts"},"Newsletter":{"description":null,"headline":null,"imageside":null,"imagetop":null,"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/FY5GTB2PUZDEBIVARG3I2V5ENA.jpg"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Spotify ":"https://open.spotify.com/show/2RLOfgbnV4WlT6wxUyLg1I","Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/greatest-irish-olympic-stories-never-told/id1755570451"}},"_admin":{"alias_ids":[]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Greatest Irish Olympic Stories Never Told Podcast. To coincide with the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, we look at the Irish Olympic stories you didn't know, from Jack B Yeats winning Ireland's first ever medal in painting to the boxing clergyman who fought Franco","metadata_title":"Greatest Irish Olympic Stories Never Told Podcast | The Irish Times"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Greatest Irish Olympic Stories"},"node_type":"section","order":{"composer-relevant-sections":2006},"children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts/conversations-with-parents","_website":"irishtimes","name":"Conversations with Parents Podcast","inactive":false,"ancestors":{"default":["/podcasts"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/podcasts","/"],"hamburger-menu":["/podcasts","/"],"App-Hamburger":["/podcasts","/"],"Podcasts":["/"]},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts","section-page-subnavs":"/podcasts","hamburger-menu":"/podcasts","App-Hamburger":"/podcasts","Podcasts":"/"},"order":{"composer-relevant-sections":2008,"section-page-subnavs":2007,"hamburger-menu":2007,"App-Hamburger":2007,"Podcasts":1008},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/FBLLZCTAXRHGHPGQSF7Q242DOM.jpg"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conversations-with-parents/id1770870669","Feed":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/66dace753eb5a88941553994","Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/4CiYQPY4qlXki5U98wIIwu"}},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Conversations with Parents is a podcast from The Irish Times. Host Jen Hogan talks to interesting people about the biggest challenge of their lives: parenthood. What has being a parent taught them? What are their parenting strategies - or are they making it up as they go along?","metadata_title":"Conversations with Parents Podcast | The Irish Times "},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Conversations with Parents"},"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts/in-the-news","_website":"irishtimes","name":"In the News Podcast","inactive":false,"ancestors":{"default":["/","/podcasts"],"hamburger-menu":["/podcasts","/"],"App-Hamburger":["/podcasts","/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"],"Listen-Links-Bar":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/podcasts","/"],"sitemap-section":[],"Podcasts":["/"]},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","hamburger-menu":"/podcasts","App-Hamburger":"/podcasts","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts","Listen-Links-Bar":null,"section-page-subnavs":"/podcasts","sitemap-section":null,"Podcasts":"/"},"order":{"default":2001,"hamburger-menu":2001,"App-Hamburger":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2002,"section-page-subnavs":2001,"Podcasts":1002},"Newsletter":{"description":null,"headline":null,"imageside":null,"imagetop":null,"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/4NJVZP5VPFB5TIQMSD6NV55AYQ.png"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-news/id1566625447?ign-itscg=30200&ign-itsct=podcast_box_link","Google":"https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5hY2FzdC5jb20vcHVibGljL3Nob3dzL2IyZmI1ZjBiLTBjZTctNGU1Yy1iNmUwLTliMWZlYmQwNmFlYQ?sa=X&ved=0CAMQ4aUDahcKEwiI96juvP_zAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAQ","Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/5LdvU3hLoVFskuROWcP39t?si=UlFERy2dQCuYbPD0Q3F1LA&nd=1"}},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/podcasts/in-the-news"]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The Irish Times In the News Daily podcast takes a closer look at the stories that matter with Conor Pope and Sorcha Pollak","metadata_title":"In the News Daily Podcast | The Irish Times"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"In the News Daily"},"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","navigation":{"nav_title":"Inside Politics"},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/inside-politics/id794389685?mt=2#iTunes","Google":"https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5hY2FzdC5jb20vcHVibGljL3Nob3dzLzYxNTVkYjkwNTlhM2ZhMDAxMzdmMzBhOQ","Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/6TcICI7TKvavt2KvJy5GMK"}},"Newsletter":{"headline":"Inside Politics","description":"Our politics team’s behind-the-scenes take on events of the day","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/MOENYACS6VA77KV7ZXJ7HWR6UM.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OKCK2X2KDBDT5EMX7RF3CQOLUQ.jpg","newsletterid":"Inside Politics [58]"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Political insight from The Irish Times politics team and hosted by Hugh Linehan. New episodes every Wednesday and most Fridays","metadata_title":"Inside Politics Podcast | The Irish Times"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/podcasts/inside-politics"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Inside Politics Podcast","order":{"default":2002,"hamburger-menu":2002,"App-Hamburger":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2003,"section-page-subnavs":2003,"Podcasts":1003},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","hamburger-menu":"/podcasts","App-Hamburger":"/podcasts","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts","Listen-Links-Bar":null,"section-page-subnavs":"/podcasts","sitemap-section":null,"Podcasts":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/podcasts"],"hamburger-menu":["/podcasts","/"],"App-Hamburger":["/podcasts","/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"],"Listen-Links-Bar":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/podcasts","/"],"sitemap-section":[],"Podcasts":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts/the-womens-podcast","navigation":{"nav_title":"The Women's Podcast"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/the-womens-podcast/id1040117877?mt=2#iTunes","Google":"https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5hY2FzdC5jb20vcHVibGljL3Nob3dzLzYxNTVlMTg3NDZkZmNjMDAxNDI3M2FmMQ","Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/7k44L4YCRiQVq6iqn4KImo"}},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/AY566DWU2EEB4VN2ZD5657GK2M.jpg"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"The Women's Podcast | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"A female take on Ireland and the world. This weekly podcast is hosted by Kathy Sheridan and is packed full of feminism, humour, health, politics, sex, storytelling, relationships and more. The podcast is produced by Róisín Ingle and Jennifer Ryan"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/podcasts/the-womens-podcast"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"The Women's Podcast","order":{"default":2003,"hamburger-menu":2003,"App-Hamburger":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2004,"section-page-subnavs":2002,"Podcasts":1004},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","hamburger-menu":"/podcasts","App-Hamburger":"/podcasts","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts","Listen-Links-Bar":null,"section-page-subnavs":"/podcasts","sitemap-section":null,"Podcasts":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/podcasts"],"hamburger-menu":["/podcasts","/"],"App-Hamburger":["/podcasts","/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"],"Listen-Links-Bar":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/podcasts","/"],"sitemap-section":[],"Podcasts":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-business","navigation":{"nav_title":"Inside Business"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/inside-business-with-ciaran-hancock/id799812881?mt=2#iTunes","Google":"https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5hY2FzdC5jb20vcHVibGljL3Nob3dzLzYxOWZhZjFhZjhkNGRjMDAxM2JjYTIwZg","Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/5ZgmRfMfTC7cgbtWhnPDYm"}},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Inside Business Podcast | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Business, economics, tech, finance - every Wednesday we look at the trends that affect your bottom line. Business leaders and economic experts join host Ciarán Hancock and our business team"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"Business Today","description":"Get the latest business news and commentary from our expert business team in your inbox every weekday morning","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VR3765MFOBH2NMV2QNICYDF67M.png","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/GTR7XRAPLJD3PGG2545VG7UXNU.png","newsletterid":"Business Today [3]"},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/PARJAOX25ZBZ3N63TBBML7ZCAE.png"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/podcasts/inside-business"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Inside Business Podcast","order":{"default":2004,"hamburger-menu":2004,"App-Hamburger":2004,"composer-relevant-sections":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2004,"Budget":1004,"Podcasts":1005},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","Business-subnav":null,"hamburger-menu":"/podcasts","App-Hamburger":"/podcasts","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts","Listen-Links-Bar":null,"section-page-subnavs":"/podcasts","sitemap-section":null,"Budget":"/","Podcasts":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/podcasts"],"Business-subnav":[],"hamburger-menu":["/podcasts","/"],"App-Hamburger":["/podcasts","/"],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"],"Listen-Links-Bar":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/podcasts","/"],"sitemap-section":[],"Budget":["/"],"Podcasts":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts/ross-ocarroll-kelly","navigation":{"nav_title":"Ross O'Carroll-Kelly"},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/MH35IEIN5FGYNH7X3SQF3E4LBQ.jpg"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/ross-ocarroll-kelly/id1005100505?mt=2","Google":"https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5hY2FzdC5jb20vcHVibGljL3Nob3dzLzhlMjJiMTAwLTA3ODktNWYyMy1iNDI1LTgxZjQ2ZGQxNWUzNg","Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/6kTMSMIFcdnj5Oai4kiTMJ"}},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Join Ross O'Carroll-Kelly every Saturday for his weekly audio column and let him regale you of his, Honor, Ronan and Sorcha's adventures about jocking it up in D4 and beyond, loike","metadata_description":"Ross O'Carroll-Kelly Podcast | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/podcasts/ross-ocarroll-kelly"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Ross O'Carroll-Kelly","order":{"default":2005,"hamburger-menu":2005,"App-Hamburger":2005,"composer-relevant-sections":2005,"section-page-subnavs":2006,"Podcasts":1006},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","hamburger-menu":"/podcasts","App-Hamburger":"/podcasts","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts","Listen-Links-Bar":null,"section-page-subnavs":"/podcasts","sitemap-section":null,"Podcasts":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/podcasts"],"hamburger-menu":["/podcasts","/"],"App-Hamburger":["/podcasts","/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"],"Listen-Links-Bar":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/podcasts","/"],"sitemap-section":[],"Podcasts":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/podcasts/atlantic","_website":"irishtimes","name":"Atlantic","inactive":false,"ancestors":{"default":["/","/podcasts"],"hamburger-menu":[],"App-Hamburger":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/podcasts","/"],"Listen-Links-Bar":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/podcasts","/"],"sitemap-section":[],"Podcasts":["/"]},"parent":{"default":"/podcasts","hamburger-menu":null,"App-Hamburger":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/podcasts","Listen-Links-Bar":null,"section-page-subnavs":"/podcasts","sitemap-section":null,"Podcasts":"/"},"order":{"default":2006,"composer-relevant-sections":2010,"section-page-subnavs":2008,"Podcasts":1011},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NJPLL2LHVVBLTEJBHZB4I2IEEE.png"},"Podcast follow links":{"podcastplatforms":{"Spotify":"https://open.spotify.com/show/4PjX3357pBhg9FrdoZ5yah","YouTube Music":"https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL61ZoYGdbICl_OqLVmchncPELnsCss_Wj","Apple":"https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/the-irish-times-atlantic/id1467188100 "}},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/podcasts/atlantic"]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"The unsolved mystery of Peter Bergmann - a special podcast series","metadata_title":"Atlantic | The Irish Times"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Atlantic"},"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/video","navigation":{"nav_title":"Video"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Video | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"The best video content including news, sport, business, features, the arts and more from The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/video"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Video","order":{"default":1027,"hamburger-menu":1029,"App-Hamburger":1029,"navbar":1019,"composer-relevant-sections":1027,"section-page-subnavs":1024,"sitemap-section":1027},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/video/clips","_website":"irishtimes","name":"Clips","inactive":false,"ancestors":{"default":["/video"]},"parent":{"default":"/video"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"metadata":{"metadata_description":null,"metadata_title":"Video Clips | The Irish Times"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Video Clips"},"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/student-hub","navigation":{"nav_title":"Student Hub"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"In college? Check out Student Hub from The Irish Times for your guide to university - including the latest news, tips, what's on, movie & music reviews and lots more.","metadata_title":"Student Hub | The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"Classroom Central","description":"Your regular guide to the latest education news, analysis and opinion, as well as classroom resources, posters and lots more","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/MFD7XQREOBFTFEIWUVHGCUECAA.png","imageside":"https://irishtimes-irishtimes-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/WiW0gr5H4MZa2Vl-GEklB24MCHs=/arc-photo-irishtimes/eu-central-1-prod/public/BZ6ELUXI4ZCGZNYPH5SSL2TJOU.jpg","newsletterid":"Classroom Central [187]","newsletterpremium":"false"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/student-hub"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Student Hub","order":{"default":1028,"hamburger-menu":1033,"App-Hamburger":1034,"navbar":1023,"composer-relevant-sections":1030,"section-page-subnavs":1029,"sitemap-section":1030},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/sponsored","navigation":{"nav_title":"Sponsored"},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":"Sponsored by","lead_label":"Sponsored content is premium paid-for content produced by the Irish Times Content Studio on behalf of commercial clients. The Irish Times newsroom or other editorial departments are not involved in the production of sponsored content."},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"The Irish Times Content Studio","metadata_description":"The Irish Times Content Studio has been developed to drive brand stories, to engage audiences with commercial content and to enhance the working relationship with our many commercial partners."},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Sponsored","order":{"default":1029,"hamburger-menu":1036,"navbar":1016,"composer-relevant-sections":1028,"App-Hamburger":1035,"section-page-subnavs":1031,"sitemap-section":1028},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"sitemap-section":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/newsletters","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":null,"metadata_title":null},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/newsletters"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Newsletters","order":{"default":1030},"parent":{"default":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/newsletters/business-today-newsletter","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Get the latest business news and commentary from our expert business team in your inbox every weekday morning","metadata_title":"Business Today | The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"/business"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/newsletters/business-today-newsletter"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Business Today","parent":{"default":"/newsletters"},"ancestors":{"default":["/newsletters"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/newsletters/classroom-central-newsletter","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Your regular guide to the latest education news, analysis and opinion, as well as classroom resources, posters and lots more","metadata_title":"Classroom Central | The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"/ireland/education"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/newsletters/classroom-central-newsletter"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Classroom Central","parent":{"default":"/newsletters"},"ancestors":{"default":["/newsletters"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/newsletters/inside-politics-newsletter","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Our politics team’s behind-the-scenes take on events of the day. Every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday when the Dáil sits","metadata_title":"Inside Politics | The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"/politics"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/newsletters/inside-politics-newsletter"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Inside Politics","parent":{"default":"/newsletters"},"ancestors":{"default":["/newsletters"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/newsletters/morning-sport-briefing-newsletter","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers","metadata_title":"Sports Briefing | The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"/sport"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/newsletters/morning-sport-briefing-newsletter"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Sports Briefing","parent":{"default":"/newsletters"},"ancestors":{"default":["/newsletters"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/newsletters/book-club-newsletter","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Sign up to the Irish Times books newsletter for features, podcasts and more","metadata_title":"The Book Club | The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"/culture"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/newsletters/book-club-newsletter"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"The Book Club","parent":{"default":"/newsletters"},"ancestors":{"default":["/newsletters"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/newsletters/food-and-drink-club-newsletter","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Exclusive competitions and restaurant offers, plus reviews, the latest food and drink news, recipes and lots more","metadata_title":"Food & Drink Club | The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"/food"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/newsletters/food-and-drink-club-newsletter"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Food and Drink Club","parent":{"default":"/newsletters"},"ancestors":{"default":["/newsletters"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/newsletters/on-the-money-newsletter","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Our weekly personal finance digest will give you the insight you need to save money and make smart spending decisions","metadata_title":"On The Money | The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"headline":"/your-money"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/newsletters/on-the-money-newsletter"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"On The Money","parent":{"default":"/newsletters"},"ancestors":{"default":["/newsletters"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/newsletters/the-counter-ruck-newsletter","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Sign up to the Irish Times weekly rugby digest for the view from the press box with Gerry Thornley","metadata_title":"The Counter Ruck | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/newsletters/the-counter-ruck-newsletter"]},"Newsletter":{"headline":"/sport/rugby"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"The Counter Ruck","parent":{"default":"/newsletters"},"ancestors":{"default":["/newsletters"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/newsletters/inside-gaelic-games","_website":"irishtimes","name":"Inside Gaelic Games","inactive":false,"ancestors":{"default":["/newsletters"]},"parent":{"default":"/newsletters"},"Newsletter":{"description":"Get an in-depth look at the weekend's action and the best analysis of upcoming fixtures in our weekly gaelic games newsletter","headline":"Inside Gaelic Games","imageside":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ECWVBHJDENC3LCFTZXWDOYAU5I.png","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/WAGYM23S6FFUZDCIUZ4TKNTZSQ.png","newsletter_url_redirection":null,"newsletterid":"Inside Gaelic Games [700]","newsletterpremium":"false"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":[]},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Get an in-depth look at the weekend's action and the best analysis of upcoming fixtures in our weekly gaelic games newsletter","metadata_title":"Inside Gaelic Games Newsletter | The Irish Times"},"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/advertising-feature","navigation":{"nav_title":"Advertising Feature"},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":"Supplied by","lead_label":"An advertising feature is created, supplied and paid for by a commercial client and promoted by the Irish Times Content Studio. The Irish Times newsroom or other editorial departments are not involved in the production of advertising features."},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Advertising features are promoted by the Irish Times Content Studio and paid for by a commercial client. The Irish Times newsroom or other editorial departments are not involved in the production of advertising features.","metadata_title":"Advertising Feature | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/advertising-feature"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Advertising Feature","order":{"hamburger-menu":2001,"default":1031,"navbar":1021,"composer-relevant-sections":1029,"App-Hamburger":2001,"section-page-subnavs":2001,"sitemap-section":1029},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":"/sponsored","navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","App-Hamburger":"/sponsored","section-page-subnavs":"/sponsored","sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/sponsored"],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/sponsored"],"section-page-subnavs":["/","/sponsored"],"sitemap-section":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/special-reports","navigation":{"nav_title":"Special Reports"},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":"A special report is content that is edited and produced by the special reports unit within The Irish Times Content Studio. It is supported by advertisers who may contribute to the report but do not have editorial control.","affiliation":"In association with"},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"A special report is content that is edited and produced by the special reports unit within The Irish Times Content Studio. It is supported by advertisers who may contribute to the report but do not have editorial control.","metadata_title":"Special Reports | The Irish Times"},"name":"Special Reports","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/","sitemap-section":"/","hamburger-menu":"/sponsored","App-Hamburger":"/sponsored","composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/sponsored"},"ancestors":{"default":[],"sitemap-section":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/","/sponsored"],"App-Hamburger":["/","/sponsored"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/","/sponsored"]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/special-reports"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"default":1032,"sitemap-section":1031,"hamburger-menu":2002,"App-Hamburger":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":1031,"section-page-subnavs":2002},"children":[]},{"_id":"/partnership","navigation":{"nav_title":"Partnership"},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":"In partnership with","lead_label":"Partnership projects are created by Irish Times editorial departments and run in association with a commercial client. The client has no editorial involvement in this content."},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Partnership | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Partnership projects are created by The Irish Times editorial departments and run in association with a commercial client. The client has no editorial involvement in this content."},"_admin":{"alias_ids":[]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Partnership","order":{"default":1033,"navbar":1021,"composer-relevant-sections":1032,"sitemap-section":1032},"parent":{"default":"/","hamburger-menu":null,"navbar-NU":null,"Comopser":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","App-Hamburger":null,"section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"hamburger-menu":[],"navbar-NU":[],"Comopser":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"App-Hamburger":[],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/competitions","navigation":{"nav_title":"Competitions"},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/competitions"]},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"Something for the weekend [466]","imagetop":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/USULUHT24NGCTJGY7NDBY2GQQI.png","imageside":null,"description":"Offers, competitions, and a sneak preview of what's coming up at the weekend","headline":"Something for the Weekend"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Competitions | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Enter our competitions and win some great prizes brought to you by The Irish Times, the definitive brand of quality news in Ireland"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Competitions","order":{"default":1034,"composer-relevant-sections":1036,"sitemap-section":1034,"hamburger-menu":1038,"App-Hamburger":1036},"parent":{"default":"/","composer-relevant-sections":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","sitemap-section":"/","App-Hamburger":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"sitemap-section":[],"App-Hamburger":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/crosswords-puzzles","navigation":{"nav_title":"Crosswords & Puzzles"},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"premium"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/crosswords-puzzles"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Crosswords & Puzzles | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Challenge yourself with The Irish Times Simplex and Crosaire crosswords or with daily Sudoku puzzles"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Crosswords & Puzzles","order":{"App-Hamburger":1004,"hamburger-menu":1004,"default":1035,"section-page-subnavs":1030,"links-bar":1004},"parent":{"default":"/","App-Hamburger":"/","hamburger-menu":"/","footer":null,"section-page-subnavs":"/","sitemap-section":null,"links-bar":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":[],"App-Hamburger":["/"],"hamburger-menu":["/"],"footer":[],"section-page-subnavs":["/"],"sitemap-section":[],"links-bar":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/crosswords-puzzles/crosaire-blog","navigation":{"nav_title":"Crosaire Blog"},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/crosswords-puzzles/crosaire-blog"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Crosaire Blog | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Learn how cryptic clues are composed with the daily Crosaire Blog from The Irish Times"},"Newsletter":{"newsletterid":"News Digest"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Crosaire Blog","order":{"composer-relevant-sections":1037,"section-page-subnavs":2005},"parent":{"default":"/crosswords-puzzles","composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":"/crosswords-puzzles","App-Hamburger":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/crosswords-puzzles"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":["/","/crosswords-puzzles"],"App-Hamburger":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]}]},{"_id":"/wires","site":{"site_title":"Wires","site_url":null,"pagebuilder_path_for_native_apps":null,"site_tagline":null,"site_description":null,"site_keywords":null,"site_about":null},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Wires"},"name":"Wires","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/","navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/wires"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"default":1036,"navbar":1027,"composer-relevant-sections":1033},"children":[{"_id":"/wires/ap","site":{"site_title":null,"site_url":null,"pagebuilder_path_for_native_apps":null,"site_tagline":null,"site_description":null,"site_keywords":null,"site_about":null},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Associated Press"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/wires/ap"]},"name":"Associated Press","parent":{"default":"/wires","navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/wires","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/wires"],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/wires"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"node_type":"section","inactive":false,"_website":"irishtimes","order":{"default":2001,"composer-relevant-sections":2005},"children":[]},{"_id":"/wires/bloomberg","site":{"site_title":null,"site_url":null,"pagebuilder_path_for_native_apps":null,"site_tagline":null,"site_description":null,"site_keywords":null,"site_about":null},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Bloomberg"},"name":"Bloomberg","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/wires","navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/wires","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/wires"],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/wires"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/wires/bloomberg"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"default":2002,"composer-relevant-sections":2006},"children":[]},{"_id":"/wires/guardian","site":{"site_title":null,"site_url":null,"pagebuilder_path_for_native_apps":null,"site_tagline":null,"site_description":null,"site_keywords":null,"site_about":null},"navigation":{"nav_title":"The Guardian"},"name":"The Guardian","parent":{"default":"/wires","navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/wires","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/wires"],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/wires"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/wires/guardian"]},"node_type":"section","inactive":false,"_website":"irishtimes","order":{"default":2003,"composer-relevant-sections":2001},"children":[{"_id":"/wires/guardian/sport","site":{"site_title":"Guardian Sport","site_url":null,"pagebuilder_path_for_native_apps":null,"site_tagline":null,"site_description":null,"site_keywords":null,"site_about":null},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Guardian Sport"},"name":"Guardian Sport","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/wires/guardian","hamburger-menu":null,"navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/wires/guardian","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/wires","/wires/guardian"],"hamburger-menu":[],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/wires","/wires/guardian"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/wires/guardian/sport"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"default":3001,"composer-relevant-sections":3001},"children":[]}]},{"_id":"/wires/nyt","site":{"site_title":"The New York Times","site_url":null,"pagebuilder_path_for_native_apps":null,"site_tagline":null,"site_description":null,"site_keywords":null,"site_about":null},"navigation":{"nav_title":"The New York Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/wires/nyt"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"The New York Times","parent":{"default":"/wires","navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/wires","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/wires"],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/wires"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"default":2004,"composer-relevant-sections":2002},"children":[]},{"_id":"/wires/pa","site":{"site_title":null,"site_url":null,"pagebuilder_path_for_native_apps":null,"site_tagline":null,"site_description":null,"site_keywords":null,"site_about":null},"navigation":{"nav_title":"PA Media"},"name":"PA Media","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/wires","navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/wires","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/wires"],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/wires"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/wires/pa"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"default":2005,"composer-relevant-sections":2003},"children":[{"_id":"/wires/pa/sport","site":{"site_title":"PA Media Sport","site_url":null,"pagebuilder_path_for_native_apps":null,"site_tagline":null,"site_description":null,"site_keywords":null,"site_about":null},"navigation":{"nav_title":"PA Media Sport"},"name":"PA Media Sport","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/wires/pa","navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/wires/pa","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/wires","/wires/pa"],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/wires","/wires/pa"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/wires/pa/sport"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"default":3001,"composer-relevant-sections":3001},"children":[]}]},{"_id":"/wires/reuters","site":{"site_title":null,"site_url":null,"pagebuilder_path_for_native_apps":null,"site_tagline":null,"site_description":null,"site_keywords":null,"site_about":null},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Reuters"},"name":"Reuters","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/wires","navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/wires","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/wires"],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/wires"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/wires/reuters"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"default":2006,"composer-relevant-sections":2004},"children":[{"_id":"/wires/reuters/business","site":{"site_title":"Reuters Business","site_url":null,"pagebuilder_path_for_native_apps":null,"site_tagline":null,"site_description":null,"site_keywords":null,"site_about":null},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Reuters Business"},"name":"Reuters Business","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/wires/reuters","hamburger-menu":null,"navbar":null,"navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/wires/reuters","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/wires","/wires/reuters"],"hamburger-menu":[],"navbar":[],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/wires","/wires/reuters"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/wires/reuters/business"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"default":3001,"composer-relevant-sections":3002},"children":[]},{"_id":"/wires/reuters/sport","site":{"site_title":"Reuters Sport","site_url":null,"pagebuilder_path_for_native_apps":null,"site_tagline":null,"site_description":null,"site_keywords":null,"site_about":null},"navigation":{"nav_title":"Reuters Sport"},"name":"Reuters Sport","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/wires/reuters","navbar-NU":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/wires/reuters","section-page-subnavs":null,"sitemap-section":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/","/wires","/wires/reuters"],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/wires","/wires/reuters"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"sitemap-section":[]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/wires/reuters/sport"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"default":3002,"composer-relevant-sections":3001},"children":[]}]}]},{"_id":"/about-us","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/about-us"]},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"About | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"About The Irish Times, the definitive brand of quality news in Ireland"},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"About Us","order":{"footer":1003,"composer-relevant-sections":1034,"default":1037},"parent":{"default":"/","footer":"/","composer-relevant-sections":"/","hamburger-menu":null,"sitemap-section":null,"links-bar":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"footer":["/"],"navbar-NU":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"section-page-subnavs":[],"hamburger-menu":[],"sitemap-section":[],"links-bar":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[{"_id":"/about-us/career-opportunities","navigation":{"nav_title":"Careers"},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"View career opportunities at The Irish Times and apply.","metadata_title":"Careers | Find Jobs & Opportunities | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/about-us/career-opportunities"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Careers","parent":{"default":"/about-us"},"ancestors":{"default":["/about-us"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/about-us/advertise","navigation":{"nav_title":"advertise"},"Sponsored Content":{"lead_label":null,"affiliation":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"advertise","metadata_title":"advertise"},"name":"Advertise","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/about-us","composer-relevant-sections":"/about-us"},"ancestors":{"default":["/about-us"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/","/about-us"]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/about-us/advertise"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"composer-relevant-sections":2001},"children":[]}]},{"_id":"/policy-and-terms","navigation":{"nav_title":""},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/policy-and-terms"]},"metadata":{"metadata_title":"Policy & Terms | The Irish Times","metadata_description":"Online policy and terms of The Irish Times, the definitive brand of quality news in Ireland."},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Policy and Terms","order":{"composer-relevant-sections":1035,"default":1038},"parent":{"default":"/","footer":null,"hamburger-menu":null,"composer-relevant-sections":"/","App-Hamburger":null,"support-links-app":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"footer":[],"hamburger-menu":[],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"sitemap-section":[],"App-Hamburger":[],"support-links-app":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/support","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":null,"metadata_title":null},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/support"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Support","parent":{"default":"/","footer":"/","composer-relevant-sections":"/","support-links-app":null,"Logged-in-navigation":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"footer":["/"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"],"support-links-app":[],"Logged-in-navigation":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"footer":1002,"composer-relevant-sections":1039,"default":1039},"children":[]},{"_id":"/product-and-services","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Products and Services offered by The Irish Times team","metadata_title":"Products & Services | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/product-and-services"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Irish Times Products & Services","order":{"footer":1004,"default":1040},"parent":{"default":"/","footer":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"footer":["/"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/our-partners","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":"Partners sites from The Irish Times","metadata_title":"Our Partners | The Irish Times"},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/our-partners"]},"_website":"irishtimes","name":"Our Partners","order":{"default":1041},"parent":{"default":"/","footer":null,"our-partners":null},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"footer":[],"our-partners":[]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","children":[]},{"_id":"/partials","navigation":{"nav_title":null},"Sponsored Content":{"affiliation":null,"lead_label":null},"Paywall":{"paywall-status":"free"},"metadata":{"metadata_description":null,"metadata_title":null},"name":"Partials","_website":"irishtimes","parent":{"default":"/","composer-relevant-sections":"/"},"ancestors":{"default":["/"],"composer-relevant-sections":["/"]},"_admin":{"alias_ids":["/partials"]},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","order":{"composer-relevant-sections":1040,"default":1042},"children":[]}],"Page":null,"Operator":"Section"},"expires":1743500919576,"lastModified":1743500619456},"{\"feature\":\"links-bar\",\"hierarchy\":\"our-partners\",\"sectionId\":\"\"}":{"data":{"children":[{"_id":"link-RZ2ANKYPEH3D10YNR9JVH7VNMC","display_name":"MyHome.ie","node_type":"link","url":"https://www.myhome.ie"},{"_id":"link-B11GV8GN694GF8VF4DABJK72P4","display_name":"The Gloss","node_type":"link","url":"https://www.thegloss.ie"},{"_id":"link-TW1E9G03UX64TE4GX1KT8AC2U8","display_name":"Recruit Ireland","node_type":"link","url":"https://recruitireland.com/"},{"_id":"link-H2ZDK285TX65VCFVDB90GEG8K0","display_name":"Irish Times Training","node_type":"link","url":"https://www.irishtimestraining.com/"},{"_id":"link-LTCTRPJE2FGBLF7UZ2SSX7NBME","display_name":"RIP.ie","node_type":"link","url":"https://rip.ie/"}],"_id":"/"},"expires":1743501040051,"lastModified":1743500740005}},"alert-bar-collections":{"{\"from\":0,\"site\":\"irishtimes\",\"size\":1}":{"data":{"_id":"DL4WZLD3QVA55FOFBOQ3ZET6TY","version":"0.10.6","created_date":"2022-02-02T13:23:38.460Z","headlines":{"basic":"Breaking News Alert"},"last_updated_date":"2025-03-28T09:55:36.044Z","type":"collection","canonical_website":"irishtimes","websites":{"irishtimes":{}},"content_elements":[],"description":{"basic":"This collection powers the Alert Bar block on the website"},"content_aliases":["alert-bar"],"owner":{"id":"irishtimes"},"revision":{"branch":"default","published":true},"canonical_url":null,"publishing":{"scheduled_operations":{"publish_edition":[],"unpublish_edition":[]}},"website":"irishtimes"},"expires":1743500878124,"lastModified":1743500758093}},"story-feed-sections":{"{\"feedOffset\":0,\"feedSize\":50,\"includeSections\":\"/politics\"}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"SX2RDN4FCRERPMGKR6FX276GCQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":184,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/88ebbb15-6f3f-44f8-91e2-253e6e7e920c/versions/1743500604/media/74b6caf2fe8c4c05628d0a396b7e695e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/barry-heneghan-moves-dail-seat-away-from-michael-lowry-to-emphasise-his-independent-status/","content_elements":[{"_id":"EJ2TRIBYCFED3K6CZ34O7VM3C4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Barry Heneghan, the Independent TD for Dublin Bay North, has moved his seat in the Dáil away from that of Tipperary Independent TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ASU46M4LFES5OFHDJPSQVUVRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Both TDs are members of an Independent technical group composed of three Government-supporting TDs and two in Opposition. The decision of the Coalition to grant this group speaking rights for Leaders’ Questions and other priority slots in the Dáil has been the cause of the ongoing bitter row that has led to Tuesday’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/\">confidence motion in Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XUELTQWB6NDLBAMC7HQ6MDVWFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a letter to Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a>, which has been seen by The Irish Times, Mr Heneghan has said he will remain a member of the group but that there were clear political reasons behind his decision to distance himself from Mr Lowry in the Dáil. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3BPZPNZMU5FBXD3AQUMXEFDQD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said he would not be “bullied or intimidated” away from his stance, by Opposition TDs or by others. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBVZV2322FEF5JVZGT4YV6QYJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Heneghan, one of the youngest TDs in the Dáil, also emphasised his status as an Independent TD and also reminded Mr Martin that his support was not unconditional, but would depend on his priorities being delivered. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WDJBGPTIDZAJRF47IJUFWI7RVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“While some may see this as symbolic, for me it marks a clear commitment to the work I was elected to do free from unnecessary distractions and behaviour that, in my view, has been demeaning to the electorate,” he wrote in the letter. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OHOJV2RTCFGANIWERG3JVIZPXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Heneghan said he would continue to support the Government and try to deliver results for his constituents. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"F2CLAUQQDZAOVAM3LCKGMCQ6YE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I remain a member of the Technical Group, and I continue to support the Programme for Government so long as the priorities I was elected on are being progressed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3T6XPY4OONFILGCNVA5O5MWVPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I also want to restate clearly: I am an Independent TD, and I intend to act accordingly. If I wanted to align myself with a political party or the behaviour of other politicians, I would have joined one. I didn’t.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFIA32CPYVE6LMBV7MOGLSAYYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Heneghan has said he did not anticipate the level of “toxic and undermining behaviour” he would face, inside and outside, the Dáil. He said this could be partly attributed to his youth and inexperience. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MDIJERVPLZBOTJC6GV6CHKULXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I will not continue to tolerate it. The people who elected me expect focus, integrity, and delivery,” he has written. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HDOVNLOJABFOHIOBYOWWX27TAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Heneghan listed his priorities which include a new emergency department for Beaumont Hospital; a new building for Gaelcholáiste Reachrann; addressing the housing crisis; investing in disability services; tackling the shortage of special needs assistants; and upgrading community facilities across Dublin Bay North. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5S4EZGXVVHWFEHOCFRW5Q6NIQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I may have moved my seat, but I haven’t moved an inch from the mandate I was elected on. I will continue to engage constructively with the Government and Ministers where it helps deliver for Dublin Bay North, and I remain committed to the responsibilities placed on me,” he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UXYTRK2E3VCM7ESN6NTTGOJTZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Let me be clear: I will not be bullied or intimidated out of that position.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"}]},"description":{"basic":"The Dublin Bay North TD will remain a member of the Lowry technical group and will continue to support the Government"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T09:37:14.276Z","headlines":{"basic":"Barry Heneghan moves Dáil seat away from Michael Lowry to emphasise his ‘independent’ status","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY","auth":{"1":"86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/barry-heneghan-moves-dail-seat-away-from-michael-lowry-to-emphasise-his-independent-status/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"TG5DKXG5YFCHVK6P5NXNGVXFFU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":187,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6da8e79c-a5fb-4666-ad8b-b4f9f8d16bf3/versions/1743500353/media/55680bdb1f63570cd0b3c5abea8c3579_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ireland-the-corporate-tax-model-of-what-us-should-do-says-former-trump-economic-adviser/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"A former senior economic adviser to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\">Donald Trump</a> has said that he admired Ireland’s corporate tax rate and that the US might be wiser in reducing its corporation tax, like Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"D4QK4GTJURCHJP7D2QKLF7TCDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Stephen Moore told RTÉ radio’s Morning Ireland that he would prefer to see the US reduce its corporation tax rather than raise its tariffs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IWZ33R2J75FQ5BFUS6Y4LZFTEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Ireland has the lowest corporate tax rate in virtually the world. We’ve always pointed to Ireland as really the model for what the United States should do. Better than raising our tariffs would be for the United States to bring our corporate rate down to 15 per cent, which would get closer to where Ireland is.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"UIQ77WCREZAM5PALC3QRCUW3DU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Moore added that he was fearful that <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/trump-presidency\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/trump-presidency\">Mr Trump</a>’s tariff plan would cost US jobs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JBAMSXI74RBATJHMGFOMFMCZ5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The US president is due to announce a new raft of tariffs on Wednesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NI5B6VELVFA2HPA2VSDXQMZ54M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“One of the ironies is that we are trying to protect our manufacturing base in the United States and our hard-working Americans who work the blue-collar jobs. But I do worry that the aluminium and steel tariffs and the other tariffs could actually cost US jobs in those industries because they’re going to make these products more expensive. It’s all in a bit of flux, right now.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZTN2ZFPWXNFTLFOHYLXZEMFOJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prof John McHale told the same programme that “the EU would be wise to take a measured approach to the retaliation”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TOS6DT6IBBH3REJFXDXINLQLI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The reason that you would have retaliation is to try to deter the policies of the Trump administration, but I do not think that Trump will be easily deterred and he’ll probably double down if there’s retaliation, so while there’s a lot of political pressure to retaliate, I think a measured approaches is appropriate.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"26QH57EKXREPVI5RKUMPSJ7VCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prof McHale added that the Irish economy was “definitely going to come under significant stress. The success of the Irish economy has very much been based on integration into the US economy, particularly with the presence of US multinationals here”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DKT5T27J5GZLLB2RL47X2YIBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“And the incentive to base here and to route a lot of their revenues and tax payments through the Irish economy, that is definitely going to come under stress”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJNBCJW3XZCD5JLBZQCF5ADSSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Separately, Tánaiste Simon Harris has confirmed threatened tariffs by the US and reciprocal tariffs by the EU could result in a “significant reduction of around half in the amount of pharmaceuticals we are exporting” to the US over a five-year period.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E47YVKMQHBHKLJGSBYHJ5OOYRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Harris qualified this by saying that “all of this is quite volatile and subject to change”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G2UDOMWTAVAJPICNKGKWDUH2XQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking on his way into Cabinet, Mr Harris said Ireland does not want to be “in that space”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7DOBKSZTJFN3MVXOFD5ELJTQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We don’t want to be in a space where we are seeing 20 per cent tariffs from the EU – we don’t want to be in a space where we see tariffs from the US, we want to be in a space where as a European Union ... we can sit down with the United States of America,” Mr Harris said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CL57URYCPZEPVNDEVNM5JHV5MY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Our economies are interdependent, it’s a trade relationship worth €1.6 trillion between the EU and the US every year. No president of any political persuasion can ignore that reality,” he said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Vivienne Clarke"}},"name":"Vivienne Clarke"}]},"description":{"basic":"US should reduce its corporation tax to 15 per cent to bring it closer to Ireland’s, contends Stephen Moore"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T09:29:45.543Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland ‘the corporate tax model’ of what US should do, says former Trump economic adviser","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ","auth":{"1":"b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ireland-the-corporate-tax-model-of-what-us-should-do-says-former-trump-economic-adviser/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"KGPVJEJNHZDPRBYRBYT3VZHZEQ","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ministers-brace-for-chill-winds-of-trump-tariffs/","content_elements":[{"_id":"LJ4SGIVADVEEDFQIEZNVGNAOEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"There is no doubt that Ireland is beginning to feel the impact of global events on a number of fronts. At the weekend, Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke admitted that the current geopolitical situation, particularly the policies of the Trump administration, would impact the Irish economy, though he hastened to add that it would not be like the shock of 2008. A bit of comfort there, not cold certainly, but not warm either. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FE3P4HAYWFD2FP4RZ4IRTJJ4LY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s reflected in the main stories this morning. Pat Leahy reports that college fees <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2025/04/01/third-level-fees-could-increase-next-year-as-end-to-cost-of-living-supports-mooted/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2025/04/01/third-level-fees-could-increase-next-year-as-end-to-cost-of-living-supports-mooted/\">could creep back up from €2,000 to €3,000 this year</a>, reversing a trend under the previous government for the gradual elimination of fees. Minister for Higher Education James Lawless might consider an effective increase to the fee and using the money saved to promote access to higher education, when budgetary discussions begin later this year. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AAYF2HPZUVBJHIEHLWX2W5OW6E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The reduction in fees was introduced as part of cost-saving measures and it is understood the Department is of the view that €3,000 is the base figure, rather than €2,000. It means fees could be more than €2,000 in the forthcoming academic year for about 70,000 students. That makes up slightly over half – more than 66,000 students get all or some of their fees paid by the State. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LMF4BQ6RGZDXDISOC4QXLUUFWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The main lead this morning, reported by Conor Gallagher, shows there has been a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/04/01/weapons-flights-over-ireland-have-increased-almost-70-per-cent-in-a-decade/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/04/01/weapons-flights-over-ireland-have-increased-almost-70-per-cent-in-a-decade/\">significant increase in the number of aircraft permitted to bring military weapons and ammunitions through Ireland or on Irish registered aircraft</a>, a 14 per cent increase on last year, and a significant two-thirds increase over the past decade. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZN6NWI6N4FGPRFFI55PSBD2B3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The change has been attributed to the war in Ukraine and Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, with most of its weapons, ammunition and materiel being provided by the United States. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XR67GV7XABEBBN6GEEDJJXB3N4","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Wednesday, senators Alice-Mary Higgins, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/lynn-ruane/\" rel=\"\">Lynn Ruane</a>, Frances Black and Eileen Flynn will bring forward a Bill that “seeks to ensure that munitions of war, weapons and dangerous goods are not being transferred to Israel through Ireland, either directly or indirectly”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPRATDJ3UZD5TOLVYLPAPAE2UU","additional_properties":{},"content":"In another significant story, Tánaiste Simon Harris is expected to brief Cabinet colleagues today that exports of Irish pharmaceutical <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/\">could fall by as much as 50 per cent over the next five years</a> if there is a full-scale trade war between the US and EU. It comes in advance of the so-called Liberation Day tomorrow, when US president <a href=\"\" rel=\"\" title=\"\">Donald Trump</a> unleashes a substantial round of global <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs/\">tariffs</a> that will certainly have an impact on Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CZ4WAMPYBFB4PF4HXL2H4K5YNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cormac McQuinn and Pat Leahy report that the general tariffs being announced by the president will not be the last and there could be further additional tariffs on specific sectors. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKKGMJJORBBZ3JS6O6ZG62JSGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Monday Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" rel=\"\">Micheál Martin</a> said the Irish and European view was that “tariffs are bad for the economy” and “will negatively impact on economic growth across the world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DI526DPN7NFWBNEFO26WKPP5KI","additional_properties":{},"content":"That is, for once from a politician, an understatement. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3JT2KQIKRE6PJ7AIITHU5RYTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"At least the infamous phrase from 2008, ‘soft landing’, has not yet been used. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2TSERHLRWBCVRIQ4JTCQVDMLVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Confidence Motion","type":"header"},{"_id":"3GVLVGTQRJDGNM46426U4YJBNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sitting in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann\">Dáil</a> chamber last week was like being thrown into the middle of a concert by Rammstein, the German heavy metal band, with the reputation of being the loudest in the world. The baying from the Opposition benches was deafening, with Pearse Doherty performing what was possibly the world’s longest ever guitar solo. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4JTBJCNONBBSJDACSNQ5VQMC34","additional_properties":{},"content":"We are not quite expecting the same high-jinks today with the motion of confidence in Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\">Verona Murphy</a>. As we expected the Government yesterday came in with an amendment and essentially changed it from a motion of no confidence to one of confidence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6NHBGDSZWRG2XMN6WD2WM6W7WA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The reason for that is simple. It allows the Government to control the debate, by opening it and closing it. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/\">See this Q&A for more background on the issues. </a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"27IMME5Z4ZBCTISQNRITFBH7Y4","additional_properties":{},"content":"I spoke to TDs yesterday and most were of the view that the cacophony won’t reach the same decibel levels. One said it would be “tense”, another said it would be firm from both sides but not a noisy row. “But then who knows these days?” added this TD with an emoji denoting embarrassment. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ZVPOVBZ4JGPHFLORNJJYTJBRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The debate will focus on two separate themes, as far as we can make out. The first is the way the Ceann Comhairle handled the debate last Tuesday, if she misstepped, and was there a reason behind that? The Opposition are obviously of the view that she sided with the Government, either through crash or design. They, and she, deny that. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FLTLKYIZEVHLJIUXM4V4P3LQIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The second theme will hark back to the circumstances behind her appointment. It was obviously one of the preliminary confidence-boosting measures for the Lowry group of Regional Independents in the early days of government formation negotiations with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AZQPK3VTZJACVGD663MQYXL34Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"What were the other elements of the deal? Cian O’Callaghan of the Social Democrats and Michael Collins of Independent Ireland have both pursued this line since January. Obviously there was some kind of arrangement hammered out with the Lowry group in relation to speaking right. Otherwise the Government would not have gone out on a limb to push it through, or as Ruth Coppinger put it, to die on a ditch for the sake of eight minutes. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MRJ43RQC3VCZJIFTAAIOD4FJZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The vote will be taken today. The Government side will easily win. Its impact won’t be properly assessed for months. It could be one of those early days in Government blips that will be forgotten about in the fullness of time. Or it could be one of those events that sets the tone for the Dáil term. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7UGQBT5VJFHQXCAUS5HCE5CZSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The big irony is that the first non-party participant in Leaders’ Questions today will be that new group of ‘other TDs’. If it’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\">Michael Lowry,</a> expect spontaneous combustion on the Opposition benches. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNJCGBFMXRHWDFNPPBQCTXTMXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Best Reads","type":"header"},{"_id":"4QZM3ZUMGZCAVCL5SYJ3B6HGGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mark Hennessy has a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/\">wonderful story from the archives </a>about how Jack Lynch was touched by a letter from a young boy who said he was afraid to play outside after the Bloody Sunday atrocity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LHJ65FXJCRH6FFRNNKC7OSRVYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Extraordinary developments in France <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/2025/03/31/marine-le-pen-found-guilty-in-embezzlement-case/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/2025/03/31/marine-le-pen-found-guilty-in-embezzlement-case/\">where far-right National Rally leader Marine le Pen has been banned</a> from standing for election for five years after being convicted for political embezzlement. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HYU6LPDSEJDU7PX6TUZ77AXM5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fintan O’Toole <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/04/01/fintan-otoole-boys-want-love-trust-and-intimacy-just-as-much-as-girls-do/?\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/04/01/fintan-otoole-boys-want-love-trust-and-intimacy-just-as-much-as-girls-do/?\">reflects on the lessons for boys</a> from the hit series Adolescence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZZNQB2UAJEVZO5C3IM6BCT6YM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former Minister for Climate Eamon Ryan <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/04/01/investment-in-public-transport-is-key-to-success-of-revised-national-planning-framework/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/04/01/investment-in-public-transport-is-key-to-success-of-revised-national-planning-framework/\">says that public transport</a> is key to the new national planning framework. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XMTX5H4UNVBFZE6BOE6Z3Y7IPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Playbook","type":"header"},{"_id":"TPT2MFNC6RFXTPOIHDBTNOJNSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"U5X6JF2GORBXHLVY6O7BNMWWQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Cabinet meets this morning with US tariffs and the national planning framework at the top of the Agenda. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IRQB2Y3SSRAUPDMIA6PYCZ2CQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dáil ","type":"header"},{"_id":"I3TXR5NFYVE27BZ62Y3CHTU47I","additional_properties":{},"content":"14.00: Leaders’ Questions (Sinn Féin, Labour Party, Social Democrats, Independent and Parties Technical Group)","type":"text"},{"_id":"3FY4CNQZ2VFHRICKBTQF7OU5CE","additional_properties":{},"content":"14.34: Order of Business.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LQS5PMJNM5ADLB3GBY4QR6ZGLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"15.04: Protection of Voice and Image Bill 2025 – First Stage","type":"text"},{"_id":"O5JEHXJV3VACNJCNDKBWEIBSGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"15.10: Taoiseach’s Questions. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QVZK2MLOBHYZMB6FWUPMUDGWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"15:50: Motion of Confidence in the Ceann Comhairle plus vote. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UTBV4QF6YNBAJNLFSGO6TWKLXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"18.32: Motions for Revised Estimates for Public Services 2025 [Votes 24, 41 and 46]","type":"text"},{"_id":"QME43YDMPBBLRNQNROMJGDJLOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"19.32: Private Members’ Business (Sinn Féin): Motion re Support Householders, Businesses and Farmers affected by Storm Éowyn in a fair, equitable and timely manner. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5AK4CIHPXVBEJK7HFI2AP2YGG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"21.32: Parliamentary Questions to Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade","type":"text"},{"_id":"AXLLZQSRTBCFXEHEXU5VNTDL2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"23.08: Dáil adjourns","type":"text"},{"_id":"UN6BRT7K4FELFONVTPOAIFHZNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Seanad","type":"header"},{"_id":"WVFDWM7475BRZC35D52VLEAQEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"14.30: Commencement Matters","type":"text"},{"_id":"LMK5VMVX2JAMHFIES3J5U66CUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"16.45: Government Business: <a href=\"https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/bills/bill/2024/64/\" rel=\"\">Merchant Shipping (Investigation of Marine Accidents) Bill 2024</a> – 18.15: <a href=\"https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/bills/bill/2023/97/\" rel=\"\">Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (Amendment) Bill 2023</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5Y2VIGYDP5DMFLUXTPSSAJHVPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"19.45: Seanad adjourns","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y75RTQ2P6BANFKVHRUVNYKIGYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"BH6CDEMPOVHI7JMUUUI2JYD4UI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i>Sign up for </i><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/media/2023/11/07/stay-informed-with-push-alerts-from-the-irish-times-delivered-straight-to-your-phone/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i>Politics push alerts</i></a><i> and have the best news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone</i>","type":"text"},{"_id":"PRRACAOWINGB3ILIO2IVOOBMRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i>Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up for the </i><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/newsletters/inside-politics-newsletter/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/newsletters/inside-politics-newsletter/\"><i>Inside Politics</i></a><i> newsletter to get our politics team’s take direct to your inbox.</i>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWCEU33BIBFD5MOQKYUIBDMLKM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"WZ5GV55IDVGEXLUM4PKTMILQMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"}]},"description":{"basic":"Trade-war could see Irish pharmaceuticals fall by 50 per cent, Cabinet to be told"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T07:04:50.434Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ministers brace for chill winds of Trump tariffs","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Inside Politics Newsletter"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4","auth":{"1":"c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg"}},"subtype":"editors-note","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ministers-brace-for-chill-winds-of-trump-tariffs/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"A77REA5YBZBWDNG4KCJKN6DWIQ","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/can-europe-fight-back-against-trumps-tariffs/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DBAXB2YNCZGO5FOBXXSDA2QRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tomorrow US president Donald Trump is expected to announce tariffs on a wide range of imports from several countries, probably including the European Union. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LVMUDIRSRD2RPIKEX6P3XSLOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"To find out what Trump might do and what steps the EU is considering in response, Hugh Linehan is joined by economics columnist Cliff Taylor and Europe correspondent Jack Power. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T07:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Can Europe fight back against Trump’s tariffs? ","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM","auth":{"1":"24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":2536.296,"episodeTitle":"EU leaders have become resigned to a trade war with Trump. But how far will it go? ","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/episodes/67eaaed87828ca699c3f5bfa.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/can-europe-fight-back-against-trumps-tariffs/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"FP2NSTKARVC4XONVK5QFRVQ3KA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":190,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/564be3f8-7cdb-4f7c-a532-5af645b74fe3/versions/1743451454/media/f83a1659eef1d1a1e8be250aa02d8477_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/","content_elements":[{"_id":"762ZRYM4IZEDFMR7NAUTM75JZ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851068},"content":"Irish pharmaceutical exports to the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states/\" target=\"_blank\">United States</a> are projected to drop by half over the next five years in the event of a trade war between the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union/\" target=\"_blank\">European Union</a> and the US, officials have estimated.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHC7GFRVDVGKZNPJ745A5KO4DM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851069},"content":"As the EU braces for the announcement of a raft of tariffs by the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\">Trump</a> administration on Wednesday, the Cabinet will be told today that Irish exports would drop by 50 per cent by 2030 if the US goes ahead with an expected 20 per cent tariff and the EU retaliates with a similar move.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZVFKHJ4P5CWRELCWNWGAMTFP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851070},"content":"That would likely cost the Irish exchequer several billions of euro in lost revenue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I3UGVASYKRH3TAO7IORPBELBYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851071},"content":"Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\" target=\"_blank\">Simon Harris</a> will brief ministerial colleagues at today’s Cabinet meeting after he held a series of discussions with his European counterparts in recent weeks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDK74TYSMJAXRJ5RDFS4BKCK2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851072},"content":"Officials in several government departments have also been attempting to assess the likely economic implications of expected moves by the Trump administration and retaliation by the EU.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VNI37SKQMJHYHLYTFQD5WXZ75A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851073},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/government/\" target=\"_blank\">Government</a> hopes that following the announcement of tariffs on Wednesday the EU and US can move to a period of negotiation, rather than enter a tit-for-tat trade war.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GSG6KNNYNBDPPFAJ3EJHXWNY6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851074},"content":"But this may depend on the severity of what the US announces. While a general tariff of between 20-25 per cent is expected, there may be additional tariffs announced or signalled for the future on a number of sectors, including pharmaceuticals.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TF5A5WY3CJACRKCHJRUJYG2ALU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851075},"content":"Mr Harris is to attend a summit of EU trade ministers in Luxembourg on Sunday when they are expected to make decisions on how the EU would retaliate to any new US tariffs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UKCNQFMMDNE4PI7IFYA6SW5E2M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851076},"content":"Later today Mr Harris is to hold trade talks with the Italian foreign minister Antonio Tajani.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P4XNBF3F3JDHRI5YD2WT2KMBNI","additional_properties":{"_id":"4VINSV3XLRBF3IWAQCDQNHWSUQ"},"content":"US tariffs: Ireland to bolster competitiveness ahead of looming trade war","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"YPXJTBDAFVBFFHNYIGODR4G4OU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851077},"content":"On Monday Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Micheál Martin</a> said the Irish and European view was that “tariffs are bad for the economy” and “will negatively impact on economic growth across the world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4GENGIJHGRGFZG33HX5URRGXG4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851078},"content":"He said he hoped talks would take place and that “a landing zone suitable to everybody could be arrived at through negotiation and dialogue between the European Union and the US”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IGSBQ4HKMVHEPOG2PSXOMAPLUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851079},"content":"Separately, Minister for Public Expenditure <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-chambers/\" target=\"_blank\">Jack Chambers</a> is to brief Cabinet on the process of updating the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/national-development-plan/\" target=\"_blank\">National Development Plan</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CUEGQ52PGJF73JN5E2WKVYKJVQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851080},"content":"The review of the plan is said by a source to have “taken on greater significance” in the context of threatened US tariffs and their potential impact on the Irish economy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YVWK5ISG4VACXDBLMNQB3SVP4E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851081},"content":"Mr Chambers is expected to tell colleagues that the best way to safeguard against the effects of the tariffs is to focus investment in capital public projects and to tackle infrastructure deficits.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7KLWBQD2MFDXBNUUMR2TU3VCNE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851082},"content":"This is seen as “critical” for boosting economic growth and enhancing Ireland’s competitiveness.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUQYCWQQGJEGBM3Y2AXK5VDQFE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851083},"content":"There is to be a particular focus in the review on supporting housing provision as well as greater investment in energy, water, transport infrastructure and health digitalisation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I43KNPGRRZBRXGI2WS34ZS4QXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851084},"content":"The review of the development plan is due to be completed in July.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YEFQUBE3XJBVBJHLTZXPVNNFAI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851085},"content":"Ministers will be asked to identify projects that can be delivered on time and in budget, with a particular focus on achieving value for money.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Cabinet to be briefed on potential impact of US tariffs on the EU"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Irish pharma exports to US projected to halve over five years in event of trade war","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU","auth":{"1":"6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4"},"focal_point":{"x":2643,"y":1849},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"EDOGOZDTINFCDDJ75CXH6SCRLE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":259,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/21930cf9-b454-418d-a37b-b195dec545ee/versions/1743452769/media/bad34740c841bc32d1d83cbe914e1394_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/majority-of-homeowners-to-see-property-tax-increases-of-between-5-and-25/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UKTBC6HRGZDQJEPC2JM4MM2X2A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247172},"content":"The majority of homeowners will see <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/local-property-tax/\" target=\"_blank\">local property tax</a> (LPT) increases of between €5 and €25 following a revaluation of properties due to take place later this year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V7LQAQGJQ5AKPPLUDHE6GUKSOE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247173},"content":"Minister for Finance <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paschal-donohoe/\" target=\"_blank\">Paschal Donohoe</a> is expected to brief the Cabinet today on proposed changes to the LPT charging mechanism that are designed to limit the impact of rising property values on householders’ LPT rates.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQZ7CJ5RSBAAHFV5KQDGM5GGUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247174},"content":"The revaluation of properties for the LPT regime, the first since 2021, is due to happen in November. There was an average 23 per cent increase in property prices nationally between November 2021 and the end of 2024.","type":"text"},{"_id":"52LMTIP75NHTTGBGPSCCC3W57M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247175},"content":"Without any changes to LPT bands or rates, about 70 per cent of properties would move up at least one band, which would result in a significant increase in LPT.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CMZRR4QXQZD3PLSX2S7ONVZVTY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247176},"content":"However, under the changes being proposed by Mr Donohoe, 97 per cent of properties are predicted to stay within the same band, with 3 per cent predicted to move up one band.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RPCENKEEANAYLJ335XCLRPTQMI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247177},"content":"The Irish Times understands that, as a result of the planned changes, the new annual LPT rate for most homeowners after the revaluation will be between €5 and €25 higher depending on their property’s value.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UDA76BTHXBDDLAKBORJFI3O7YU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247178},"content":"Separately, Mr Donohoe is expected to seek Government approval for a six-month extension of the lower 9 per cent <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/vat/\" target=\"_blank\">VAT</a> rate on gas and electricity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BFOPJ2YTLZCU3CJNHHJ3V7W44A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247179},"content":"The VAT rate had been due to return to 13.5 per cent on May 1st but Mr Donohoe is proposing to bring a financial resolution to the Dáil on Wednesday to extend the 9 per cent rate to October 31st.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5DPSVTJ2LVCQBJZW3CZG2NCDOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247180},"content":"Meanwhile, Minister for Justice <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\">Jim O’Callaghan</a> is to seek Cabinet approval for new regulations related to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-garda-siochana/\" target=\"_blank\">Garda</a> conduct, performance and appointments.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MT632CETSVBWLEBXTBADZLIBIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247181},"content":"This secondary legislation is needed to support the commencement of the major Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024 from Wednesday onwards.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TOPOMJPXYZC4POAXOUZJ2RDZZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247182},"content":"The Act brings into effect a number of recommendations made by the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/commission-on-the-future-of-policing/\" target=\"_blank\">Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SHST3OR5P5BNPCMZJK26QKC5UE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247183},"content":"When the Act is commenced tomorrow, the new Policing and Community Safety Authority will replace the existing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/policing-authority/\" target=\"_blank\">Policing Authority</a> and Garda Síochána Inspectorate. The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/garda-siochana-ombudsman-commission/\" target=\"_blank\">Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission</a> (Gsoc) will be restructured to become Fiosrú – the Office of the Police Ombudsman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ZG3BTSCFFACTKQD5ELBQGEEI4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247184},"content":"Among the new regulations is one that means Garda members can request an appeal against a final determination of gross misconduct, with an appeal being heard by a retired judge who would be an “impartial adjudicator” of the evidence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVLWYE5CKVA7BACCRPFEQ7P3DA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247185},"content":"Minister for Housing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/james-browne/\" target=\"_blank\">James Browne</a> will tell Cabinet there has been an increase in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/housing-crisis/\" target=\"_blank\">housing</a> commencements since the introduction of the development contribution waiver and Uisce Éireann connection charge rebate in April 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DIDZ45NVKNAXZFNAKY6IX3B6HA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247186},"content":"Data shows 69,060 homes were commenced in 2024 compared with 26,957 in 2022, representing an increase of 156 per cent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QZDGATDIJFFCPITKXRWO4EO7EY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247187},"content":"Developers now have 21 months left to complete these housing developments to qualify for the waivers. Mr Browne is expected to tell Cabinet the schemes will not be extended further.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B3DZINOP5ZHIZKX6PRRY7XP5ZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247188},"content":"Minister for Children <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/norma-foley/\" target=\"_blank\">Norma Foley</a> is to bring a memo on allowing the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/state-claims-agency/\" target=\"_blank\">State Claims Agency</a> (SCA) to handle any potential claims relating to the Office of the Director of Authorised Intervention, Tuam.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AKYQO3QU6VGEJLBO7QUZDSOUUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247189},"content":"The role of the office is to recover, where possible to identify, and re-bury in a respectful and appropriate way, the children who were inappropriately buried at the site of the former <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mother-and-baby-homes/\" target=\"_blank\">mother and baby institution</a> in Tuam, Co Galway. Including the office under the SCA’s remit is said to be “standard practice” for newly established public bodies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HXHUIWBEOFH3VBCK23F7EPJYC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247190},"content":"Meanwhile, Minister for Health <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jennifer-carroll-macneill/\" target=\"_blank\">Jennifer Carroll MacNeill</a> will brief colleagues on a 70 per cent fall in the number of patients on hospital trolleys over the St Patrick’s bank holiday weekend last month compared with St Brigid’s weekend in February.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIDXLI4ETFDZTGRRNQGIL5L2OA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247191},"content":"Ministers will be told that an increase in on-site decision-making doctors was a significant factor in the reduction.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"}]},"description":{"basic":"Paschal Donohoe expected to brief colleagues on proposed changes to LPT charging mechanism to limit the impact of rising property values on householders "},"display_date":"2025-04-01T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Majority of Irish homeowners to see property tax increases this year ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM","auth":{"1":"a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e"},"focal_point":{"x":1893,"y":1263},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/majority-of-homeowners-to-see-property-tax-increases-of-between-5-and-25/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"74D23GOVMZDQBFRZIX3LWRDLPE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":359,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/fa25cd3e-08c9-46e5-9624-0d3dffe674c6/versions/1743454577/media/fe6cc8effa3ad3e9d11d41c6b00d7889_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/norths-unionists-can-learn-from-britains-record-on-diversity/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HLHPN4G4PJCHFHN53UZ4DPOHWM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892802},"content":"Often, it appears the best that Northern Ireland unionists can hope for is that things will not get any worse. None of the unionist political parties they support, however grudgingly, offer any sense that they understand today’s challenges, or show how they can be best dealt with inside the United Kingdom.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FM2UIBGJCFAXNKPY6AOPU235A4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892803},"content":"Recent attempts by Prof Peter Shirlow and former DUP adviser Lee Reynolds to put forward a positive case for Northern Ireland staying in the United Kingdom, and using statistics to back up the argument, are welcome.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JDBMIFD32NDRTMFMVSP4Y4FQQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892804},"content":"However, statistics do not amount to a much-needed coherent strategy for change within political unionism, especially if it is concerned just with articulating a positive outlook on what is happening in Northern Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BVT3COABM5DFHMLTKRO2CU7NSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892805},"content":"There has been little emphasis in anything that has been put forward by the Safeguarding the Union group involving Shirlow and Reynolds that deals with the future, or addresses the concerns that shape the attitudes of many across Northern Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7I3OIY4JM5CQTLHST7TRPX4I4I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892806},"content":"A strategy might be, as Tony Blair put it, “something which relegates the short term to its proper place and assists the long-term fulfilment of the overall plan”. Set against that measure, what is the overall plan guiding unionists today?","type":"text"},{"_id":"24TW5MLAWBGXVER3ID7HTBJAUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892807},"content":"Currently, the unionist message is obsessively internalised and lacks any sense of scale or ambition. Positive stories of success from the fields of literature, art, sport or business are useful, but those stories must be wove into a political narrative.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UIUHTSPGVRDZBPQISO6BUPZ5LI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892809},"content":"Traditional unionist thinking is counterproductive precisely because it lacks the persuasive appeal that is necessary to expand political support and to reach new constituencies. And it fails to understand that holding hardline positions turns people away, not brings them near.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W5V4RE6WANBAPJUUR2PPUQSPIQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"3WDDOMCT6RHCZEEROZY6UYZMLY"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"UIUHTSPGVRDZBPQISO6BUPZ5LI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892809},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FYPN7FE7ZVAJVMGXHVCDAKKMTA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892810},"content":"Dry statistics about economic growth, public investment, education and identity shifts have their uses, but such information needs to be used to show how everyone living in Northern Ireland can live in a society where tolerance, movement and possibility are the norms, not the exceptions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q3GIVZSZXVDW7OPH2C4VRIGVQ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892811},"content":"The political theorist Joseph Nye, who has written extensively about the relevance of soft power, argues that the influence of such power rests upon a nation’s “culture, its values and its policies when they are seen as legitimate by others”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZXZWLCQBBVC7BJLJJPB3L2TZGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892812},"content":"The notion of softness is crucial, not a luxury. Rigid and ungenerous positions inhibit soft power. If political unionism is to reach and convince those with different ideas about the future then it must embrace the “fuzziness” that so many people have when they define their own identity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QL357O6LENCVDJXLFZXWWKFBUM","content":"‘This new generation doesn’t like the past’: A night at a unionist meeting","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"HOO5E3R2LVB4VFQFPNEDWLC2JY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892813},"content":"In the real world, people are not just this – or that. Often, they are both, and more, much more. This complexity indicates how identity in relation to place and belonging can be overlapping and even contradictory.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7XDCCGD44BFYNB4MMLHM6L2AGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892814},"content":"Political unionism’s stress on certainty even manages to ignore the porous and interdependent identities that are part of the modern United Kingdom. It cannot, and should not be seen as static or settled, or unable to promote inclusion and diversity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7MSXLGAELBBBRCTRSPFEI7BBBQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892815},"content":"The question of what it means to be British, or Irish, raises questions about the similarities and differences that exist. Efforts to declare one better than the other based on separation merely plays into polarisation that prevents constructive engagement between both.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JCSWXXYBSVEI3LILUDI34GDZUA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892816},"content":"Only recently, we have come to notice that there are nearly 6 million people in Britain who have at least one Irish grandparent, which highlights the ties that bind all of us on these islands in ways that Northern Ireland’s unionist parties prefer to ignore.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LNYI3TK7NRDYHHZV6GWRZNW2DE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892817},"content":"Yet this web of connections and identities could be used by political unionism to better sell the benefits of the union. Britishness is welcoming, diverse and more than one identity. It is adaptive and changing. Yes, there are strains caused by immigration. But, by and large, Britishness remains diffuse and fair to others. Why has this not translated into a similar message within Northern Ireland for the various communities and groups who live there but do not see themselves as unionist?","type":"text"},{"_id":"IRMWW3VIKRFSLKD225QYOVERZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892819},"content":"The recitation of facts and statistics alone will not do this. Stories and values motivate more. Relying on figures alone is short-sighted, at best. Moreover, those who benefit from economic growth will already know this while those living in poverty will feel even more excluded.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7OT43PEQL5HDTDWLJ7DP4U65NM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892820},"content":"Instead, unionists in Northern Ireland must offer a future based on respect, opportunity, possibility and movement. Differences should be encouraged, not shunned. It is important to understand, as Edmund Burke did, that you cannot logic your way in to a better society.","type":"text"},{"_id":"APJBMFF62JEOPGYHKRNYIFMD4Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892821},"content":"Emotion must be harnessed to a common goal that encourages consensus, not divisions. Political unionism in Northern Ireland should start with self-searching questions not just about how it sees itself but how others see it too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HQWVXLDADVDSJIINHPCRDKQPTI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892822},"content":"How does political unionism want to transform Northern Ireland? What sort of relationship does it want with Dublin and the rest of the UK? It must begin to see possibilities, not problems. It must encourage diversity, not sectarianism.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HT6KOU737RB3HB254CQVC6P3S4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892823},"content":"It is surely now time for political unionism to widen its horizons and to show more imagination to cope with the Northern Ireland of today, not just the flawed one of the past or, worse, the Northern Ireland they imagine, but one that never was.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VOMAD3VPBNHZVLAH23US547J3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892824},"content":"<i>Graham Spencer is Emeritus Professor in Social and Political Conflict at the University of Portsmouth</i>","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Graham Spencer"}]},"description":{"basic":"Using statistics to defend the union will have little persuasive power"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T20:51:09.414Z","headlines":{"basic":"North’s unionists can learn from Britain’s record on diversity","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Common Ground Voices"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU","auth":{"1":"6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4","auth":{"1":"3621094a80576cd9edf9549c0d2d7a76011c5f5dcb887e8390b004644bcf2848"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4.png"}},"subtype":"opinion","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/norths-unionists-can-learn-from-britains-record-on-diversity/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"SGK6DSX6XBE6XANEYBYGDPDIPQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":192,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/d1ee7b26-8719-44c3-95c1-9b05e8c323e3/versions/1743443545/media/d73e8d24f5c0366074dc98b2ec1d7dfa_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/","content_elements":[{"_id":"MNQ7SO5PD5HFVMSVZCCRRKSK3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"After chaotic scenes in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\">Dáil </a>last week, the Opposition has tabled a motion of no confidence in the Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\">Verona Murphy </a>for Tuesday. Is this unusual? ","type":"header"},{"_id":"ZJXUSNSN5BB55D6HSIEJNMBTUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It certainly is. It is the first time such a motion has been put down and certainly the first time it will be debated. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCOS7LU7FVGGNC5MLKMJZ2OCTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Opposition parties have threatened to submit no confidence motions in the ceann comhairle before. This happened in 2004 when Fianna Fáil TD Rory O’Hanlon was ceann comhairle and again in 2014 when Seán Barrett of Fine Gael was in the chair. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IW2FE7RKFFCH7NRO2ZWE7WTXAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The closest the Dáil got to an actual motion being debated was in 2009 when Labour said it had no confidence in John O’Donoghue, who was caught up in a controversy over lavish spending on official trips abroad, on hotels and limousines. Mr O’Donoghue’s resignation made such a motion moot. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5LDH6LZ3DVAJVMG6RI3TL5SYBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"But it is not a motion of no confidence any more?","type":"header"},{"_id":"LLK7JDDQKFESJA6M2XOT4MYPMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since about midday Monday it is a motion of confidence. Whenever the Opposition tables a motion of no confidence, the Government invariably amends it and changes it into a motion of confidence. The reason for that is it gives the Government parties the right to open the debate and then speak at the end. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RCKVEZ46X5DPTD7AV6POQ2GBGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Cabinet is expected to approve the text of the confidence motion on Tuesday morning.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4VRATA2MVDAFKDIDCEXVY57TU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Why has the Opposition lost confidence in Ms Murphy?","type":"header"},{"_id":"2FQ3ZWW5URA7PM6NKI43X7RLOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Opposition parties claim her handling of events in the Dáil last Tuesday was not impartial or fair. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NFPO24JIMJGXPIEADVEMRWPFQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last week, the Government decided to push through new standing orders (Dáil rules) that proposed giving new speaking slots to a small group of TDs led by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a>. The Opposition began to protest loudly and the Chamber quickly descended into chaos. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DUBZJYECPZDGPKJNMSQF3XF2ME","additional_properties":{},"content":"Amid the deafening din, the Ceann Comhairle decided to proceed with business although it was almost impossible to hear what was being said. In that confusion, the Opposition claims, Ms Murphy did not follow proper procedures and somehow teamed up with the Government. Ms Murphy strenuously denies these allegations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UJUX2V4CFRBADE345JTDTVNDRE","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-3820","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"JSQHDF2FUZEOTOHUZEFDSU2F5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Is there evidence to support the Opposition’s claims?","type":"header"},{"_id":"HYAJK4TYINBSBCWDMRMFKJTK2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy is supported by the clerk of the Dáil, who reported last Wednesday that she followed all procedures correctly. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UNFTGVQGY5FH5JBHDSUHQ37V3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\">Sinn Féin</a> and other parties did a line-by-line analysis of the recording and claim the clerk’s report is “flawed”. Specifically, the Opposition parties say, Ms Murphy should have put the standing order to a vote. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FBVRGLQCJJAUPIMWFF7OY3NC4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"What can we expect from the vote?","type":"header"},{"_id":"SUMPJ3TGXRFEBGWZL5SCFDFVSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The debate is due to begin shortly before 4pm and will last for two hours. It will be unusual in that the chair of the house – who is nominally above party politics – will be defended by one side and criticised by the other. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6GOM4DEM65EYPNCQXI62TGQQKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"She will comfortably survive in the vote, as the Government maintains a majority in the Dáil. More up in the air is how her relationship with the Opposition will pan out into the future. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"72XJQH27FRA2VDJ3PTXUB67VSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"}]},"description":{"basic":"The Cabinet is expected to approve the text of the confidence motion on Tuesday morning"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T17:47:18.906Z","headlines":{"basic":"Q&A: Is the Ceann Comhairle confidence motion unprecedented?","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM","auth":{"1":"c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"GGMP4OWTZFGTFI5X4645RMBETA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":415,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/35873a19-2ea3-4125-8ff1-fbd69f7ad1c9/versions/1743433169/media/f75f7d52808f09011de197076e6159a7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HHR5ANINDVHNPPACPIDSIEOS7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309244},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"32XU3NBDVJDJ3L2T3B6VYJ5L5I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309245},"content":"In March 1972, just weeks after Bloody Sunday when 13 unarmed civilians were shot by British Army paratroopers, a young Derry boy named Cormac Quigley wrote to taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\">Jack Lynch</a> expressing his unhappiness that he was not able to go outside to play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VNOEGMVHREAZLBRKPSTCT3B7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309246},"content":"During some of the darkest days of the Troubles, the letter touched Lynch, who told the boy he understood his “feelings of boredom at not being able to play freely in your own city”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GRH63GROGNDX7JKRZRXCATP2GY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309247},"content":"In the reply, drafted on his behalf by an official, Lynch said he “hopes and prays” Northern Ireland’s problems would soon be resolved, adding he “anxiously awaited” British ideas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UO7YLYHQ7JCEXAXKTUUK5HMNXQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309249},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7L5OIXR5VEBNGLTUIVPBS276Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309250},"content":"The letter is one of thousands of documents published in the latest volume of Documents on Irish Foreign Policy covering the years 1969 to 1973,, launched on Monday night by Minister of State for International Development and the Diaspora Neale Richmond.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZG6G5QTABRFZNIP5X66EFGL3LI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309252},"content":"The files show how, from 1969, Dublin struggled to understand what was happening on the ground in Northern Ireland, responding “awkwardly, caught seemingly unaware by the violence and without a prepared strategy”, the book’s editors write.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTULADS3PRFOTIFUYAOL37CQQM","additional_properties":{},"content":"By July 1969, Northern Ireland had begun to occupy minds in Iveagh House, though a major policy document then being worked on as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/patrick-hillery/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/patrick-hillery/\">Paddy Hillery</a> took over as minister for external affairs was quickly overtaken by events.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FLT46YFBQFAAVED374S7WWESZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309255},"content":"Warnings about the future came daily. In late July 1969, Con Howard, based in the Irish Embassy in London, relayed <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-hume/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-hume/\">John Hume’s</a> fear that “Derry is a powder keg” and that Stormont “had lost control”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZWUOQUFENDTHOP4NRCMFKYRXE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309256},"content":"Offering a prescient alarm, Hume said the August 12th Apprentice Boys march “was going to be particularly dangerous”, since the organisers planned on bringing 73 bands instead of the usual 17.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MM6ALP4IXVFCFPRSKQWC43BVP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309257},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"THZL3X6OUFGARGIIIFAQUDR4FQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309259},"content":"Northern Ireland’s prime minister James Chichester-Clark could not ban the Derry march, he accepted, because “the right wing of the Ulster Unionist Party would tear the organisation apart” if he tried.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFYA3IGOYRFLDKEUEHXAMAJW4A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309260},"content":"Sending in British troops would “be dicey” but it might “be a lesser evil than the use of B Specials”, he said, though it would be extremely important that soldiers were “carefully briefed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBDKGGTQPFAGDKN6VXJM7DC3QE","additional_properties":{"_id":"PG4GXSBEQVFH7EUEJ25ITP5UX4"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ZIGEEIEMXVCI5GQO7U3XKBKZPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309261},"content":"In early August, Hillery, still settling into Iveagh House, warned the British foreign secretary Michael Stewart that preparations for the Apprentice Boys “had been deliberately stepped up”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HIS4ALPOGBA73CVS2H4KZG33YY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309262},"content":"London then, and for several years more, however, refused to accept Dublin’s right to involve itself or to even offer opinions, saying responsibility rested with London and Stormont “and not with your government”, the files show.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SLWJGXSL5BHDHC42HOBSCBFPFA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309263},"content":"Noting Hillery’s concern, Stewart declared: “I must say to you that there is a limit to the extent to which we can discuss with outsiders – even our nearest neighbours - this internal matter.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DYJFG4F5NNGRNIH5NPCBJKH2VM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309264},"content":"Taking a determined line, Hillery warned his counterpart that serious disorder in Derry “might well spill over into his country” and, then, it would have to be raised before the United Nations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4FPBOBCFKZHN3FO3II3ZM6LR4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309265},"content":"Even with the deep apprehension held about the loyalist march, Lynch’s cabinet was still unprepared for what unfolded in Derry, “so much so that several ministers, including Hillery, were on holiday”, the book’s editors write.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IGIMGWX3T5GJRD6B4TSU2BCCCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Partition was a male invention. Gender impacted on how revolutionary events unfolded, and how partition was remembered","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"W5CXIYVTDJCXTL6EKBHTJDKJT4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309266},"content":"The volume carries many of the memos written by Irish official Eamonn Gallagher, who went to Derry without the approval of his superiors in August 1969 to learn what was happening on the ground.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EHG54MJ3HRFYJNORNFOTDAMJF4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309267},"content":"There, he formed a lasting friendship with Hume, even later sharing family holidays. Soon he became a trusted adviser to both Lynch and Hillery, until he fell out of favour with Lynch in 1972 after he boasted of how he dominated the Corkman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MXBSCVHGH5D7NLOE72YQIOVTK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309268},"content":"In March 1971, just weeks after the death of gunner Robert Curtis, the first British soldier to die in the Troubles, and rioting had scarred Belfast and Derry, Gallagher sat down to pen a note to his superiors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YD3IE2TSFBFPXHMPY45LWKXCZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309269},"content":"“In dealing with the North, one must constantly be on guard against both depression and euphoria,” said the Glasgow-born official, who argued for peaceful Irish unity, along with close co-operation with Hume.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E4DCMJSKPRECHE4WFI675GJC7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309270},"content":"Reflecting the fevered atmosphere, Gallagher warned “it is difficult to avoid infection” from contacts because “even the most stable of them swing from one mood to the other.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SQIPCLLAVBBRFNKFWUNHPUHQNA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309271},"content":"“Depending on the controlling mood of the moment everything said and done ... is interpreted more or less inaccurately and what doesn’t fit the momentary state of mind tends to be ignored,” he wrote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HJAKVGN67FDB3HS7G7OTWBDTE4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309272},"content":"Early on, the government realised that it had few links with influential British journalists and politicians and a major lobbying effort was put in hand, quickly paying dividends and becoming jocularly known as “dining for Ireland”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JSXA2QRMHRH7XOUTWYDXBWBY7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309273},"content":"By early February 1972, Gallagher cautioned against an idea of leaving the London lobbying to a Geneva-based public relations firm Markpress that had been hired for some work the year before.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CWUFRTMDUVHG5POG6274ZJ73G4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309274},"content":"The diplomats had been “very effective” with the Sunday Times and others, though the Guardian’s Northern Irish and unionist deputy editor John Cole had “managed to prevent” it from “coming as far with us as its liberal reputation might have suggested”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WBVW573G3REYFGPTAKPIS2DZUI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309275},"content":"Throughout the research, which has led to a volume running to more than 1,000 pages, Dr Kate O’Malley of the Royal Irish Academy had the sense of the fears, even near panic, felt by officials and politicians that everything could fall apart.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSO2VCSKHNHS5MS7G47TMN3RQM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309276},"content":"“There’s something not right about some of the material we looked [at]. There’s a lack of telegrams. There’s a lack of handwritten notes about phone calls or even typed notes about phone calls,” she said, all reflecting the rush of the time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J6TTDPWH3FBVHGX2XZEYG4QOSM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309277},"content":"For some, Bloody Sunday was “the last straw”, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VB2RRLFDF5GV5M6PZCZUAQB6PE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Albert Reynolds tried to justify appointment of controversial attorney-general Whelehan to High Court","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"G3N7J7JJVVCLNOERMAZKYG4I6Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309278},"content":"In one file, an Irish Army intelligence officer present in Derry on the day reported the paratroopers’ undisciplined firing and witnessing the killing of one man who had lain injured for minutes on the road.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SP34OF767JHOJEWSXBFRTGBVEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309279},"content":"“I, then, saw the man’s coat jump twice in the air, saw two puffs of smoke at his back and also heard two shot reports. All of this happened in quick succession,” wrote the officer, whose name is redacted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PJCEYFURLZDXRIABNZEJLV6I34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309280},"content":"Irish embassy official Charles Whelan was warned, a day after the Derry killings by a senior foreign office official Kelvin White, that he would end a meeting if he continued to accuse the British Army of “telling lies”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BLC56SZJRJDRTAOYUZQ6CIKX3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309281},"content":"Insisting that the paratroopers were disciplined troops, White deplored the Irish government’s call for a convention to discuss “a final settlement of the Irish question”, as he called it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3KMGWPX2NBAKNNQXBHBQIID6KA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309282},"content":"In the end, the two diplomats sought a way of parting on reasonable terms, with White telling his Irish counterpart: “We have both lost and the only people to have gained are the IRA.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hennessy"}},"name":"Mark Hennessy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Derry boy Cormac Quigley’s note arrived during some of the darkest days of the Troubles"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T14:54:23.301Z","headlines":{"basic":"Boy’s letter about not being able to play outside after Bloody Sunday touched taoiseach, new State records show","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Common Ground","url":"/common-ground/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ","auth":{"1":"45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0"},"focal_point":{"x":462,"y":357},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4","auth":{"1":"3621094a80576cd9edf9549c0d2d7a76011c5f5dcb887e8390b004644bcf2848"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"RVRLQP4GUZEXBJDC34QQT62AJY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":228,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/96934825-1041-4011-8a84-bd0dbdc75bb3/versions/1743363868/media/88949951308254abde9b22d73cedfe25_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/legislation-being-examined-as-way-to-deal-with-dublin-airport-cap-once-and-for-all/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FDDVICAWBFDOJGC5NWMYDLWPEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government is to consider interventions to lift the passenger cap at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\">Dublin Airport</a>, including potentially passing laws allowing the limit to be increased. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6KPZVNO53JA2TBAZJAITD23FPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The cap of 32 million passengers coming through the airport annually is at the centre of a protracted planning saga, with the Government of the view the limit hinders economic growth. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4HEUV57J7ZCT3J3YAH56T2MARA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Coalition sources said the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport-authority/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport-authority/\">DAA</a>, which runs the airport, will be expected to persevere with its planning application – but even if a favourable outcome is reached, they believe it could be between three and five years before a solution is in place.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZVMZSS4AVZDFLOAUFJD27GFSMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We need permanent solutions,” one senior Government source said, adding that the current situation could not be tolerated.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BHORL5AAURAU5KARAA4UQG7OSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Transport <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-o-brien/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-o-brien/\">Darragh O’Brien</a> has now received updated advice from attorney general <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rossa-fanning/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rossa-fanning/\">Rossa Fanning</a> on the matter, which includes the potential to pass legislation effectively carving the decision out from planning laws. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LFMP7QGBZHJPDXB2PKCCJFWHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"One potential precedent is 2022 legislation on temporary energy generation, which disapplied planning laws to designated developments, although it is understood that such an approach is not risk free and would likely face a challenge by those opposed to increasing the passenger cap. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEFSP2KDGZH3HAGRQBLOYKMZ2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Draft options for moving forward are expected to be sent to Mr O’Brien in coming weeks. He will hold meetings with airlines this week, including the lobby group Airlines for America, amid suggestions the row could be politicised with the risk carriers could formally complain to the US government about the cap, which they believe breaches EU-North American air travel treaties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UOR3HNID2VDXJKV2FUMF3U2PIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wednesday could see the start of a US-EU trade war – how would Ireland be affected?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"WNAAIVHHPFBRLHWWFHPWD7HEOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"There is a view within Government that increased headwinds for foreign direct investment and the looming likelihood of an EU-US trade war have added to the case for action. “It’s clear the cap as it currently is in place, even if paused, has the potential to ensure we lose future investment,” a senior source said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"J3D27BIPSBH77DCAKMHPO6WVLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"A group of airlines last week <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/28/airlines-urge-high-court-judge-to-extend-pause-on-dublin-airport-passenger-cap/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/28/airlines-urge-high-court-judge-to-extend-pause-on-dublin-airport-passenger-cap/\">sought an extension</a> to a current pause on the introduction of the cap, but the Government believes such an approach is “not sustainable going forward”. Mr O’Brien is said to have met the attorney general in recent days along with senior officials and is now understood to be “looking at legislative ways forward for dealing with the cap once and for all”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4VAPPLUQNEDTIIJ6EXBWCKH74","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin Airport cap at risk of being dragged into US trade tensions","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"4CNZPOJABNGPBPF73ZTWBBIUSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It comes as the government braces for the announcement of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs/\">tariffs on the EU</a> by the Trump White House, with coalition ministers signalling over the weekend that reforms targeting Irish competitiveness and the domestic economy were needed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HK2KOVQTSRHXZEN44HW56P2TTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement to The Irish Times, Tánaiste <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\">Simon Harris</a> said it was “vital that we accelerate measures to further increase our competitiveness and strengthen our position as a good location in which to invest and create jobs”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NEUSEC2NTRBI3AMHEH6FXUIPDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Harris, who will brief cabinet on Tuesday on the latest tariff developments, will speak to other European countries with large pharmaceutical sectors as the Government intensifies efforts to shield those parts of the Irish economy likely to be exposed to US tariffs as the EU intends to target US producers in their sectors. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EVC7UXSEWNFOVLXPWSKEIGQM7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> spoke to EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday evening, raising Ireland’s “particular focus” on the food, drinks and pharma industries. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SEEMY6BUYVG7LB23BDMFKOS2W4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach says Ireland will protect food, pharma sectors in call with EU Commission","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"6Y2QDFLAGZGBXM4E7HV5K6YDFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Enterprise <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peter-burke/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peter-burke/\">Peter Burke</a> will brief coalition leaders on plans to “sharpen up” on competitiveness, including new legislation on private wires which allow individuals or other energy users to run their own cables to transfer electricity, reform to security clearance for investment through Enterprise Ireland and Environmental Protection Agency licensing reform. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"C72VPMRZ4RE6THIB2MY6LE4I34","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fine Gael sources pointed to Programme for Government commitments to cut red tape for firms as a priority, as is a promised cut in the VAT rate for hospitality. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}]},"description":{"basic":"Potential for EU-US trade war has added to need for action on passenger cap"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Legislation being examined as way to deal with Dublin Airport cap ‘once and for all’","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI","auth":{"1":"a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0"},"focal_point":{"x":2157,"y":1523},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Transport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/legislation-being-examined-as-way-to-deal-with-dublin-airport-cap-once-and-for-all/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"BAL5DASJKZBI5OILQQX53DGGFE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":176,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/33872c09-c030-43c8-a4d4-3cc952d2220c/versions/1743358318/media/3bdb619b79874803014be4e2fac63213_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/those-convicted-of-killing-their-spouse-face-losing-guardianship-rights-under-draft-laws/","content_elements":[{"_id":"N4RGMIC6FJCCXPMM3VSKE7ZTMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Those convicted of killing their spouse face losing guardianship rights over their children, under draft laws to be brought to Cabinet this week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BK5EIQPSPRBR7G3B7UT5IOA44A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Justice <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\">Jim O’Callaghan</a> is to seek Cabinet approval for the publication of the Guardianship of Infants (Amendment) Bill - known as “Valerie’s Law” after Valerie French, a mother of three who was murdered by her husband James Kilroy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KGVBUKHC5VF3JMS6E7ZSMSTWBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms French’s family have campaigned for reforms to guardianship rights in such circumstances since her husband’s conviction, arguing that in practice, those who kill their spouses have a right to know where their children live and to be involved in major decisions about them. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PVOXTWEESRCOZLP2VR5T252UYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The scheme follows a 2023 report, Study on Familicide & Domestic and Family Violence Death Reviews, and an interim report conducted last year relating to the study which included recommendations on guardianship rights for a parent who is in custody, accused of, or serving a sentence for the murder or manslaughter of their child or children’s other parent. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"O3RBROYGHFBPVJH3ZATADZHSZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms French’s family had pointed to a finding in the 2023 report that recommended legislation be amended “to ensure that a parent who is convicted of the murder or manslaughter of the other parent does not retain guardianship of the surviving child or children”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GFTLNL5WUVBXFGFS37GLEXJCD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2024/08/03/my-sister-valerie-french-kilroy-was-our-warrior-princess-change-the-law-to-protect-her-children/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2024/08/03/my-sister-valerie-french-kilroy-was-our-warrior-princess-change-the-law-to-protect-her-children/\">Writing in The Irish Times last year</a>, Ms French’s brother David French argued: “Who would gain and who would lose if it was enacted? In this case, the losers are convicted killers and the winners are traumatised children.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEAQYCLWMVFH7P6ZVKYZVXU6TQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under the legislation, an application will be allowed to be brought before the District Court to remove guardianship rights from such a perpetrator. Mr O’Callaghan has signalled that introducing the legislation is a key priority for him. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SR7F6PNXPFAWHMNTJPIKMV5OZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Life of Valerie French ‘taken in the cruelest, most violent and terrifying way possible’, brother says","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"GYHKLC6UKNF2TLJYL452XJVYJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He will tell Cabinet it is his strong view that issues arising around guardianship of children in a domestic violence or coercive control scenario should not be regarded as a matter of private law to be determined between the families concerned, but should be regarded as a child protection and welfare issue arising in the public law arena. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ETK4RMTGPNDBLMM7QHULEJHRAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The programme for government commits the Coalition to examine such proposals.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OMS3BMKH2BFKVNJ2L7YBIF6CDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under the provisions of the Bill, following the murder or manslaughter of a parent by the other parent of their children, or a serious incapacitation of one parent by the other, an application to the court may be brought removing the perpetrator as guardian with another person being appointed. The parent concerned may also be confirmed as guardian of the child. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6U3ZC4GHWJGKTEOUS5SD4TZWFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The courts will also be able to give directions regarding the custody of the child and rights of access to the child or children. A judge will be able to specify a period under which the removal of guardianship rights is to remain in effect, and impose conditions relating to periodic review by the court or for additional matters as the court considers necessary in the best interests of the child concerned. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}]},"description":{"basic":"Minister for Justice to seek Cabinet approval for Bill known as ‘Valerie’s Law’ this week"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"People convicted of killing their spouse face losing guardianship rights","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI","auth":{"1":"3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff"},"focal_point":{"x":1459,"y":704},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/those-convicted-of-killing-their-spouse-face-losing-guardianship-rights-under-draft-laws/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"OCGL6UPBD5GNPHRPA43M4JARBI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":233,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/480df796-f76c-4a3b-9bf8-237d9edd4e55/versions/1743364356/media/57a5bba1e7121ba0ebdfbab40b205769_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/us-tariffs-ireland-to-bolster-competitiveness-ahead-of-looming-trade-war/","content_elements":[{"_id":"KT2WJTUY4BAWDG37IT4XEWXH2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591088},"content":"Coalition leaders are to discuss moves to bolster <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\" target=\"_blank\">Irish</a> competitiveness amid efforts to shield vulnerable sectors from the fallout of a looming <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states\" target=\"_blank\">US</a>-<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union\" target=\"_blank\">EU</a> trade war.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASSL2L25WNFBHNTVSOMO6CRVZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591091},"content":"With US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\">Donald Trump</a> expected to announce <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs\" target=\"_blank\">tariffs</a> on a swathe of EU exports this Wednesday, Tánaiste <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris\" target=\"_blank\">Simon Harris</a> warned it is “vital” that Ireland “accelerate measures to further increase our competitiveness and strengthen our position as a good location in which to invest and create jobs”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XR43SOUHXBDDXFPITANRDRQYSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591092},"content":"He said Ireland must “control what we can control and influence what we can influence”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UHE2LUFAMRBEJJBLTD7RIQRRVU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591093},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Micheál Martin</a> spoke to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-commission/\" target=\"_blank\">European Commission</a> president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ursula-von-der-leyen/\" target=\"_blank\">Ursula von der Leyen</a> on Sunday, saying he “raised Ireland’s particular focus on the food, drinks and pharma industries”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SFCHHDOWIJAHTA2PL4AGCUXRRU","additional_properties":{"_id":"ZQ346VSFFFBCPDVPQQBR333GTY"},"content":"Eight critical pointers to look out for on Trump’s tariff D-day","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"55FYVHOEQRB2FPFRJYLGEZUN6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591094},"content":"The imposition of tariffs on EU goods is expected to lead to retaliatory action by Brussels which could expose some Irish exporters to significant costs if the US in turn targets their sectors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LADFM5P4UVD4NCKUM6ICGK4LEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591095},"content":"Ireland’s EU Commissioner Michael McGrath said “we are unquestionably at a critical juncture right now”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JYZVVK577VDUPJYDAWWUPMKNFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591096},"content":"“The unknown at this stage is whether the US wants a negotiated settlement or whether it is wedded to the idea of tariffs as a permanent economic measure,” he told The Irish Times.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3TPO2HKMRRBUDJ57CIQETLWHYQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591097},"content":"On Sunday, Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke told RTÉ the Irish economy needs to “sharpen up” on competitiveness issues. Coalition leaders will be briefed by Mr Burke on Monday night on what he described as “quick wins” to improve competitiveness, including legislating for the use of “private wires”, which allow individuals or energy users to run their own cables to transfer electricity. He also flagged reforms to security clearance through Enterprise Ireland and Environmental Protection Agency licensing reform.","type":"text"},{"_id":"74ZPPT5ZKFDM7B4TSUFSKI27YI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591098},"content":"Fine Gael sources also pointed to programme for Government commitments to cut red tape for firms as a priority, as is a promised cut in the VAT rate for hospitality. However, expansive pandemic-style supports for businesses are not on the table as of now.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JKUWQL5AKZFRDG3UL5BLVBLXYI","additional_properties":{"_id":"ETHYQFT26BD73KDGEVY6EQY2KQ"},"content":"US tariffs will curb exports and slow growth, ESRI warns","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ML6VVM7RWFDETD5CZ2W7TTCPZQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591099},"content":"Minister for Trade Mr Harris is expected to ramp up engagement with his European counterparts before the imposition of tariffs, and will brief Cabinet on the latest tariff developments on Tuesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VYSW7FW35ZEUDB6LKHZON2DZBA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591100},"content":"He wrote to EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič in recent days flagging concerns about the spirits and dairy sectors being caught up in a trade war if Brussels goes ahead with planned tariffs on US products in these sectors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWCRTCTO25GMVDYNWXWA4IK6NI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591101},"content":"The Irish Whiskey Association, in a submission on tariffs to the European Commission, warned tariffs on American spirits could lead to their members being targeted and outlining their concern such EU tariffs “would be ineffective and disproportionate”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CDOVXT4HA5AKDODZL33MVQYOPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591102},"content":"In the coming week, Ireland is likely to seek allies in Europe to argue against the EU including pharmaceutical goods on its list of retaliatory tariffs. Mr Harris will have calls with his Dutch, Danish and Swedish counterparts – all three countries have significant pharma industries.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6U24YINKJVAQPBW7PM3CBUWJOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591103},"content":"Following his call with Dr von der Leyen, Mr Martin posted on X that the pair had agreed the EU should be “measured and considered in any response, and focused on our own competitiveness and an ambitious trade agenda”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OX2LYHKLCJAXPBR3X7TLMVQQIM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591104},"content":"Dr von der Leyen outlined her expectations for developments on tariffs this week, Mr Martin said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C5KJ5G6BHFBFVIFTODGVH2BIBI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591105},"content":"Government sources here are cautioning that Brussels’ response should not hurt Europe more than the US.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MBXYBPSTGVFBBLMNEAJGCBF6NU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591106},"content":"Officials in the Department of Trade have warned that pharmaceutical tariffs could remain in place for an extended period which would impact on supply chains. If the EU imposed tariffs, Government sources said, it risks driving up the cost base of the sector within the bloc.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}]},"description":{"basic":"US president Donald Trump expected to announce tariffs on a swathe of EU exports in April"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"US tariffs: Ireland to bolster competitiveness ahead of looming trade war","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6VCACUF3RZE6NN5N6UU63EUW5Y","auth":{"1":"ae00a15721573199b2d7b666acab3e50d8bd31c3df368f95b8d29c1d9dc5a92e"},"focal_point":{"x":1190,"y":1015},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6VCACUF3RZE6NN5N6UU63EUW5Y.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/us-tariffs-ireland-to-bolster-competitiveness-ahead-of-looming-trade-war/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"HI3XOCB2XNAOXAJ45OEIU6NGNM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":224,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/118b867b-b6c1-47b0-8255-bab130247b3f/versions/1743263594/media/588d8b804e8757fe99e86c5ba9744ea7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/us-demands-for-its-airlines-to-land-at-dublin-threatened-aer-lingus-and-west-of-ireland-lynch-told-nixon/","content_elements":[{"_id":"J2IJ4PXQMNCN7ETN7CO2PXIZZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736809},"content":"A bitter row between Dublin and Washington over United States demands for landing rights at Dublin Airport in the early 1970s threatened <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/aer-lingus/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/aer-lingus/\">Aer Lingus</a> and the Irish government’s plans to develop the west of Ireland, then taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\">Jack Lynch</a> told US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/richard-nixon/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/richard-nixon/\">Richard Nixon</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6ERY6TRKE5EVZBLZKLMBO3XLHQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736810},"content":"Washington had complained from the mid-1960s about the Irish government’s decision to force US airlines to land passengers at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shannon-airport/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shannon-airport/\">Shannon Airport</a>, not Dublin as the airlines wanted as they preferred flying to capital cities.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZWUVEH3GJGYFK7CHOKFZGY7JY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736811},"content":"In a frank letter to Mr Nixon in November 1971, Mr Lynch told the US president he needed to be forthright by stressing the government was “deeply concerned” about the landing rights row.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ROA3N3W7JJHERPFK2Q7IPTB5Z4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736812},"content":"The Irish government allowed the two big US airlines, Pan American and TWA, to land and, just as importantly, to refuel at Shannon, but they were not allowed land at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\">Dublin Airport</a>. Instead, Dublin-bound passengers were flown onwards by Aer Lingus.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JLAUUJMBGNBSXA7HY6DGWXOCZA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736813},"content":"In late July 1971, the US government said it would revoke Aer Lingus’s landing rights at JFK Airport in New York from August 1972 unless an agreement was reached with the government that dealt with the US complaints.","type":"text"},{"_id":"77DE4OQLONALJI6SLFXMNS6ZS4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736814},"content":"“In our view it is not contestable that the issues at stake are comparably greater for this country than for the United States,” Mr Lynch said, even though he accepted the US authorities believed the existing Irish/US aviation deal was unbalanced.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MQAMIZ6BFBDBNNMVHKT4Q325KU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The facts seem to be quite clear. For the United States, whatever the merits of its case may be, Dublin rights are a peripheral matter. The granting or refusal of such rights is a matter of minuscule importance to the United States economy,” he wrote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OCQBEM7GJFAWFDQAGLP4XWEXDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Documents on Irish Foreign Policy (Vol 14) 1969-73: The North, above all else, required the Department of Foreign Affairs to up its game","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"YZE4R3AW4BEV5JNQCI5LDTX5HU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The letter is included in the latest volume of documents on Irish foreign policy covering the years 1969 to 1973, which will be launched in Dublin on Monday by Tánaiste <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\">Simon Harris</a> at the Department of Foreign Affairs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4RQLSF7GQFGDHGUYMSRJH2ZR64","additional_properties":{},"content":"In his letter, Mr Lynch said the consequences of ending the Shannon rule were “of much greater importance” to the Irish government and for Aer Lingus, which was successfully operating on the JFK route, than they were for the United States.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U6WL6UZA6FDY5BK7JGHXB22C2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736817},"content":"“The revenue implications for our small national airline are very considerable indeed. They have developed their existing traffic though great expense and effort. Their whole financial position would be imperilled,” he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"J5DJZKBEAVFIZPSXVOBBAU7DDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736818},"content":"The impact on the government’s plans to develop the west of Ireland if Shannon lost services would be even more significant, Mr Lynch warned, stating such plans and the future of Shannon Airport “would be placed at hazard”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V466DE4LH5EG3D7XHTIJM5P2N4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736819},"content":"“Indeed, the underdeveloped state of the west made it one of the main sources of the flow of Irish emigrants to your great country. The Shannon area is now our greatest growth centre outside of Dublin,” Mr Lynch said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYOK2S3AAFCN3FQWVNNFXIDSNM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736820},"content":"The granting of Dublin landing rights for US airlines would have a significant impact “on the morale of all connected with the development of Shannon and the west”, he said, judging by the reaction from workers, politicians and the press.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z2WMSVJX3VBP5PZOL27BHXWXP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736821},"content":"The US threat to end Aer Lingus’ landing rights at JFK “has naturally caused the widest disquiet”, with “a great many people feeling that their jobs and their future are now in greatest jeopardy”, Mr Lynch told Mr Nixon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5QOJKEB7R5BORFTRHR2CKSAOZ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736822},"content":"However, the Lynch letter failed to stem the US demand, with Irish-American relations worsening in spring 1972 to the worst they had been since the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/second-world-war/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/second-world-war/\">second World War</a> when Washington was annoyed with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eamon-de-valera/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eamon-de-valera/\">Éamon de Valera</a>’s neutrality policy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SKNKPCYPJ5FWJNK27BDOLWK5LE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736823},"content":"In 1973, Lynch lost power and was replaced by Fine Gael’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liam-cosgrave/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liam-cosgrave/\">Liam Cosgrave</a>, who allowed US airlines the right to land at Dublin. Pan American showed little interest in Dublin, while TWA flew the route only up to 1979.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hennessy"}},"name":"Mark Hennessy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Washington put pressure on government in early 1970s to stop forcing passenger planes from US to land at Shannon"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T14:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"US airlines’ demand to be allowed to land at Dublin threatened Aer Lingus and west of Ireland, Lynch told Nixon","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ","auth":{"1":"45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"History"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/us-demands-for-its-airlines-to-land-at-dublin-threatened-aer-lingus-and-west-of-ireland-lynch-told-nixon/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"NDNS37SCYBDLJOHESDOEGVMVNU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":268,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/71e579dd-19bf-42c2-a421-ba2f48154ea3/versions/1743331853/media/4a1829025e6c962a680d2750cab68e63_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/dup-to-put-marker-down-at-executive-against-irish-language-signs-at-belfasts-grand-central-station/","content_elements":[{"_id":"S5F32F4DRZEXLFK4D4YT7XSGNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532149},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/democratic-party/\" target=\"_blank\">DUP</a> Ministers intend to “put a marker down” in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/stormont-assembly/\" target=\"_blank\">Executive</a> in opposition to a decision to install Irish language signs at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/belfast/\" target=\"_blank\">Belfast’s</a> Grand Central Station, party leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/gavin-robinson/\" target=\"_blank\">Gavin Robinson</a> has warned.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BBK2M7HIO5EOHJPGOWXJTBD53I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532150},"content":"Mr Robinson questioned whether the estimated £145,000 (€172,453) cost of the signage represented good use of public money.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X5FYLGMIKBH5VPA2CYSKBBS4ZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532151},"content":"The DUP leader said the party’s Ministers in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/stormont-assembly/\" target=\"_blank\">Stormont Executive</a> have written to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins questioning how last week’s decision was made.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V6H3JVORIFFGTG2W45PNTL7CUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532152},"content":"The move comes as the Department for Infrastructure confirmed that the decision to install the signage was taken directly by Ms Kimmins, and not by Translink, the publicly funded transport operator that owns the £340 million station.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GJUVUDMCYJFVXJEYP7MN2OW2QI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532153},"content":"Under Stormont rules, ministerial decisions that are deemed significant or controversial should be considered collectively by the powersharing Coalition, rather than by just an individual minister.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6YTX46KFRCIVN6UCVG6SL5WYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532154},"content":"In a weekend email to party supporters, Mr Robinson said the installation of the signage was “clearly a controversial matter”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T5BFDAYZRFDKZFQS3R373VVNGA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532155},"content":"However, within the Executive it is ultimately the responsibility of Sinn Féin First Minister <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michelle-oneill/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle O’Neill</a> and DUP Deputy First Minister <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/emma-little-pengelly/\" target=\"_blank\">Emma Little-Pengelly</a> to jointly decide what issues are significant or controversial and should be subject to a wider vote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WO2MC6NK5RF6LHUAXHE2MXJPIQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532156},"content":"Ms Kimmins’ announcement on the signage has drawn criticism from several unionists.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UYP3X3QWWVF7BAY2NMPUGCOV2I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532157},"content":"TUV MLA Timothy Gaston is seeking support from other Assembly members for a petition calling for a cross-community vote at the Executive on the decision.","type":"text"},{"_id":"44L4MXOPLJEOTFE7H7XBLFB6BY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532158},"content":"Meanwhile, loyalist activist Jamie Bryson from the Unionist Voice Policy Studies (UVPS) group is attempting to secure a judicial review in the High Court in Belfast against the Department for Infrastructure, stating the decision was taken “without Executive approval”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIJBVPC33RA73L7IV3UITL6QEQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532159},"content":"In his email to party supporters, seen by the PA news agency, Mr Robinson did not specify how DUP Ministers would seek to challenge the decision at the Executive.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DHCIUFAONDXTNGDNAOPMYTHEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532160},"content":"“This money could have been used to support struggling businesses in Sandy Row (adjacent to the station), which have been devastated by the station’s impact, or to fix the potholes that plague our roads,” wrote Mr Robinson.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2VRTIVPX65FSPC3R6P3D66FNEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532161},"content":"“Our team on the Executive have written to the DfI Minister expressing their opposition to this decision and questioning the process for this decision being made. Once again, we see Sinn Féin’s approach to equality laid bare, and that their partisan pet projects take priority over the wider public good.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AOA5RNPQ3RBDVAXJ552TD7HVFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532162},"content":"“This is clearly a controversial matter and our Ministers will use their position at the Executive table to not only get to the bottom of how the decision was made but put a marker down that public money cannot be used to further Sinn Féin’s pet projects.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VY3RJTVCOVG6LMJFJ2XGLRNUXM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532163},"content":"“I believe we need to put taxpayers first. Ensuring public services are delivered fairly and with efficiency. That means cutting waste and prioritising essential services.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L4UXOUXIOFHVTHCDG75G7PVQXQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532164},"content":"“In a mandatory Coalition, we rely on other parties to adopt the same approach. Yet this week, Sinn Féin demonstrated it’s focused on narrow politics rather than acting fairly and wisely.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YNGANWBW6NG43OGANVSWKZ3HDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532165},"content":"Grand Central Station has been billed as the largest integrated transport hub on the island of Ireland, with services including trains between Belfast and Dublin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AG4L7IO6Z5FXBLKRJQ2AIDPCNI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532166},"content":"When the station opened last year disappointment was expressed by the Irish language community that the signage did not incorporate Irish.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYSKOWPKHZCYJJ4N4YQHSHUWGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532167},"content":"Speaking during the week, Ms Kimmins said the addition of Irish on signs in the station would be a “hugely positive development”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WCUXC2FYFRAA7KKSM7WFXEE4VY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532168},"content":"Responding to claims that the decision was not subject to sufficient equality assessments, Ms Kimmins insisted an equality screening exercise was conducted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2F57JAV7CFDXHNRG4OSVHLHMRU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532169},"content":"“This is something that reflects the thriving Irish language community in Belfast and right across our island,” she added.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2W7BMC2X7JBQ3DMSW24ADOEW6M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532170},"content":"“I think that is really important that we have taken that step forward.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PFIPWALZRNCF7HC7MLTQZECFPQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532171},"content":"In response to a weekend query on the decision-making process, a Department for Infrastructure spokesperson confirmed that the decision was taken by Ms Kimmins, and not Translink. – PA","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"DUP leader Gavin Robinson says installation of signage is ‘clearly a controversial matter’"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T10:45:44.902Z","headlines":{"basic":"DUP to put ‘marker down’ at Executive against Irish language signs at Belfast’s Grand Central Station","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7SHJX7JM3QHAN4WMTMGLRMOYZM","auth":{"1":"3818dcc20da4a2d0bb6e59de96ae4ac385071297f19adc3eec0993bf809465e7"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7SHJX7JM3QHAN4WMTMGLRMOYZM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/dup-to-put-marker-down-at-executive-against-irish-language-signs-at-belfasts-grand-central-station/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"VTY57DJZDJDIJN6372FVSZGUAY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":471,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/049b5c7e-d4bc-432e-9099-8041bbcba9f8/versions/1743249373/media/042a01dc637c4531cc61597b6a3a5288_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/wednesday-could-see-the-start-of-a-us-eu-trade-war-how-would-ireland-be-affected/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175018},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states/\">US</a> president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\">Donald Trump</a> has declared next Wednesday “liberation day” when he will unleash the full onslaught of his latest tariffs, the taxes he plans to impose on imports of goods from other countries.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5LP7VK5PVNDRNGA2J7SVT5W6KU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175019},"content":"During an <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/03/27/donald-trump-threatens-measures-targeting-irish-pharma-sector-as-he-announces-25-tariffs-on-car-imports/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/03/27/donald-trump-threatens-measures-targeting-irish-pharma-sector-as-he-announces-25-tariffs-on-car-imports/\">Oval Office announcement on Thursday</a>, unveiling plans to set tariffs of 25 per cent on car imports, Trump pledged: “We’re going to take back just some of the money that has been taken from us.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFQR3MT2XRGCBPUV4CWCJ65LVQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175020},"content":"Warming to the theme, he continued: “They’ve taken so much out of our country, friend and foe, and frankly friend has been often times much worse than foe.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"J3FFADVIJBDYHHMHC2BFLVQ6AU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175021},"content":"Then he turned his focus, again, to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\">Ireland</a>. He warned there would be tariffs too on pharmaceuticals “to bring our pharmaceutical industry back”, singling out Ireland, home to manufacturing facilities of many US pharmaceutical companies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XUK6UNOSV5CYTL2BJM62K3FALE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175022},"content":"Trump said the US did not make medicines, adding: “It’s in other countries – largely made in China, a lot of it made in Ireland. Ireland was very smart. We love Ireland. But we are going to have that.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"7OHBSRRKW5DGND3ZRWERX4H4R4","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘Ireland has our pharma companies,’ says Trump. But what will he do about it?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"AP363EG7UJCHNIXICOGAV3RTPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175023},"content":"April 2nd is being viewed with dread in Government Buildings and business boardrooms across the State. It could mark the beginning of a full-scale trade war between the European Union and the United States.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEAZOXX5Z5EHBI42QR3SAEGGOY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175025},"content":"“Potentially it’s a date that will go down in Irish economic history – it’s that serious,” said Dan O’Brien, chief economist with the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/institute-of-international-and-european-affairs-iiea/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/institute-of-international-and-european-affairs-iiea/\">Institute of International and European Affairs</a> (IIEA).","type":"text"},{"_id":"HYMZZMRZVFFJ5IQM4Y6BGTHNXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175026},"content":"O’Brien has said April 2nd is “shaping up to be worst day in Irish economic history” since the government’s emergency guarantee to save the banking sector in September 2008 and the international bailout in December 2010.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P2LOIEUUOBB33JUR74T3VR4ASM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175027},"content":"“Immediate effects of tariffs will not be dramatic but longer run impact on Ireland’s economic model could well be more profound than 2008/10,” he <a href=\"https://x.com/danobrien20/status/1905249572894441512?s=46\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://x.com/danobrien20/status/1905249572894441512?s=46\">said in a post on social media network X</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QA3RLOGKZGOXNOM25LPURMSCA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175028},"content":"While acknowledging that “nobody knows what’s coming”, O’Brien told The Irish Times that Wednesday’s tariffs could be historic due to how integrated Ireland is with the United States.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5RXIH2G22NFO3N2YI4UUL32SE4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175029},"content":"“If they go heavily on the EU in general, or if they target Ireland in particular specifically, we’re in an awful lot of trouble,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7CG2BLKIQ5BE5APRWA6EX7G6HQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175030},"content":"He said it could mean the State becoming less prosperous, with more outward migration. The transatlantic relationship, which included “policy certainty” along with “trade and investment openness”, might never going back to how it was – at least in the foreseeable future, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T4GEWHWGNRCDDIFGYCNG5WP6RU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175031},"content":"Trump’s specific targeting of the Irish pharma sector is “deeply concerning, particularly as it is dominated by American companies”, said O’Brien.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BAS7DJDUIRE5LCJ2JGHSTBUFIQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175032},"content":"“If the US government were to use all measures at its disposal – carrots and sticks – to lure these companies home, together Ireland’s biggest manufacturing sector by far, would contract significantly. In a worst-case scenario the economy-wide implications for jobs, tax revenues and exports would be highly negative.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZCEKYRAH6FDVXKLGBJGG2XUO4Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175033},"content":"The Government has not been shy itself in setting out the stark impact on the State of a trade war between the EU and US. Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe has outlined what might happen “if the worst-case scenario was to unfold”: over the medium term – a four-to-five-year period – “it’s very possible that between 50,000 and 80,000 jobs that would have been created or kept within this economy won’t be”, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43NXTUIBNZADBO3KQH63YX2W5I","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"XEVOONWEXBAIBAVDZV7DZIZBWQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175035},"content":"Taoiseach Micheál Martin told the Dáil a trade war would have a “very serious impact on GDP and GNI – in other words, the income of the State. “It could potentially have a serious impact on employment and it’s the most serious challenge facing this Government,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IVNQDNWXZZENFISUD6ACE4VF74","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175037},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"73YCVAXIYRBZ7A6PJCP3TRBLMQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175038},"content":"A study has been carried out by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) on the possible impact of tariffs of varying levels. The think tank calculated that if the US were to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all EU exports and the EU responded with reciprocal tariffs of its own, Irish gross domestic product (GDP) would be 3.7 per cent lower over the next five to seven years compared with a scenario with no tariffs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IHWLC2N665HRTMZPJUXA2LD5WI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175040},"content":"Based on last year’s GDP figures, that equates to €18.4 billion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2PANYYZLLZE6PIYSHIJ6JSMJNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175041},"content":"A source involved in the multinational sector said: “There’s a lot of uncertainty out there” among companies that will be closely watching next week’s announcement. Multinationals are said to be positive about investment in Ireland, with the well-educated, English-speaking workforce seen as attractive, particularly to US companies seeking to access the large EU market.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UK26KSR2NBFIJE3QJ4QTQISNC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175043},"content":"The source said there was no sense of imminent job losses but a trade war could lead to companies changing their future plans for investment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P6D3RZVYCZE33BPAPXQNYE2EJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175044},"content":"What can the Government do to counter the risk posed by this?","type":"text"},{"_id":"KHQ5GQ7VRVFUJO6DICK72RMWYA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175045},"content":"“The key ask [from companies] is, broadly, infrastructure and housing delivery. Control the controllables. That is what Ireland needs to do,” said the multinational sector source.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GSMUG75NXBCZ5J3B7WZ5VNBMFY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175046},"content":"“Controlling the controllables” is a phrase Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke has used as he set out how he plans to accelerate the delivery of the Government’s promised Competitiveness Action Plan as part of the response to the threatened tariffs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BH6TMSSBRBEEPCQQP5BJL33NPU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175047},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"O7RID37NXRGFFNEQXG2XKSLDAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175048},"content":"Burke pushed back against any suggestion that next week’s announcement in the US could mark the beginning of the end for the Republic’s decades-long economic model of attracting foreign direct investment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SPRKX4P34VDBZPDKBZNYDA5F3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175049},"content":"“We have a very agile research, development and innovation landscape here in Ireland”, and a “strong pipeline in seeing our multinationals invest,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SMHOUXUONVFYNN4M37GXR7F5RI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175050},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"OXERNWENMBCTNPGOIRHIYT2POQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175051},"content":"On the threat of tariffs on pharmaceuticals, Burke pointed out that this would make medicines more expensive for US consumers and also lead to a reduction in the amount of revenue the pharma companies put back into the US.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DXKMFX245FG4RLOWLLLFJVMBMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"How crucial are US pharma firms to Ireland? And what happens if Trump entices them home?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ZQ5BIC2GBJFFROK7O7UXNOSGBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175052},"content":"“I think it is a no-win for the US economy,” he told The Irish Times.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JNUJL5NZKBAS7CVDNP5WIZ3W3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175053},"content":"The Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA), which represents inventors of prescription medicines and vaccines including multinationals, said the companies were hoping any tariffs would not last long.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RFNRH2IN3RGQDH5LQWJFSQJMTE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175054},"content":"IPHA chief executive Oliver O’Connor said the industry “has a significant footprint in Ireland, employing 50,000 highly skilled people”, and that it considered their Irish workforce to be “a key asset.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIWD6DUVN5CJRBGFWGPNVC4CIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175055},"content":"He said last year there were €99.9 billion worth of pharmaceutical exports from Ireland, more than half of which went to countries other than the US.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7OLNSWBCJBRTPU7YQ7A25TBEI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175056},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YZX7EWFZVVG2PP72TG7YAUNBDA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175057},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZPDCMQLYBRFPPPUAKRWJHHHVDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175058},"content":"The EU will be taking the lead in responding to any tariffs announced by Trump next week. It is expected to take time to analyse the economic impact of any new tariffs before a decision is made on a response.","type":"text"},{"_id":"II4RJCMHORDGJKYVXEQFDUDK6M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175059},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"LMGTHHTJ2BENBCXWS2FTEVB7WQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175060},"content":"Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Harris later said: “We here in Ireland and in the European Union think tariffs are a bad thing.” They are bad for consumers on both sides of the Atlantic, for economies and for investment, he said","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ULLBWSREJATLC7DDJIDMMGGEI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175062},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZVJEMZTZZBO3OF6KNGIDZIQ6M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175063},"content":"Mr Harris said it was “highly likely” there will be a “period of economic uncertainty and turbulence” and “it’s essential that that period is kept as short as possible”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2YFLHW2AQZDXJCUCAYITLXSWMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175064},"content":"“What I hope happens after April 2nd is that very quickly the US agrees to get around the table with the European Union ... to work our way forward here because all disagreements need to end in agreement.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LUZXCRGTW5BIRIZFCF5OHKDIII","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175065},"content":"It is a sentiment not necessarily shared by Donald Trump.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"}]},"description":{"basic":"With Washington expected to unveil tariffs on the EU and Trump setting his sights on Irish pharma, April 2nd is being viewed with dread in boardrooms and Government Buildings"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Explainer: How would Ireland be affected in a US-EU trade war","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY","auth":{"1":"97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/wednesday-could-see-the-start-of-a-us-eu-trade-war-how-would-ireland-be-affected/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"MZ532ISISFFZTNU3QMEYM4DH3M","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/ireland/2025/03/29/frances-black-open-to-the-conversation-about-becoming-a-presidential-candidate/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"BJNRL5PKJRETFAMGHYX2PFNSFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Independent senator <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/frances-black\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/frances-black\">Frances Black</a> has said she is “open to the conversation” about becoming a candidate in this year’s presidential election. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VY4QM6ZSKFCKTIW5SLTUFIMB2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 64-year-old singer said while she was not “actively seeking this”, some Opposition parties have approached her and asked was she “up for the conversation”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YBZVJQ4QBVGDHMZQP3AAJ77CNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking on <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rte/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rte/\">RTÉ</a>’s Late Late Show on Friday, Ms Black said: “There’s been no decisions made. Just people have come to me and said ‘are you open to the conversation’, and I said ‘I am open to the conversation’.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WHWJYIFYBRFMPASYX3O5RUAIHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But there probably will be other people [who] will be actively seeking this as well. I’m not actively seeking it but I am open to the conversation. Of course, I’m open to all conversations but no, I haven’t made any decisions whatsoever and that is the truth.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AUY3KK5XYRHYXL6CLEFTUDLTNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Black was joined on the show alongside her daughter Aoife Scott, who said she would make “an unbelievable president”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IRT75AIWT5AOJDTBE3XGDLXRQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Leo Varadkar confirms he will feature in RTÉ travel show and rules out presidential bid","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ATEBOROY6RCDTOC2OMNU2EXWCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“She is the most caring, most loving, most Irish person that you could possibly be,” Ms Scott said. “She just cares about Ireland so much and I think that would be unbelievable.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XE6ZVPRPOBAZFIUFPCOM2INB5A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Separately, Ms Black said she is due to meet with the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\">Simon Harris</a> next week to discuss the Occupied Territories Bill. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASCC2MSEHRBZHMZJNGXCJIQPHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said she would be asking him not to water down the bill, that it was “too important” and should be passed before this side of the summer. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7UDQ647SZFB25CFFKC7VLDWTSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Black, who became a senator in 2016, said she visited <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/palestine/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/palestine/\">Palestine</a> in 2018 and what she saw was “heartbreaking”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"26QKXVOFUVCFVPIYPEMW6JQQ5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I got into Gaza and I saw the deprivation, I saw how people lived. I saw there was no electricity, their water was polluted ... I remember a young mother saying to me ‘why have the international community abandoned us’ and that really broke my heart,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BUKT7GKYPNF7VM5BJUCRAWNZ7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Black added that she also visited the West Bank and witnessed the apartheid regime. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5L3EUWHBJVBFRCWKWU4GHFGMTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This Bill is important to the Palestinian people, it’s a tiny little step for the Israeli Government to have consequences to what they’re doing.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Sarah Burns"}},"name":"Sarah Burns"}]},"description":{"basic":"The singer said some Opposition parties have approached her "},"display_date":"2025-03-29T11:43:46.898Z","headlines":{"basic":"Frances Black ‘open to the conversation’ about becoming a presidential candidate","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"T2FFM6PWQUNX5RRCL6YRZPN7KM","auth":{"1":"a66705f0d8fe8f0f1f27ccf3aa0f9ec91b0701d5c18848a1cd4d084f5a131a9a"},"focal_point":{"x":2557,"y":1497},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/T2FFM6PWQUNX5RRCL6YRZPN7KM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Ireland"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/ireland/2025/03/29/frances-black-open-to-the-conversation-about-becoming-a-presidential-candidate/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/ireland","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ireland"}}}},{"_id":"J4CYWF22ZNCUBKYZ7PL3P63IGQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":236,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/bce77e16-375c-4dc8-95c8-721b369c2854/versions/1743199992/media/4eab9bfcca296f9ba89bea22b26ca04e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/leo-varadkar-confirms-he-will-feature-in-rte-travel-show-and-rules-out-presidential-bid/","content_elements":[{"_id":"E56ULHZLFVCENBDEOBGLSFQRJA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259030},"content":"Former taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/leo-varadkar/\" target=\"_blank\">Leo Varadkar</a> has revealed he will feature in a travel-related television programme due to air on <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rte/\" target=\"_blank\">RTÉ</a> later this year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T5EQOHKVZJDZTJTHS44BEGTVHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259031},"content":"The former <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael/\" target=\"_blank\">Fine Gael</a> leader also confirmed he <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/24/leo-varadkar-takes-job-with-us-based-public-relations-firm/\" target=\"_self\">begins a new advisory role</a> with United States-based public relations firm Penta on April 10th – one year and two days after he <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2024/04/09/varadkar-resigns-as-taoiseach-with-no-regrets-as-harris-loyalists-eye-promotion/\" target=\"_self\">stepped down as taoiseach</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZJWAXPHV4FHEJPCKI4TYYGY2XI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259032},"content":"The former Dublin West TD, who held several ministerial portfolios over 17 years, said he was also excited about starting a new lecturing position at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/harvard-university/\" target=\"_blank\">Harvard University</a> “after Easter”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDLDCOTWHREP7OSZWAYEKJNALA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259033},"content":"Speaking to The Irish Times at a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/road-safety/\" target=\"_blank\">road safety</a> event in Galway on Friday, Mr Varadkar said he had been working on “a few different things” since he departed politics in April 2024.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SOHBFSBRHFHU3DHMVYENBNEKCY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259034},"content":"His predecessor, taoiseach Enda Kenny, fronted a travel series about Irish railways for RTÉ after he left office, and Mr Varadkar joked his TV programme was “a bit like that but not like it at all”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X2QRSP4ONBGD7IMXPJFX4RNNEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259035},"content":"“You will hear about in due course. It’s a travel-related TV programme. It’s only one episode, not multiple. I enjoyed doing it. I enjoyed working with a crew,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SPGJBWVIC5ATZD6QJT4PRCJQKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259036},"content":"Mr Varadkar was photographed working with a film crew in a remote part of South Africa last month.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W3Z5OO3UKZGB5FSE6W3IMTAY2E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259037},"content":"He said RTÉ told him the show would air “in April or September but it’s looking more like September”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DSO6KWJIRVH2DGEYRBYF3SB2VU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259038},"content":"Mr Varadkar also spoke for the first time publicly about his new position at Washington-based PR firm Penta, whose clients include Google, Microsoft, and JP Morgan. The Penta post was “not full-time – it’s a certain number of days per year that I’ll be working”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VGDKEEBL2RGRDBPFAWKGUWTGUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259039},"content":"“It doesn’t start until April 10th because there’s a one-year waiting period after you’ve given up ministerial office before you can do anything for a company involved in public affairs,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HURQU2QGRFF2RHZLAGPHZHEMQQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"7YMEHEIDRVHT7FJMHUNOCAA6QM"},"content":"Leo Varadkar recalls grandfather’s death as he welcomes new law aimed at keeping disqualified drivers off roads","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"I3CUGFLIWFBMLFPNGBKNAAQPU4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259040},"content":"Mr Varadkar said he would dispense “strategic advice” to Penta clients, “on how to manage all the interesting things that are now happening in the world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CETUFRCGNZEGRMC7HEY36J3R7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259041},"content":"“It could be tariffs, it could be geopolitics, legislation or really anything that is happening. Given my experience and background perhaps sometimes I can present an insight into that that might be useful or valuable,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R5CGPEO5DNHGTANGA2VXTYEVTA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259042},"content":"Mr Varadkar follows in the footsteps of former New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern by taking a teaching position at Harvard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GA5YP4IOUVDKRFF4J2MDJCIU5E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259043},"content":"His course begins after Easter, and the former minister for health will teach, “leadership, Irish studies, politics and some things around human rights and equality and access to healthcare”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GSQZU44V3ZBD3IFO63FFY474YI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259044},"content":"Separately, since he left the Dáil he said was engaged to do “fireside chats”, which he said had replaced the after-dinner speaker circuit for former world leaders.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G3326DEONBBYZA2QIJBIMGWD2M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259045},"content":"“I did one for CNBC in India and Bank of America in Dubai. There’s only a few of them a year but it’s interesting,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J4HYTXZOIJBTTLFFCJVR3LSXV4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259046},"content":"Mr Varadkar ruled out running for president in November and declined to say which Fine Gael figure he supported to be the party’s candidate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WRPB4EEQUBG4XIPUQ6UCEI7CQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259047},"content":"Asked about the ongoing row over Dáil speaking rights, Mr Varadkar said he wasn’t following the issue closely.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2T65DFXF6JCSFBZUGZ337H5L4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259048},"content":"“I was at a concert last night and one of my friends asked what I thought of it all and it became very apparent to me that he was more informed about what happened than I was. I probably follow international news a bit more now.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DKCJ2Q7VFGWTCEANRWYRGVMCU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259049},"content":"“I think there is always a risk in a small country like Ireland that we forget that we are just a small ship on a big ocean. The focus of our politicians needs to be what’s happening in the world and less on who gets eight minutes of speaking time on a Tuesday or Thursday – but that’s not my fight any more,” Mr Varadkar said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Dara Bradley"}]},"description":{"basic":"Former Fine Gael leader also confirms he begins advisory role with US-based PR firm Penta on April 10th, a year and two days after he stepped down as taoiseach"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:05:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Leo Varadkar confirms he will feature in RTÉ travel show and rules out presidential bid","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JDKB3KPPABDBQEL7CQ2RKVU2FE","auth":{"1":"953e4dca5c4e813c3177f0091fe42bf7dcd7349e824bbab5ba0f3d4d06f25f37"},"focal_point":{"x":1845,"y":1268},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JDKB3KPPABDBQEL7CQ2RKVU2FE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/leo-varadkar-confirms-he-will-feature-in-rte-travel-show-and-rules-out-presidential-bid/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"2HZY4X4XMJHA5CNJAPNK2NXKJU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":314,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/18b9a876-1fe0-43e3-8f3c-52935ee731c9/versions/1743167477/media/634b5a80778403878782d4f0254eee91_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/opinion/2025/03/29/speaking-rights-for-michael-lowry-would-not-be-on-my-list-of-issues-critical-to-our-democracy/","content_elements":[{"_id":"PJZUZM7FXZAQ7CJIR3YSSLLVD4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882192},"content":"The idea that the changes to the Dáil’s standing orders pushed through by the Ceann Comhairle and the Government despite the rowdy objections of the Opposition constitutes a mortal blow to Irish democracy is simply preposterous.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WSB4LUQWNJECXE2PCWQPGOSLUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882193},"content":"But ensuring speaking rights for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\">Michael Lowry</a> and his pals, while curtailing the time for TDs to question the Taoiseach, is certainly a political stroke – that is, it’s an example of the Government using its power to squeeze out benefits for itself because it can.","type":"text"},{"_id":"64UUQJ4AJJDURBIICFVYU55S54","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169911099},"content":"‘Shame, shame, shame’: Opposition leaders accuse Coalition of giving ‘two fingers’ to democracy in row over speaking rights","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"N55VUG4SO5FNFNWUNHLJ3KMGDE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882194},"content":"Inventing a Dáil platform for Lowry and the lads is part of the agreement between the Independents and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael\" target=\"_self\">Fine Gael</a>/<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fianna-fail\" target=\"_self\">Fianna Fáil</a> that enabled the Government to be formed in January. That agreement is clearly not limited to the published programme for government, prompting the obvious question: what else is in it?","type":"text"},{"_id":"X6VCUKYG3REDDCI6JVENV3TAVE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882195},"content":"Nothing to see here, the Government says. The programme for government is the programme for government. Yeah, right. You can be sure that every one of the independent TDs has a list of local projects that they intend to see delivered in the course of the next five years and for which they will then claim credit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EYOAU52LNNBS7PYHE2VI6NY2NY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882196},"content":"Do they have a written agreement from <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin\" target=\"_self\">Micheál Martin</a>? Maybe not. Do they have a clear expectation based on agreements made in January that their demands will be met? You bet they do. That’s one of the principal reasons why they have backbenchers as well as ministers, giving the Government the numbers it needs for a secure Dáil majority. That’s what this is all about: the protection of a secure majority.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DEBMMR7AWBB2JERL45THK7EDYQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882197},"content":"So is it a stroke that should prompt questions about the extent and nature of the unpublished bits of the agreements between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil and the Independents? Absolutely.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5JKYLRAXNFCNEZA34C3I5QJRA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882198},"content":"But is it – as Opposition leaders have been wailing for weeks now – a threat to our parliamentary democracy? Ah, lads, come off it. To be honest, repeatedly trying to shout down and shut down the national parliament is probably more of a threat.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KIGZCR6HTZBJDKLNCOIAWCF5U4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882199},"content":"That this storm in a teacup should transfix Irish politics in a week when the gathering storm clouds of trade wars and shooting wars are ever more unavoidable is further evidence of the ability of our political system to preoccupy itself with trivia.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OXJXFDN3SNCEJM35XXDYJJ7KEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882200},"content":"For if you’re looking for things that actually have the capacity to undermine our parliamentary democracy, then I have a long list for you.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UB5GL5RY2ZASPM2ZX6AHJ37X44","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882201},"content":"Democracies – and their architecture of checks and balances, designed to ensure that power is not absolute – can crumble in many ways. Look around the world for plenty of examples of elected strongmen undoing the restraints on their power. The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united%E2%80%93states\" target=\"_self\">United States</a>, long heralded as the world’s greatest democracy, is a laboratory experiment testing the strength of its independent institutions in the face of a potentially authoritarian regime. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/viktor-orban/\" target=\"_self\">Viktor Orban</a> is the cuckoo in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union/\" target=\"_self\">European Union</a>’s nest, squashing dissent and assaulting minority rights. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/recep-tayyip-erdogan/\" target=\"_self\">Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> continues his slow strangulation of Turkish democracy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5HCRJMEFO5AW7EKRJGQL7FKVIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169911108},"subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"X4I3X2GPGFACFPWDHQBXTTBEDI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882202},"content":"In the EU’s mature democracies, the real danger comes from a loss of faith among electorates that their governments can meet their needs and are answerable to their concerns. The rise of norm-defying populists in European countries is directly related to a sense among many voters that their political elites are remote, cut off from the concerns of ordinary voters. In many cases, this is related to their concerns about immigration. You don’t have to like that to recognise it’s true.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CJG5HBGBHJAN5OVEHRGSECHD5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882203},"content":"So if I were compiling a list of things that would safeguard the pillars of Irish democracy – the century-long primacy of our elected parliament to which the government is answerable, the principle of executive power being constrained by the courts and scrutinised by a free media, the constitutional guarantees of our individual liberties – well, I wouldn’t start with speaking rights for Michael Lowry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HSNQQRURBFF4XJZ6B3XYRQKEW4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882204},"content":"I’d start by doing anything necessary – anything – to fix the housing crisis. Because if you feel that you’ll never get out of your parents’ box room, that you’ll never own a home of your own in which you can raise a family and live a life, or that you’ll have to leave the country to do all these things – then you’re a lot less likely to feel you have a stake in society. And you’ll care less what happens to that community. Or you’ll be willing to listen to some snake oil salesman about how getting rid of the all the foreigners would guarantee you a home of your own.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4YQM6C35RHG7NDVZENJEAGEX4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882205},"content":"And I’d think about climate action. Not just the transition away from fossil fuels – but also the preparations for changes to weather and climate that are already unavoidable. About the reinforcing of the electricity grid and the flood control measures that people will need to protect their homes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OFQMGWHUBZE4RLYOKO2HUAQKUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882206},"content":"And I’d face up to the economic challenges that are coming down the tracks like an express train – the potential loss of multinational jobs, investment and corporation tax revenues that now presents a clear and present danger to the country and the public finances.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VKFW2W6CIBFMZCLHKVEVDDMGCM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882207},"content":"The re-election of a stable, centrist government, bucking the European and international trend, owes perhaps rather more to the corporation tax bonanza that the country has enjoyed for a decade than the political skills of its leaders. Things might look a lot less stable after a few years of unavoidable austerity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJSGO5SHWJGHRE2AWCIN7WPXR4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169911115},"content":"So if I was thinking about the stability of our democracy, I’d be very, very concerned about our economy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"24AIIFY6FBHRLPIECTEB666FUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743158882208},"content":"And when all that is sorted out there’ll be plenty of time for a leisurely look at the Dáil standing orders.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Row is yet more evidence of politicians’ preoccupation with trivia as storm clouds gather abroad and housing crisis worsens at home"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:43Z","headlines":{"basic":"Speaking rights for Michael Lowry would not be on my list of issues critical to our democracy","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"4SUUFM7JAJAT7GROVDWZEYRBIQ","auth":{"1":"6b9de53e67630ea4f7579da45e4dff4d4ca3e1b29265948a424b108077ebda7b"},"focal_point":{"x":752,"y":505},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/4SUUFM7JAJAT7GROVDWZEYRBIQ.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"BTLB7GCN5O3NDUWNMZ5HWAZ54M","type":"image"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Opinion"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/opinion/2025/03/29/speaking-rights-for-michael-lowry-would-not-be-on-my-list-of-issues-critical-to-our-democracy/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/opinion","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Opinion"}}}},{"_id":"XBW7NJHAQJEGVC2353GHVDLE7A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":649,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6a67387c-592b-463c-851a-11a4c43221fc/versions/1743194736/media/0118ea7ad7f76f63ca560f9c4bbf0301_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/miriam-lord-with-verona-under-fire-tds-suddenly-realise-they-are-gravely-concerned-about-misogyny-after-all/","content_elements":[{"_id":"NBBNSVMKHFDP3GM56JKHBFB3PM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Misogyny. Misogyny is what was mentioned earlier,” Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\">Verona Murphy</a> bellowed into the Opposition din at the height of those rowdy scenes in the Dáil on Tuesday afternoon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6PUCAXKEBBHIVB3NYNT7KWVCUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Verona wasn’t levelling the charge herself. She was saying this is what she heard from government TDs condemning the Opposition’s treatment of her when the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a> speaking rights hustle was being forced through the Dáil.","type":"text"},{"_id":"72PIZ3VQO5HULFPTON4HVLL2RM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ah, lads. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RTPZM4EKMVAS7CHHCUXJC523XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of course, they have form.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWFKFXGVZ5EPBBA4CNICPYEHDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"They thundered angrily about their meek Taoiseach not even attempting a mention of Nikita Hand while <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\">Donald Trump</a> lauded <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-mcgregor/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-mcgregor/\">Conor McGregor</a> in front of him in the Oval Office. Some of them, it was rumoured, threatened to decamp to the independent benches over the marked lack of women in senior and junior ministerial jobs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2AAYI64Q3ZB57K4CMQYMPLDDOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"And their passionate contributions during the Dáil debate marking International Women’s Day would still be fresh in our memories had the men with such keen noses for misogyny made any.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7QKXKMZB2ZD67EGLEKV3MDRXKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s funny really, the way the thing that suddenly gets them all concerned about the treatment of woman and has them dropping the “m” word with abandon is something that directly concerns themselves and their political parties and the stability of the Government of which they are members. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZCUE7MP2AREA5D2H4CJ4L5SRRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Comments have been made about the unpleasantness of the protests yesterday – I even heard some claims of misogyny, which I found extremely cynical, from one of the most male-dominated governments on the planet. It strikes that the Ceann Comhairle is a woman who knows her own mind,” <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/people-before-profit-solidarity-pbps/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/people-before-profit-solidarity-pbps/\">People Before Profit-Solidarity</a>’s Ruth Coppinger said on Wednesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EV5CME5WJG2FEXUU2TEQLLPWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She’s right. What Verona got this week was an equal opportunities monstering from all members of the Opposition. Previous cinn comhairle – all men – have also been subjected to ballyragged and barracked by angry TDs, but while government deputies roundly condemned what happened to them the Opposition was never accused of sexism against them. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JG3ZHLNAI5B5ZBNLCWQ4FHOGTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ceann comhairle John O’Donoghue had a nightmare on his first working day in the job back in 2007. The then Opposition goaded him into meltdown over, surprise, surprise, the deal struck by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/bertie-ahern/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/bertie-ahern/\">Bertie Ahern</a> and <a href=\"\" rel=\"\" title=\"\">Fianna Fáil</a> with certain independents to get into government after the general election. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4K3Y764QRGMBANTK4GMIYQSNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"And <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/enda-kenny/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/enda-kenny/\">Enda Kenny</a>, then <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael\">Fine Gael</a> leader, made the politician known as The Bull O’Donoghue blow his top with references to the deal done by then taoiseach Ahern with Jackie Healy-Rae (father of Michael and Danny) in return for him supporting his government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"34MY2RH4WFHOPLZBR2AEEFCRLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"How they laughed and roared and yahooed as the Kerry-based ceann comhairle tried to control opposition TDs, who completely ignored him. “Well, I’m sure you’d want to know what Healy-Rae got yourself,” Enda needled.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5JHZRP6P2NG5PDIUCTRYIOX5RI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The episode has parallels to current events. Along with Healy-Rae, the two other independent politicians in the limelight for cutting deals worth “hundreds of millions of euro” were Finian McGrath (incidentally now seen as mentor of one of the Lowry crew, Barry Heneghan) and … trumpet fanfare … Michael Lowry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TQKWAIKDUVB3RL5BTYHG2RD2VM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The opposition continued roaring as Enda told the chair he had no power in Kerry and “you’ve no power up here”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DH72BW423ZHYZO3L62LT4DQSHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Bull O’Donoghue was apoplectic. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DGHIR6ZZFZBGZIUVQN7SKT62AQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Quiet now. You’re only new in the job,” the leader of the opposition taunted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NJDHA7N2XJFDBI3CABANFSK2NU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The ceann comhairle leapt to his feet. “You won’t say ‘Quiet’ to me, sir!” he snapped, red-faced and raging.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZH4EUTX27RB7DN5J2JCDWUFAPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"And it went gloriously downhill from there. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNZNCXX57NC5JMBVV3OPUIGADA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Disgraceful display of misandry against a defenceless Kerryman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVAJJNKD75CBHEWPSYF2AWX6YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"She’s only a lady standing up in her place of work","type":"header"},{"_id":"JM3XWACOAJBZJF7Y3SM2KJ3D4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"And speaking of Kerrymen and misogyny, such a charge could never be levelled against <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-healy-rae/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-healy-rae/\">Michael Healy-Rae</a>, who was deeply, deeply upset and concerned over the disgraceful and noisy disrespect shown to Verona Murphy on Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MU7JLD3SQRAP5NGV7NEMPAYYJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"And her a laydee.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V537D5K4CFB4LDSLQP3KIYITSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Just remember, who are they shouting and roaring at? At a lady, who was standing up in her place of work …You had a lady in her place of work, standing up. The rules say that when the Ceann Comhairle is standing, everybody else is to sit down but they all literally stood up and they were shouting and roaring at a woman at her place of work. I think it’s wrong” he told Virgin Media’s Kieran Cuddihy on Wednesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EMGWKYXSTZGB3F2GM3GFLQXKJU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael held his hands up: he hasn’t always been the best behaved. When the last ceann comhairle would tell him to resume his seat, he might be a bit “slightly hesitant”, but he would have to sit down. “I would do what I was told.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AYGUVNN6BVCFNPOMKOIKC55EGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Refusing to sit down and causing chaos? “You can’t do that!”","type":"text"},{"_id":"R2JV3DOW4FG7FJU4RSOCPCJMYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"We must have been dreaming about all those times the Healy-Rae brothers caused ructions by roaring and shouting and refusing to sit down. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DN2F7L2IKVBNNOXU44SQ5UXJEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"As for shouting at a lady? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6SFAMTFHBVBS3A5ML6WSSXY3S4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael must have forgotten in November 2020 when the then leas-cheann comhairle Catherine Connolly was in the chair and she was forced to suspend the house because he refused her many requests for him to resume his seat. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UZ3XMESGNJH3PNQAFAV7IM3SNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"And the time his brother Danny refused to sit down in April 2023 when Verona Murphy was standing-in for the ceann comhairle. Danny didn’t just stay on his feet, he sang at her as well.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6XZPKDSZ5ZA2VGRULEPKLGSQWA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A few lines from the song Skibbereen. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPRUPKSRGZCCFIUOWG7DSO3ONI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Verona mentioned her stand-in days when she was elected in December, having been asked to consider running for the job by Michael Lowry. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"66QJAZVVTVCR7IF43DUKU7LMJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Generally, my time in the Chair passed without incident, with the exception of the day a certain Kerry TD decided to serenade me with a poor rendition of a Cork song – figure that. At least his phone was turned off. I believe this experience has prepared me for the position.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CZU7GHTEYBFPDO5LM7K7AOVQ7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"What would Gertie say?","type":"header"},{"_id":"BGEQH32N4BHRPFFZPPNYIZJS6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eoin-hayes/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eoin-hayes/\">Eoin Hayes</a>, the lesser spotted deputy for Dublin Bay South, has a special family connection with the Dáil stretching back 75 years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JOJ2TUC75BBEPIUSWNOOEU7SFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The first-time TD, who was suspended from the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\">Social Democrats</a> parliamentary party after giving incorrect information about shares he held in a software company that supplies the Israeli military, remains in political limbo for the foreseeable future.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5PI7VVH4ENB6XKCFQTBJR5UHWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The urbane business consultant was the toast of the Soc Dems after his stunning win in November’s general election when he ousted Sinn Féin’s Chris Andrews to take the fourth and final seat in the constituency. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HAVI2GJRJBC4HCXH4MB43VLHP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, when it emerged the following month that he didn’t dispose of his shares in Palantir Technologies until after he secured his seat on Dublin City Council last June, he colleagues moved swiftly to distance themselves from their new TD before the first meeting of the 34th Dáil.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IEUAC33N5NFQPEWJB5T5DFE7VM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Eoin sits as an independent on the edge of the chamber beside Kerry’s Danny Healy-Rae – also on his own because his brother and soldier-in-arms, Michael, occupies one of the ministerial seats on the Government benches across the floor.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VLFJ3ZXVNBVXE4Q53MGQPFQY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Deputy Hayes has yet to speak in the Dáil. He says he intends to do so shortly. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"456PCLF7DZDTRJMLF6MWJIJX6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The question is, what would Eoin’s Granny Gertie make of all this? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6WZIJGOV6BCDTCYJUSN75ZFPIQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gertie O’Reilly sounds like a remarkable woman for her time. In the 1940s, she was the first woman newspaper reporter in Mayo and Sligo. She broke into the trade because her father was a reporter with the Western People and she was determined to follow in his footsteps. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GE7A7TLFSBFVNB2O75OG2WWS7I","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"53WEW4BAQFAVHN4GHLE63QAYF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In 1949, she landed a job in Dublin as a general reporter with the Irish Press and in 1950 was admitted to the hallowed ranks of reporters on the Oireachtas Press Gallery, the first woman to get a Dáil press card. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CT6QLUX3EFGEDDQ3IMVZX22WNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"How would she report on her grandson’s travails in Leinster House? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UD3JTVWACNEDDIJ6LO2KN26GBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m not too sure what she would write about that, but I do know that she would have been very proud of me getting elected to Dáil Éireann,” says Eoin, who is clearly very proud of his grandmother. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCCIH36O4BB7ZGFT4KUFO7A2VY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WWWRILCSBFHJJDRN7WPW56EWR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not that Gertie – or Gertrude as she is on her gallery pass – would have much to write about. Eoin has yet to make his maiden speech in the House, but in the meantime he is getting to grips with constituency work.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDWQVJ7ZR5CX3DGFHKV2LKQLRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He is reluctant to speak about his situation with the Social Democrats, where he remains in purgatory. The party recently indicated that there is “no timeline” for a decision on his readmission and he remains suspended indefinitely. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZIOAS3O5BVDP3JK5ON4EQ3IV5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"His grandmother got her press gallery pass 75 years ago this month and met her pharmacist husband later that year. She left her job and moved to rural Sligo where they set up a pharmacy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q6K7IM4Q75CU3FNPXJRLPIRQ2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If you knew her, she was a formidable woman in what was very much a man’s world. I have a lot of fond memories of her,” Eoin says. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KRUJ3CWHDZBK3EROX2UNP6IOBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gertie MacHale (née O’Reilly) was writing her memoirs when she died in 2014 at the age of 94.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OWWURTE2EJBKNJPU7TDODVFK3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"You can’t talk politics here, lads","type":"header"},{"_id":"5KCCNS6HT5A45EZR6CZXQ376TI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Journalists working in Leinster House know it is forbidden to interview TDs or Senators on the premises or do impromptu “doorstep” type interviews. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"C7GPW7ZDT5DW3P4YMM5BKWTFMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"But since the new Dáil returned for business in January, that rule has morphed into a very unsettling and rather worrying situation where reporters are being told they cannot talk politics with Oireachtas members in the public areas of Leinster House. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LPBXYB4XIVH5JBT5C4WSZWO37M","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s quite bizarre.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KZHNP7BTUNEZXOB3FLTNVGELDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"We know of at least three examples in recent weeks when journalists, in normal conversation with a TD, have been approached by members of the security staff and told they are not allowed to discuss political matters with an elected member.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B722QOXXLZCM5HY7HL6B54DNSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"One reporter was sitting on one of the blue banquettes at the bottom of the main staircase, talking to a new TD who had just introduced himself, when an usher approached and asked if they were talking about politics. And if so, to desist.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RIEPKLH2TBDZXJVWWRKYPJL2W4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Not to talk at all?” the astonished reporter asked.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NU2744UA4NCRVIYGDBWKUARLSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“No.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q3W4INCT2RF33P5PG3BKBBSLVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Then there was the journalist chatting to the Tánaiste one night in the same area a couple of weeks later. An usher butted into their conversation and said they couldn’t talk about politics there.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7QQIKUDX35AOJE5HFL2G5PYAGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"They couldn’t talk all right – they couldn’t because their jaws were stuck to the carpet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YY5UWEG6WVEYRCPBJTX2XOPTNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"And again, only this week, we hear of another colleague interrupted by an usher while speaking to a TD in that area, which is at a busy intersection of corridors where people often congregate. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2XLBVUIKRJFZND4AVQ5MHT4NBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"This time, the reporter in question politely said they could talk to whoever they liked about whatever they liked. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCTYM67GVVD2TMZRIFCHZTL3NI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Someone in authority in Leinster House needs a crash course on the meaning of “the corridors of power” and how they work.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Miriam Lord"}},"name":"Miriam Lord"}]},"description":{"basic":"Government deputies develop a nose for the ‘m’ word in the nick of time as Ceann Comhairle is barracked by Opposition"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Miriam Lord: With Verona under fire, TDs suddenly realise they are gravely concerned about misogyny after all","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BQRTHGOKGZEMRBGGLSEX4OSIV4","auth":{"1":"3727d6abbbaf6af6b71b6ecee24f7054c390eab4219465d30232704b0a018b75"},"focal_point":{"x":743,"y":489},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BQRTHGOKGZEMRBGGLSEX4OSIV4.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"LJSNYTBVUNFSDLFHU5HXD7L7ZI","type":"image"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/miriam-lord-with-verona-under-fire-tds-suddenly-realise-they-are-gravely-concerned-about-misogyny-after-all/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"LKS4CB2425G6PIGAIPHBH577E4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":226,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/8f646096-5774-4194-a0ef-409702e4ec75/versions/1743188419/media/505f0c42bc62f0cdc3fc6b5f27f6a0fb_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/in-their-own-words-councillors-respond-to-conor-mcgregors-bid-for-presidential-nomination/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IIPXOCCKWNEPDJSMHDTDJRBFQM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159847},"content":"Following his visit to the White House on St Patrick’s Day, mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-mcgregor/\">Conor McGregor</a> repeated that he intends to run in this year’s Irish Presidential election.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T7EME4LA3NGXFB3XYTM2MXWL5Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159848},"content":"To secure a nomination will require the backing of 20 members of the Oireachtas or four local authorities.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I4S5XNX4GJFPLCJULL52LNUR54","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159849},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/29/councillors-brace-for-chaotic-conor-mcgregor-bid-to-seek-a-presidential-nomination-from-local-authorities/\" target=\"_self\">Irish Times surveyed the country’s 949 local councillors to gauge their attitude towards Mr McGregor’s candidacy</a> and if they are concerned about coming under outside pressure.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5AU4CEFTIBCMBADGL5J3T7CKOQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159850},"content":"None of the 187 who replied said they would vote to nominate the 36-year-old.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YN2Q2XQDWFHZFOQYUTIX52KKUM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159851},"content":"This is a selection of the responses received:","type":"text"},{"_id":"LUXPTZZZTVDU3E2WHX7IFWB4BI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159852},"content":"<i>Councillors are elected to serve the interests of their constituents here in Ireland, not those of Elon Musk or anyone else. Should a member of a local authority vote in favour of McGregor’s nomination, it would be purely indicative of their character, their worldview, and their poor judgment. – </i><b>Luke Corkery (Fine Gael), Fingal County Council</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"YSGKDFNDT5E5BBN5K5L6M65Q7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159853},"content":"<i>Mr McGregor is undoubtedly a divisive figure. And with the world becoming more polarised every day, what we need in a president is someone who can soften division, not sharpen it. Unfortunately, Mr McGregor’s natural instinct seems to be to split people into corners – be they red or blue, or in his case, the nearest boxing ring or UFC octagon. That might work for pay-per-view, but it won’t do for the presidency of Ireland. – </i><b>Rita McInerney (Fianna Fáil), Clare County Council</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"N363MTNGSVGBFNWSDTFNL6ARGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159854},"content":"<i>No such pressure would ever influence me to even consider voting for that horrid man. – </i><b>Stiofán Conaty (Sinn Féin), Cavan County Council</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"KGN5DJUQFRE4HI4DRSOGWIZVN4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159855},"content":"<i>Expecting getting online pressure/abuse but that has already been on the rise. – </i><b>Pierce Dargan (Fine Gael), Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"XQUXZPEWBFBGXFRKLZED4POJFQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159856},"content":"<i>We are not exactly wilting violets. Should anybody approach me in that fashion, I would tell to go and **** themselves. – </i><b>Seamus Butler (Fine Gael), Longford County Council</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"DN6WLVD3WFBABBLILJJWRS7CNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159857},"content":"<i>I feel we are living in a time where extreme views have become mainstream, particularly online, and having Conor McGregor as president would only add fuel to those views. In my opinion he is very unsuitable for this office and his views would not represent all the citizens of our country.</i>","type":"text"},{"_id":"UDJFY6OZQZGO5CO54MXQZVIV44","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159858},"content":"<i>Whether people agree or disagree with his beliefs (and I disagree strongly with most of them), he is undeniably far too quick to voice personal opinion to be considered for a position which is supposed to be non-political and where far more decorum than Conor McGregor has ever displayed is required. – </i><b>John O’Donoghue (Kerry Independent Alliance), Kerry County Council</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"WCUJOTR2E5GJNBTK4RG7NG6NZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159859},"content":"<i>He is badly informed as to his status, credibility, suitability, eligibility or selectability for representative office. His unsuitability should be clearly stated by public representatives to give assurances to the public that nominees should be people who “mirror” decency, citizenship-honour, who “inspire and promote” Irishness and Irish-values and not “maverick”, anti-establishment “pop-ups” who favour “adversarial limelight” over balanced and integrated community harmonisation. – </i><b>Seamie Moore (Independent), Kildare County Council</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"KERM3ZQKJRAJ3C5KXSCP2IAHIE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159860},"content":"<i>He appears to be following president Trump’s game plan of attacking those who don’t/won’t support him by challenging them personally and their character. – </i><b>David Fitzgerald (Fine Gael), Kilkenny County Council</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"YQXS56V4TBGRZFSSA6JCFINYKM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159861},"content":"<i>Many people have contacted me urging me not to nominate him. I have had absolutely no one yet asking me to nominate him. – </i><b>Colm O’Rourke (Fine Gael), Dublin City Council</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQ4FO2BVN5HVHKQB44NEUMVSVU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191159862},"content":"<i>In terms of any concerns about potential demands from McGregor for a council nomination, as the fella says, pressure is for tyres. – </i><b>Paul Mulville (Social Democrats), Fingal County Council</b>","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Mixed martial arts fighter wants run in this year’s election to succeed Michael D Higgins"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘I would not even consider voting for that horrid man’: Councillors respond to Conor McGregor’s bid for presidential nomination","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JJHGRDXRQRGUTHB7HVUF3KVWS4","auth":{"1":"e8c4236e3a81953b94d2826db7459b0006c5aae89639fa30bad5cf4548c68952"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JJHGRDXRQRGUTHB7HVUF3KVWS4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/in-their-own-words-councillors-respond-to-conor-mcgregors-bid-for-presidential-nomination/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"DQLSGOEE6FBOXD64ZSNMYLBIYE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":659,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/550bac29-db6c-47d3-827d-27f86e33062b/versions/1743165335/media/d6526888eb12c2b4b9e105363b0dfd91_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/opinion/2025/03/29/no-limits-why-the-united-states-could-be-on-the-verge-of-a-constitutional-crisis/","content_elements":[{"_id":"6JRQTPOD3ZCKBDKQLKYKZYRHVY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349526},"content":"When <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\">Donald Trump</a> assumed office as 47th president of the United States he committed himself under oath to “faithfully execute” the office and to “preserve, protect and defend the constitution of the United States”. As he did so, Trump must have been aware that those who had framed the constitution in 1787 believed that one of its primary purposes was to regulate and control the executive power of the president.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EXEJAUFAEBA3BM33WWQ6AVHA5Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349527},"content":"That he was conscious of the existence of such restraints is suggested by the actions he has taken to circumvent what the framers introduced. Thus, during his first term as president, he selected judges for appointment to the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-supreme-court\">supreme court</a> who, he expected, would comply with his wishes. More particularly, both when in and out of office, Trump and his supporters have invested much effort and money at district and state levels to help secure the election as members in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/house-of-representatives\">House of Representatives</a> and as senators in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-senate\">US Senate</a> of people who are known to be ardent, uncritical supporters. Because he has taken such measures, Trump could, in good conscience, take the presidential oath confident that he would enjoy support from the judicial and legislative branches of government that the drafters of the constitution had intended would act as counterweights to the executive power of the president.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FWBBBZYMAZAGRAFM4M5LKAG4H4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349528},"content":"The constitution was drafted by what is known as the Federal Convention, which met in Philadelphia from May to September 1787 at the instigation of several of the prominent leaders in the recently fought American revolutionary war. These leaders took pride in the independence that Britain had been forced to concede in 1781 to 13 of its colonies in mainland North America that had combined to resist crown authority.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S3TU3EA7W5ELRAQGRDZXGSPVLQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349529},"content":"While Democrats sleep, Donald Trump is tearing up America’s rule book","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"YFW772YRQVARJIF3U6JTZH7KZY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349530},"content":"However, notwithstanding their victory over Britain, these revolutionary leaders remained convinced that the Articles of Confederation that, since 1781, had bound what had become 13 independent states into a loosely federated United States, were not proving sufficient either to control dissent within and between the 13 states or to resist attack from without. These concerns led them to contemplate the institution of an executive officer at the national level, to be known as president.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QYEOQWQ63VAYFBVDEVZSBAZF4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349531},"content":"Several of the 39 members who participated in the convention had reservations about this proposal, principally because they had difficulty in reconciling the establishment of an executive authority at the national level with the republican and federal principles that had justified the revolution for which they had fought. These doubtful ones, guided both by what they knew of the fate of the republic in ancient Rome and by their own recent experience with British rule, believed that the creation of a presidency was akin to restoring monarchy with its associated “bribery and influence”, which they believed certain to have a corrupting influence over republican virtue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2CTJLADQRNHUPNDLJDBH376UXI","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"7BETXMSMARGBDGTMYTQVB5YZMA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349533},"content":"To assuage such concerns, the convention recommended the establishment, also at the national level, of an elected Congress (the Senate and the House of Representatives) that would have exclusive power to enact laws and approve the raising of revenue, thus placing limitations on presidential power. The members of the convention also recommended the creation of a supreme court that would adjudicate on “all cases, in law and equity, arising under this constitution”. This combination of proposals required that the existing 13 states should surrender to the national government some of the powers and autonomy they had previously enjoyed. To compensate for such loss, the convention recommended that the existing states would, in proportion to their wealth and population, exercise a controlling influence over federal elections both for the presidency and for the two houses of Congress. Furthermore, they recommended that elections for the House of Representatives, for the Senate and for the offices of president and vice-president would each be conducted from a different electoral base and for different periods of time in the expectation that this would ensure that each elected body would be independent of the others.","type":"text"},{"_id":"565TAXNHF5G77MFNXNBVF5WFFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349534},"content":"Following prolonged debate, the members of the convention reached a consensus concerning a draft constitution, which they expected would provide “regular and efficient government” that would not arouse “a natural jealousy” concerning the possible “abuse” of power, and that would treat all states that belonged to the federation equitably. They believed their proposal would provide an effective, republican and federal form of government, and they proceeded confidently to put the draft constitution before the electorate of the 13 states to be ratified by them. They hoped thus to receive a popular endorsement of the draft document after which it could be represented as a constitution that had emanated from “we the people of the United States”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RWHF3T7MLBHXJF4R4WCH4DWOKE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349535},"content":"The ensuing effort to secure ratification from the electorate in all 13 states gave rise to contentious debate that persisted for two years. The outcome was that the constitution drafted by the convention did not become operative until 1789, and then only after it had been augmented by 10 amendments that collectively became known as the Bill of Rights. These amendments again reflected the misgiving that was widespread throughout the US that executive power and republican principles were incompatible. To counteract such concern the Bill of Rights was devoted principally to protecting individual liberties against arbitrary authority.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4QJDDC5Z3NC6JJMEO6XQNA4TSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349536},"type":"image"},{"_id":"B6FCP6E7PBCH5MXIRV2YCKWEEI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349537},"content":"The constitution that came into force in 1789 did grant “executive power” to the president of the United States in specified areas, and especially so in foreign relations. However, it provided also for a separation of the powers enjoyed by the legislative, the executive and the judicial branches of government. This came to mean in practice that the powers identified specifically with the office of president, other than that “to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment”, were subject to the agreement of either the House of Representatives or the Senate. The separation of powers came to mean also that any Act or decision of the president became subject to scrutiny by the supreme court, and that the president, like all other elected officials, might “be removed from office on impeachment for, and conviction of, treason, bribery or other high crimes and misdemeanours”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G2TRIOGVBNF23FJ2QAJIUCIZ2I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349538},"content":"Several amendments, other than the first 10 of 1789, have since been added to the constitution to meet changing circumstances. However, the framework of government, with its complex checks and balances, that was adopted by the “people” in 1789 has remained constant.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V5JW6C2FWTK6STA6KQHH765IJ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349539},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WLX4KVGOJRH2DOEAGS3ZBZDD6M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349540},"content":"Because of this constancy I believe that a constitutional crisis is about to beset the United States neither because the present administration has infringed upon any constitutional constraints on the power of the president, nor because the current president has plans to amend the constitution, as did Vladimir Putin in Russia. The crisis that I believe to be imminent is that President Trump and his closest advisers have taken steps to circumvent the constraints upon the executive authority of president imposed by the constitution.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSDSXH565JFMBG55SQLRX5IBUM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349541},"content":"Moreover the president leaves no doubt that he wishes to enjoy independent authority to deal with internal and external issues similar to that exercised by his counterparts in Russia and China, and that he will brook no opposition to what he seems to consider a God-given responsibility to “Make America great again”. What precisely Trump means by this mantra remains undefined, but it seems from his actions that he and his closest advisers wish to restore the US to the condition in which it was during the 1920s, when those he likes to describe as “wealth-makers” were untrammelled by regulations relating to banking and stock exchange services, to manufacturing activity and to the general conduct of business.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AKBFR2LP4FAV3DP5RF5Y37RTAY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349542},"content":"US chief justice criticises Trump’s threat to impeach judges","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"KXL7RSTVCFE4JPHFGU7RIVQ2WM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349543},"content":"What Trump and his closest advisers seem to wish for is a return to an era when the federal government showed little concern for the health, wellbeing and education of the country’s citizenship, and when people were permitted to be oblivious to the dangers associated with heedless exploitation of the country’s and the world’s natural resources.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MR3J65KBPFAETK2YKUL22FLKVQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349544},"content":"One can hardly wish to deny rulers the wish to pursue utopian dreams, but it is expected in democratic countries that such ambitions be held in check by constitutional constraints. Our one consolation is that the US constitution remains in place, even if its oppositional dimensions have become eerily silent when President Trump and his closest associates invoke “national emergency” and spurn rational debate as they proceed with measures that threaten the lives, security and employment of US citizens.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F3PBODVAXBFUHHE3ABM2CNPLB4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349545},"content":"Even more alarming is the fact that the very survival of humanity is being placed in jeopardy because <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/climate%20change\">climate change</a> has been declared a hoax by the leader of the world’s largest consumer of fossil fuels per head of population.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VEPCS6EGM5FWXKQEBPJBQMZBKM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349546},"content":"Notwithstanding such concerns, I remain optimistic that the existential crisis that seems certain to engulf the world if Trump’s ambitions are not held in check can be averted. My optimism is based first in my belief that members of the supreme and federal courts, even those closely vetted by Trump, will remain true to their obligation to uphold the constitution whenever issues are referred to them for adjudication. In doing so they would be following the example of the late justice Antonin Scalia, who always insisted upon adhering to the literal interpretation of the constitution.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VVOD4WNCNRD7FMDHC2QZ5QGPTE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349547},"content":"My second reason for optimism is that I expect the autocratic mode in which President Trump has been conducting business will alienate at least a small number of the current Republican members of Congress and persuade them to vote with their Democratic colleagues to curb or withhold money from some of Trump’s more extravagant schemes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSVCWX7CCJHQTD3WHGA335PWDM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349548},"type":"image"},{"_id":"MSG2IDZHQVGGBAFSVN4UMGCNFE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349549},"content":"And my third reason for optimism is that I believe a sufficient number of the US electorate who voted for Trump in the 2024 presidential election will have become so alarmed by their president’s recent dictatorial style and by his unvarnished intention to cancel every advantage given to the general population in the New Deal of the 1930s and 1940s that they will turn the midterm elections of 2026 into a referendum on his rule. By November 2026 all seats in the House of Representatives and a third of those in the Senate will fall vacant. If, in the ensuing elections, the Republican Party loses control of either or both houses, this turnabout will produce a restoration of the constitutional constraints on the power of the president.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4H536RP3XVGQBCVUHTK6TZDD7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349550},"content":"Should the outcome prove otherwise, we may give heed to the words of Benjamin Franklin who, when he recommended the adoption of the draft constitution at the close of the Federal Convention of 1787, predicted it would become “a blessing to the people if well administered” but that it could “only end in despotism, as other forms have done before it, when the people shall become so corrupted as to need despotic government being incapable of any other”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OAQXCDN7XBD2DGJLE5C74HNWEQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743169349551},"content":"<i>Nicholas Canny is professor emeritus of history at the University of Galway</i>","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Nicholas Canny"}]},"description":{"basic":"Donald Trump and his closest advisers have taken steps to circumvent the constraints upon the executive authority of president in pursuit of vaguely defined goals. Can they be stopped?"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"No limits? Why the United States could be on the verge of a constitutional crisis","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SGX7SSBGBCCFEETKAYTXHQUVF4","auth":{"1":"24bfc523a47f27573741e43ccd8fa5d7dd4c329000f398902ad6ed680792bbff"},"focal_point":{"x":2240,"y":2326},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SGX7SSBGBCCFEETKAYTXHQUVF4.jpg"}},"subtype":"feature","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Opinion"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/opinion/2025/03/29/no-limits-why-the-united-states-could-be-on-the-verge-of-a-constitutional-crisis/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/opinion","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Opinion"}}}},{"_id":"ZZHECNKPR5F3XIENMHJYLLHTBI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":374,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/911c9818-9401-4e21-a79a-103935ebc1f3/versions/1743176776/media/c3058def0e0400c3b23d53ec77557aa0_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/councillors-brace-for-chaotic-conor-mcgregor-bid-to-seek-a-presidential-nomination-from-local-authorities/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JJW6M4MOSFGNXNV3ERQPTLA32I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239111},"content":"Local councillors are bracing for an onslaught of pressure to support mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-mcgregor/\" target=\"_self\">Conor McGregor</a> as he prepares a run for the Irish presidency.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWN4PAVSONCILPLMN27NG7QV64","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239112},"content":"Many representatives fear being subjected to an unprecedented online campaign led by McGregor’s US supporters, including prominent supporters of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_self\">Donald Trump</a>’s administration and billionaire <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/elon-musk\" target=\"_self\">Elon Musk</a>, to nominate the fighter, a survey carried out by The Irish Times of the country’s local authorities has indicated.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G5TXJ7K7ONG7NCQDLU2ZJUCYC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239114},"content":"At least one council has convened a meeting to discuss how to respond if McGregor seeks its nomination.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OYFJUO4K5VCF7HH5CV3PFJI4LY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239115},"content":"McGregor, who a High Court civil jury last year found raped Dublin woman Nikita Hand in a Dublin hotel in 2018, faces an uphill battle to get on the ballot paper in this year’s election to replace President <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-d-higgins/\" target=\"_self\">Michael D Higgins</a>. He will require the nomination of 20 members of the Oireachtas or four local authorities.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZQB4ST4BBVEMVKAVSQMUTUVLMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘I would not even consider voting for that horrid man’: Councillors respond to Conor McGregor’s bid for presidential nomination","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"IRVY3CONPRG3JDG7NNESSNKG6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Survey of councillors shows no support for Conor McGregor presidential run","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"LYGIVAZZL5GPBFOXEZFTGYZPVY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239116},"content":"The 36-year-old has not publicly stated what route he intends to take, but the local authority process has been the most viable option for outsider presidential candidates in recent elections.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W52YPZSPLFGR5P4SLSY6HMP5AY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239117},"content":"This week, The Irish Times contacted each of the 949 members of the 31 local authorities by email seeking their views on a McGregor candidacy. Of those, 188 responded, about one in five.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IOQGJI357BGUTG2JGILQYW3EXU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239118},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/29/conor-mcgregor-survey-of-councillors-shows-no-support-for-presidential-run/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/29/conor-mcgregor-survey-of-councillors-shows-no-support-for-presidential-run/\">All but one said they would vote no if McGregor sought a nomination</a> from their local authority. Some went even further. “I would vote no and would campaign to ensure that every other member of the local authority voted no. He should forget about it,” independent Dublin city councillor John Lyons said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XENUBT36BZBH5AQKJ4QYUQDKCQ","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"BGQRIKOC35ATZNYJPRJCTOK4RY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239119},"content":"The one exception was Dónal Gilroy, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fianna-fail\" target=\"_self\">Fianna Fáil</a> representative on <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sligo-county-council/\" target=\"_self\">Sligo County Council</a>, who said it was too early to say how he would vote. “Like all candidates I would listen to his arguments and decide then. This would depend on who else was looking for our nomination on the day,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LCRCK5TARGQVCCVRZ6WWQ6YAU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239120},"content":"In their opposition, councillors cited the verdict in last year’s civil rape case, McGregor’s apparent ignorance of the president’s constitutional role and his increasingly far-right and anti-immigration views.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VDX4LAJ6TFC2HHTTISHCZTLQVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239122},"content":"The three largest parties in the State – Fianna Fáil, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael\" target=\"_self\">Fine Gael</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_self\">Sinn Féin</a> – all appear likely to run candidates, which means their councillors will be unlikely to support any independent candidate’s nomination.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G6DFI3VGTZC2RGQI77MH7YH3TQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239123},"content":"This would leave McGregor seeking support from independents or members of smaller parties, particularly those who may share some of views on immigration.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NLI456Q2FZGHNAZUKSGRCWDSF4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239124},"content":"However, councillors from across the political spectrum said they would not support his nomination.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TYOISYMFKRELLDLVLBQRF6M6ZQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239125},"content":"“I am disgusted even at the thought of it and I think most people are,” Ellen Troy, an <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/aontu/\" target=\"_self\">Aontú</a> representative on <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fingal-county-council/\" target=\"_self\">Fingal County Council</a>, said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MIESECVBQFF4VGNWM4QGT5KBIE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239126},"content":"South Dublin county councillor Linda de Courcy, a member of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/independent-ireland/\" target=\"_self\">Independent Ireland</a>, which has called for more restrictions on immigration, said she would not vote for McGregor primarily due to the verdict in last year’s civil rape case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ILPRPSV66RCWNIKN22V4BF7EX4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239127},"content":"Councillors expressed concern that local authority members would come under external pressure, including social media campaigns, to nominate McGregor.","type":"text"},{"_id":"65YTCTPSVFFNBGFUYEZL23AAIM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239128},"content":"Jerome Scanlan, independent councillor in Limerick, is one of several representatives who said they were “extremely concerned” about potential “external interference” promoting McGregor in his bid to secure the nomination.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BBW4L47AFFGWBBQ3BVGRZBZOVU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239129},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/labour-party/\" target=\"_self\">Labour</a> representative John Walsh, who sits on Fingal Council, said there was “genuine concern” about the issue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3XZSUZCIQNBVXBHTSBP2ITD7O4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239130},"content":"“Not least because the vast majority of support that I have seen for Conor McGregor comes from people outside Ireland and is led by right-wing cheerleaders in the Trump administration who have a strong online presence, but are spectacularly ignorant about Ireland,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PN5HLR4XGVFHDAPQG5CYAOHKYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239131},"content":"Others were less concerned, however. “As the fellah says, pressure is for tyres,” Paul Mulville, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_self\">Social Democrats</a> councillor for Fingal, said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JTMN5SKYMND2XHDZIY5AYJROHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239132},"content":"As evidenced by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/21/conor-mcgregor-visits-the-white-house-as-mcdonald-and-martin-brawl-in-the-dail/\" target=\"_self\">McGregor’s recent St Patrick’s Day visit to the White House</a>, he enjoys strong support from the Trump administration. He has already promised to leverage this backing to influence Irish Government policy on immigration.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LONVU2ZD5DAHPOXQC3BWKJMNE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239133},"content":"One of the first prominent people to encourage him to run for the presidency was Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and a key Trump adviser.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S5I6URDL2RBV5GFAUVJUFQYR4A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239134},"content":"Mr Musk regularly boosts far-right parties in other countries. He campaigned for the far-right AfD in the most recent German federal elections and has reportedly promised to provide financial backing to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/nigel-farage/\" target=\"_self\">Nigel Farage</a>’s Reform party in the UK.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PYAROPHWABH6ZHZQ67VL6IYHPU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239135},"content":"Many councillors said that while they expected external interventions regarding Mr McGregor’s nomination, it would have no impact on their vote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y27PLERH2VCZBFEP7KTPKXI2P4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239136},"content":"“I am concerned to an extent, mainly because we have seen a rise in the number of councillors from right-wing groups being elected. However, the vast majority of elected members ... would not bow to any kind of external pressure,” said Labour’s Rupert Heather, who sits on Kildare County Council.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NX5A6JIYOJEMBNYY3TGQZFHNHE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239137},"content":"Many councillors said McGregor had no chance of being nominated, a view shared by most political observers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHGMURH5YFHI5MOUSIRQQWOECY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239138},"content":"However, some expressed fear the outspoken fighter will use his bid for a nomination to promote his political agenda and potentially turn the process into a political circus.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y42GPMUGEFCAFBPLMLDKZHRMVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239139},"content":"On Thursday, Dublin City Council’s protocol committee met to discuss its approach should McGregor seek its backing, independent councillor <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mannix-flynn/\" target=\"_self\">Mannix Flynn</a> said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UIL65AAXC5ARTGOSHEQNGPDTYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239140},"content":"Councillor Flynn said he put forward a proposal, which was accepted, that anyone seeking a nomination will have to abide by a “code of conduct” and show respect for the council and the presidency.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IHLXKPVOWFC6TEOJ36GXQCMLCQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239141},"content":"“I believe what we have here is a recipe for disaster and the undermining of the offices of the local authority and, even more, the office of the President,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QDC6KIOLFRBMZBJW4OFGVV26MQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239142},"content":"Kerry councillor Fionnán Fitzgerald, of Fianna Fáil, said he believed a false narrative would emerge that the “establishment” denied McGregor his right as an Irish citizen to run for the presidency.","type":"text"},{"_id":"42QSU77J5BDYBEUTMUB7Z36IXM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239143},"content":"“I sense that every effort would be made to gather energy around that ... and this would then be used to divide the people of Ireland into two groups: those who support his nomination to run for presidency and those who do not,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZM6NEH54FFDY7AXOXADZNNJ5HQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198239144},"content":"“This to me is the classic stroke of the populist agenda seeking to infiltrate politics worldwide.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Councillors are bracing for a chaotic bid to seek presidential nomination"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Conor McGregor presidential bid: All but one of 188 councillors would not vote for MMA fighter, survey shows","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"3LVERTNWVNHKNMMLUA7JXUUU24","auth":{"1":"9903d0ead6da7f46196731ed27ac0b9cf80b7f98ba2cef3ff6b59a576ece38e7"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/3LVERTNWVNHKNMMLUA7JXUUU24.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/councillors-brace-for-chaotic-conor-mcgregor-bid-to-seek-a-presidential-nomination-from-local-authorities/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"KDSEIWIWHBGNNGWF3OYADCPCXI","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/taoiseach-insists-government-and-dail-are-working-despite-unacceptable-scenes/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IIPXOCCKWNEPDJSMHDTDJRBFQM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> has insisted that the Government and the Dáil are “working” after “unacceptable” scenes erupted in Leinster House last week. Meanwhile, Minister for Transport <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-obrien/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-obrien/\">Darragh O’Brien</a> said he hopes next week’s confidence vote in Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-obrien/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-obrien/\">Verona Murphy</a> in the Dáil will mark an end of the speaking rights row.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2IUF4Y6DRJCGNFLR3SKL34GXBQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government is set to table a motion of confidence in Ms Murphy next week. The move comes after Opposition parties brought forward a motion of no confidence in Ms Murphy over her handling of Dáil proceedings on Tuesday that saw the Government push through changes to Dáil speaking rules. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SMS4RB4AMBD5HELSEMEYEK6I2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The new rules will provide opportunities for Independent TDs that support the Government, like controversial Tipperary North Deputy Michael Lowry, and Coalition party backbenchers more opportunities to pose questions to the Taoiseach and Tánaiste. The Opposition has vehemently opposed the changes to the Dáil’s standing orders. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MJGBKLJAD5CUJFRBMCU4CPIPYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin said on Friday the Dáil was working “but not optimally”, adding that “I think in the interest of all members of the House, people want the Oireachtas to work and want the Oireachtas to work effectively”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JGBR6I5TMJHGZAAVRLXY4LGL6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Taoiseach was speaking at City Hall in Limerick on Friday ahead of the inaugural meeting of the Limerick Mayoral and Government Consultative Forum.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ICZU7CALCZB7XKJKI435WCDXDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He referred to the arguments from the Opposition as “unacceptable”, saying: “No matter what our views are you can’t just, in a co-ordinated way, shut people down in a manner to make sure that they don’t get their voices (heard)”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTEMOMBKNZDI5OJR7EYK5ITCIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said he himself wasn’t allowed the “right to speak” during the Dáil row. “I kept speaking, but there were attempts to drown me down in a very co-ordinated way.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NK5N6W7IRFD5VGF75IZVDP2MG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Separately, Mr O’Brien accused Opposition parties of “absolutely disgraceful” behaviour during last Tuesday’s disruption of Dáil proceedings, and said: “The Ceann Comhairle was treated with such disrespect that I have never actually witnessed before, and I’ve been in the Dáil since 2007.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"3VWUWZT4WBDSVA4RN6YVK5V7TI","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said Ms Murphy “has executed her functions absolutely properly”, and added: “I would hope that Tuesday [the confidence motion vote] will conclude the situation.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIIYLBONURFJ7DNYGQ5UMYGIXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr O’Brien said: “The Ceann Comhairle has our full support, and we will be supporting her in that vote on Tuesday. And the Opposition, I would say, need to get on with the job at hand. Yes, hold the Government to account, absolutely. But the election has happened. They lost.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NHRHR6OBI5DVVFDQV27HP5WQG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There’s a reality that the Government has been put together, that every new Oireachtas comes in, standing orders are altered or reformed or changed.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"V3MVZRLLOBG7XCKICPAWJR2NVU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr O’Brien said that there are Deputies within the Regional Independent Group that do not hold ministerial office but “deserve to be able to speak”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Adam Leahy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Darragh O’Brien says he hopes next week’s confidence vote in Ceann Comhairle will mark end of speaking rights row"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T19:12:24.889Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach insists Government and Dáil are ‘working’ despite ‘unacceptable’ scenes","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"22KGDX4QZBATRAXDRJ4E2TRQQI","auth":{"1":"d5182dceb950545cd27c01c52c0c372542aee829cb846bc792474ebe42be1f1c"},"focal_point":{"x":1696,"y":1142},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/22KGDX4QZBATRAXDRJ4E2TRQQI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/taoiseach-insists-government-and-dail-are-working-despite-unacceptable-scenes/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"2MBUBSUOFRHZFLSV4TR3WAV3IY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":176,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/e4d9c914-2baa-4302-bc6d-d2c8430fe8e7/versions/1743186117/media/087bb5b9ad3a1829c2f90f568707ec55_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/minister-for-defence-admits-ireland-is-a-laggard-in-terms-of-military-spending/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HXUY2ZTVIRA4HCMAT3LCYN4D3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tánaiste and Minister for Defence <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\">Simon Harris</a> has admitted that Ireland is “lagging behind” in terms of defence spending internationally and that such an approach cannot continue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WV46Y6DR2JB47CJEONZVKT6CDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Minister said Ireland will commit to Level of Ambition 3 (LOA3), the highest level of ambition as set out by the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/commission-on-the-defence-forces/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/commission-on-the-defence-forces/\">Commission on the</a> <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/defence-forces/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/defence-forces/\">Defence Forces</a>, which reported three years ago.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CECMOFPKJRFDRFGY66QCKEXSCY","additional_properties":{},"content":" This will see an expanded Army, the establishment of a fleet of modern armoured vehicles for the Army, a military intelligence school and a corps of 300 troops dedicated to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cybersecurity/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cybersecurity/\">cybersecurity</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ROTEFRYF3VEIJHHRCOOMFMN3TA","additional_properties":{},"content":"It will also lead to a 12-ship Irish Navy capable of offensive operations and a fleet of fighter aircraft.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NWV2XIHMJBIDO5ZFXKPZQNCO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland has been repeated criticised internationally for spending just 0.2 per cent of its GDP on defence, the lowest amount in the OECD.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EYZ4DOFS5G3RN2GRVQGYJ7FXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the 100th cadet class with the 12th potential officer class at the Curragh Camp in Co Kildare, Mr Harris said he was not “prepared to stand back and see Ireland lagging behind when it comes to defence spending.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CC2TNIS34FA5VMBFLE6ISH3OYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We must invest more in our personnel; but also in our capabilities so as to ensure we can do things like protect our critical undersea infrastructure or counter cyber and hybrid threats.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EYZ4DOFS5G3RN2GRVQGYJ7FXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Harris said the process of increasing spending on defence will see Ireland get to Level of Ambition 2 in 2027 and 2028 and then to LOA3 because Ireland, as a neutral country, needs to provide more for its own defence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"U7BABH2L3JCJRGCPIAXXNIB7SI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland, he stated, could not “recuse itself from the conversation” about providing peacekeepers in Ukraine in the event of an end to the conflict. He underlined that both he and Taoiseach Micheál Martin said Ireland will be “part of that conversation. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ITRYK2GVFJDGVJ6YSWIWQAE6HQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I am making the point that the world has changed and that we can no longer presume that we are immune, in a way that perhaps past governments have presumed, from the threats that the world faces. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E3LIO2XGGNG2FCISF77LYZ43HA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There is war on the continent of Europe. The types of threats we face have changed and we need to make sure that we are prepared to protect and defend ourselves and play a contribution in terms of peacekeeping. We need to get with the 21st-century needs in terms of defence.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y3TIMTDDSZDIXHONK225RLLPYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Thirty-five members of the 100th cadet class and the 29 members of the 12th potential officers course (noncommissioned officers) were commissioned.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7CQ223SBUJGPJJ3TP4IAPXYMHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is only the 12th time in the history of the State that a potential officer’s course has been run. This is available to those in the enlisted ranks seeking to become officers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5MJORXZH45GPDOXPCR4XDSEHXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Camp Shamrock, Lebanon: ‘There was a lot of pressure put on us by the Israelis to withdraw from our locations’","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"H75T2YUXLNFHXAEPEEBUEUW34E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Harris, who has just returned from Lebanon, praised the Irish personnel with the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/unifil/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/unifil/\">Unifil</a> force.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KIT5GMEC65GQHGYWRM72J2PLKM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tensions in south Lebanon have escalated in recent days with exchanges of fires between Hizbullah and the Israeli army.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ronan McGreevy"}},"name":"Ronan McGreevy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Simon Harris commits Ireland to highest level of ambition for the Defence Forces"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T19:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Minister for Defence admits Ireland is ‘lagging behind’ in terms of military spending","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SZTUNGSN5LHYOWDIZAY33MXAY4","auth":{"1":"13ccb3937d90f7ce06597efa9768fe5942c5f17f6a3ac1844f8b5a531707a33c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SZTUNGSN5LHYOWDIZAY33MXAY4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/minister-for-defence-admits-ireland-is-a-laggard-in-terms-of-military-spending/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"F6AUBYPIBRE7PCLCX7PKV6DYEI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":493,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/3af909aa-cfe2-40ec-9689-732cffcb2bb6/versions/1743176099/media/3c8d3c2f49c8db6cfe5fda3adedc1e0c_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/verona-murphy-will-survive-vote-of-confidence-as-ceann-comhairle-but-at-what-cost-to-her-standing/","content_elements":[{"_id":"GXHHYWQCKZGF5BRG6BXU2AS7PM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225191},"content":"“You are making an absolute holy show of yourselves.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NXC3OLRNRARNCFD3EV3I67264","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225192},"content":"That sentence, uttered in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Dáil</a> on Tuesday by Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" target=\"_blank\">Verona Murphy</a> – with her eyes cast to the heavens – is already destined for posterity: a nailed-on inclusion in a future episode of RTÉ’s look-back TV programme Reeling in the Years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AHWBCLSALFC5LEZGKV3CAD4L4Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225193},"content":"At a time of huge global tension, and the threat of US tariffs hanging over Ireland, the Dáil has been in sclerosis for two months because of a circular row over speaking rights. It has put all other business in abeyance: the formation of committees, new legislation, probing of issues such as housing and excessive State spending.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G7OMWM7S6NCJ7I5NRATKHFUHVY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225194},"content":"On Tuesday, the Dáil reheated the same unsavoury tunnel brawl that had led to the abandonment of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Micheál Martin</a>’s election as Taoiseach on January 22nd.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2Q4P4BF2MFBBPKRHTEYP6N2EDI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225195},"content":"The root cause was the attempted stroke by Tipperary North Independent TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_blank\">Michael Lowry</a> to form an Opposition technical group that included three Independent TDs who supported the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/government/\" target=\"_blank\">Government</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PAAXEO2Q75DDXJHUSBHAYO2JU4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225196},"content":"Murphy had been in Lowry’s group before her appointment. Opposition suspicions about her objectivity were dissipated somewhat a few days later in January when she ruled the Lowry group was not in Opposition. There the matter might have lain.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6P456ZDGPFDDZMMHA5WLIMQPA4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225197},"content":"However, within a week, Government chief whip <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-butler/\" target=\"_blank\">Mary Butler</a> proposed a brand new group: “Other TDs”, which would be made up of the Lowry Independent groups and backbench TDs from <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fianna-fail/\" target=\"_blank\">Fianna Fáil</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael/\" target=\"_blank\">Fine Gael</a>, who had long complained of having no proper speaking outlet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCOOYWOADFFA7JMYZJKK7VJ6UU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225198},"content":"For the Opposition this was a deliberate shifting of the goalposts to accommodate Lowry, a quid pro quo for supporting the Government “in good times and in bad”, as he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MSIPJ6T2RBFUXI5MNNA5ZOD7HQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225199},"content":"The touch paper for Tuesday’s explosive encounter was a Government motion to change standing orders to accommodate this new group and give it two eight-minute slots a week to ask questions of Government leaders.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M2YVH2ODLJFSLAHD7LLOJHJGUM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225200},"content":"It was to be taken without debate – in other words, railroaded through.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R2K7VA3WABFV7MS35LC5Q4VTMA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225201},"content":"The Opposition leaders met on Monday and decided on a strategy of robust engagement and disruption. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> tabled an amendment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L7UQ6WIDBVFLPIIFW2Z2YN2ONQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225202},"content":"On Tuesday, angry exchanges began almost as soon as the Dáil convened at 2pm with Taoiseach Micheál Martin being subjected to a constant barracking during Leaders’ Questions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7TMU6GWKZNGXTAJEB747WAW66Y","additional_properties":{"_id":"ZQU6X47KB5FO7ETKWNVO533DAU"},"content":"‘I at all times followed correct procedures’: Verona Murphy to resist Opposition no-confidence motion","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"K3YRLFTBUBDBZOQYSDG5GZQXT4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225203},"content":"The Ceann Comhairle took a different approach from the January debacle. She did not move to adjourn the House or suspend any member from the House, despite continuous interruptions, mainly from the Sinn Féin benches. Her strategy seemed to be to get done what needed to be done. This turned the Opposition anger on her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A3RXLCBM4BBJ3EUFBJRUONYXHU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225204},"content":"Shortly after 3pm, when the vote was due to be taken, the cacophony in the chamber became deafening.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BYZHXN26BRBMHM6E4NJAEXOUGA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225205},"content":"The procedure the Ceann Comhairle follows is to put the motion to the House. If she deems it passed, she says it is carried. At that stage, any member of the House can challenge that by saying ‘vótáil’. The Dáil then votes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NSZYRCY77NBS7HNHF5EJLFTK6M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225206},"content":"This moment led to a motion of no confidence in the Ceann Comhairle. Amid the roaring, where it was nigh impossible to hear anything clearly, Murphy proceeded to deem the motion carried, and Sinn Féin’s amendment defeated, as if nobody had said ‘vótáil’. A report by clerk of the Dáil Peter Finnegan produced the next day supported this version.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WE3VX55LMJBFRALLTY25LASCTI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225207},"content":"However, the Opposition parties studied the video footage and claimed that amid all the roaring what was clearly audible was somebody in the chamber uttering “votáil” at the critical moment. In other words, a vote should have been taken. They claimed this was a misstep by Murphy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O2GMEQ3FC5CGNHP332GXDLMKMM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225208},"content":"As TDs emerged from the chamber, it was clear the Ceann Comhairle was in the crosshairs of the Opposition. Within minutes she was accused of bias and of carrying out the Government’s bidding. Murphy would later absolutely deny there was any such arrangement. She had been scrupulously impartial, she maintained.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QDVQRHXPYNAUDO7PSM2VL3VYKI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225209},"content":"Within hours, five Opposition leaders had signed a motion stating the “Ceann Comhairle no longer retains the confidence of all members of Dáil Éireann”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J2ESNK6E3VCXPH63QHM7VNPLNU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225210},"content":"The other significant occurrence was Lowry’s two-finger gesture at People Before Profit TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paul-murphy/\" target=\"_blank\">Paul Murphy</a>, which went viral on social-media channels and dominated the next day’s newspaper front pages. The Opposition portrayed it as a symbol of the Government’s indifference to equanimity in the Dáil.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DR4QHMY76VFFDMC6INBBH5MSQA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225211},"content":"The notion that the Ceann Comhairle must enjoy the confidence of all sides of the House is a relatively new concept. It only emerged in 2016, when there was radical Dáil reform, which shifted the balance of power away from the Government to the Oireachtas itself. That became about because of the fragmentation of traditional power, with no party, or combination of parties, close to a majority.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OM6JJ55CEVCP5DAV2NCUQ5FNEI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225212},"content":"There was a secret ballot for the job of Ceann Comhairle for the first time. The winner, Fianna Fáil’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sean-o-fearghail/\" target=\"_blank\">Seán Ó Fearghaíl</a>, was generally respected by all during his nine years in the job. But he was an outlier. Those who preceded him this century were strongly associated with the government of the day.","type":"text"},{"_id":"33KB2TWR5NBBBMND7FPSLGRNAU","additional_properties":{"_id":"JLHEAV54EFHRDCWMACJBQFTTH4"},"content":"Verona Murphy’s survival as Ceann Comhairle hinges on two questions","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"WNCXAESIBVENLKF4OJAIQ7UJPY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225213},"content":"In 2004, the Labour Party threatened to take a no-confidence motion against ceann comhairle Rory O’Hanlon of Fianna Fáil after its leader Pat Rabbitte accused him of being “the most partisan chair this House has ever had”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EBTIBI2L7FGYZGE6TUXOCUIJII","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225214},"content":"In similar bad-tempered exchanges, Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin threatened to take a confidence motion against Fine Gael’s Seán Barrett in 2014 and again in 2015 after they claimed he was shielding the government and its ministers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZIBVQJEZWZHCXGLTI3J4NOQUC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225215},"content":"Fianna Fáil’s John O’Donoghue also looked like facing a no-confidence motion in late 2009 but resigned before it was tabled. Journalist Ken Foxe, through an Freedom of Information Act request, had disclosed O’Donoghue had run up enormous bills for foreign travel, including expensive hotels and meals and limousine hire. The difference between O’Donoghue and others was the extravagance of the spending was such that his own colleagues in Fianna Fáil could no longer support his tenure.","type":"text"},{"_id":"33P3657DY5FETINMPEQRS6JE3Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225216},"content":"So where does it leave Murphy, and the deteriorating relationship between Government and Opposition? Nobody is in any doubt that the Ceann Comhairle will survive the vote. The question is will it impact her standing and her authority?","type":"text"},{"_id":"SUVV6D7MUZHTRNJ6NB4IANPPKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225217},"content":"Undoubtedly, says Sinn Féin whip <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/padraig-mac-lochlainn/\" target=\"_blank\">Pádraig Mac Lochlainn</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W7VF2ZKCTZHZXNQDIBP76PAJWA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225218},"content":"“It’s the first time a Ceann Comhairle has lost the confidence of an overwhelming majority of the Opposition. It’s a very serious situation,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RMDPA7HIXFHQZDU4OIXGC6AE2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225219},"content":"“If she stays she will need to reflect on how she will rebuild relationships and restore confidence.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YVODMMWNHFAV7LV5THT7WCJHUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225220},"content":"At this moment, the Opposition is in no hurry to co-operate with the Coalition but will not seek to disrupt the Dáil. Sinn Féin may pursue its argument that Murphy did not follow procedure. However, a Fianna Fáil backbench TD commented that that was hardly a firing offence. A senior figure from another Opposition party wondered if there was any point in a row over an esoteric parliamentary process that will be lost on most people.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VLYZGKBNKJFBLN6JB2K3EEFJUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225221},"content":"“I think the public has tired of it. Only for Michael Lowry’s two fingers we might have got some stick this week for prolonging the row,” said this TD.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WCDIINDE7BAQBLZO54HQP4A4AU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225222},"content":"He added, however, that Murphy would now be viewed by the Opposition as Government-facing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K4R4FOGT7ZA4XCJQRAO5CE2T3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225223},"content":"Government sources say the confidence vote may be ill-tempered but the vote will be carried by a margin of 20 or more.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RRMHXXBKCFBABLVMUMNB5S7KBM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743171225224},"content":"It’s not completely over. The Dáil’s business committee met on Thursday to set the agenda for next week. Ironically, the first smaller group to get to ask questions of the Taoiseach next week will be Michael Lowry’s group. Expect fireworks.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"}]},"description":{"basic":"Row over speaking rights has put all other Dáil business in abeyance for two months"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T19:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Verona Murphy will survive vote of confidence as Ceann Comhairle but at what cost to her standing?","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"XOOCSKI3XZDY5KUNPLPZVQZXQQ","auth":{"1":"c1f8191f19709d7367a433e5ed7dc9d78cc90847de4cb13f6a63dfb46143b93c"},"focal_point":{"x":504,"y":291},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/XOOCSKI3XZDY5KUNPLPZVQZXQQ.png"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/verona-murphy-will-survive-vote-of-confidence-as-ceann-comhairle-but-at-what-cost-to-her-standing/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"LIR2O5GHTBDN3I6OVPURYKYWAM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":229,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/05ef1baa-d69e-4754-956c-22d1e92c58a0/versions/1743181680/media/9d9ae40e4f920c4ef8ab5d2c54943f1c_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/independent-senator-aubrey-mccarthy-expresses-interest-in-possible-aras-run/","content_elements":[{"_id":"D3B635GYUVAJTKHUCWTUM5IFUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072436},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBYZVEZZTJCSPI263ISUYRSM5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072438},"content":"Independent senator and businessman Aubrey McCarthy has expressed an interest in a possible bid to become president.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T6VNDTA6DZA3PM2TWQD7QFYHCI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072439},"content":"Mr McCarthy said he has been contacted by a number of people who have asked him to consider entering the race for Áras an Uachtaráin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GKHKZG3DLVHMPLIA3HWDWB3GBM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072440},"content":"He said he is “absolutely flattered to be even considered for such a role” and it is “early days” in terms of a final decision to run.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TASE5BVR4VFZFMHOFVQM2VU4ZQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072441},"content":"“It’s a case of listening to the soundings, listening to what people are saying,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LOIULDJGT5A6JFTBV77RDSS4W4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072442},"content":"“If people felt I had a genuine opportunity and that I could make a difference I would have to be mad not to consider it.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"2LK7NTSOCRCZDKLDWQ27F6TWOE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072443},"content":"The election is due to be held in October after the end of outgoing President <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-d-higgins/\" target=\"_blank\">Michael D Higgins</a>’s second seven-year term.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NSAS25SPJFCHRDSHQX65YMEJXM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072444},"content":"Candidates need nominations from four city or county councils or at least 20 <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/oireachtas/\" target=\"_blank\">Oireachtas</a> members to get on the ballot paper.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3POLDJMHTBCT5LMAPL57QYYJQY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072445},"content":"Mr McCarthy, the co-founder of homelessness and addiction support organisation Tiglin, said that some of those who have contacted him about running for the presidency are local authority councillors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JRCZ6OKM7RHAPOII2FWCY3DUXY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072446},"content":"The businessman, who has a furniture store and cafe in Naas as well as a removals and storage company, was first elected to the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/seanad-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Seanad</a> this year for the University of Dublin constituency.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WB6M2GSAEFFIBKDBCFOKLUSR6Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072447},"content":"Involved in The Light House, a cafe and service for homeless people, Mr McCarthy said he believes his “experience in advocacy” resonated with Seanad voters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y3XN6XKDMZHU3JOB77CJFDZE6Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072448},"content":"He added: “I know certainly in the race for the Áras you’d certainly be looking for a candidate with focus on social justice and inclusion and I have a history of that.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"HL3YHCAREFBUZL2PEC2TOQ7XIE","additional_properties":{"_id":"4RUZMZ5RSJHURON5JVAODFBNQY"},"content":"Left-wing parties intensify discussions on joint candidate for presidential election","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"L2VRFN5MAFCX3H43DIMS2NJWHA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072449},"content":"Mr McCarthy is the latest person to be revealed to be considering a run for the presidency.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SDT4MB7RM5EZ5LCB4LYPYVVF3Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072450},"content":"Earlier this month, Independent senator Frances Black said she had been approached by a number of parties about running in the presidential election. She said she would be “open to the conversations”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FGE44FINPRFC5HFBNLKOCXRR2A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072451},"content":"Ms Black is a singer who had a high national profile before she was elected to the Seanad in 2016. She brought the Occupied Territories Bill before the Oireachtas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VLZILFC3IRFDXF5IXREDXPFTWU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072452},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/david-hall/\" target=\"_blank\">David Hall</a>, another businessman and prominent campaigner for mortgage holders in distress, is also considering a potential run.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AUGPI26IJ5BDNEYZS6CLXDKQE4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072453},"content":"The only person to confirm their intention to contest the election is Donegal businessman and former Dragons’ Den panellist <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peter-casey/\" target=\"_blank\">Peter Casey</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"46LNWBUAWNG7BKBOCTFUNO56QA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072454},"content":"He came second to Mr Higgins in 2018 and has run unsuccessfully in other elections since.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CH2UMWGYYNBJ7H66NEL2C5DWRM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072455},"content":"Mr Casey plans to seek local authorities’ nominations to get on the ballot paper.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GAOZOW3YCFGPZOQXY23AXK4CFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072456},"content":"Controversial MMA fighter <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-mcgregor/\" target=\"_blank\">Conor McGregor</a> has also suggested he will contest the election though there is considerable doubt as to whether he could secure the required nominations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TA36PAHARZFRZHDDTLIK2CTOGE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072457},"content":"Names mentioned as possible candidates for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fianna-fail/\" target=\"_blank\">Fianna Fáil</a> include MEPs <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/barry-andrews/\" target=\"_blank\">Barry Andrews</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cynthia-ni-mhurchu/\" target=\"_blank\">Cynthia Ní Mhurchú</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EVX2QABG2JCWTMEWHEO577D5MI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072458},"content":"Former taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/bertie-ahern/\" target=\"_blank\">Bertie Ahern</a> has been coy on any presidential ambitions though he would likely face intense scrutiny over this experience with the planning tribunal and the economic crash should he seek to run.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOUGP2I3PJGJFPKOBIXXLHZLNE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072459},"content":"For <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael/\" target=\"_blank\">Fine Gael</a>, former European commissioner <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mairead-mcguinness/\" target=\"_blank\">Mairéad McGuinness</a>, former tánaiste <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/frances-fitzgerald/\" target=\"_blank\">Frances Fitzgerald</a> and former senior minister <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/heather-humphreys/\" target=\"_blank\">Heather Humphreys</a> have all been mentioned in relation to possible presidential bids.","type":"text"},{"_id":"73LAEXJF45AW3HRGKBCP5JKJNI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072460},"content":"Fine Gael MEP and former GAA president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sean-kelly/\" target=\"_blank\">Seán Kelly</a> has spoken of how he is considering an Áras run.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LG4SH3TPIZGAJMDVMKF237YO3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072461},"content":"There have been talks among left-wing parties including <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a>, the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/labour-party/\" target=\"_blank\">Labour Party</a> and the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_blank\">Social Democrats</a> on a possible common candidate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GRNG3OZ22BDITFWKA3SHBVOW2I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743179072462},"content":"Names linked to a potential candidacy include Ms Black, SDLP MP <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/claire-hanna/\" target=\"_blank\">Claire Hanna</a> and Independent TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/catherine-connolly/\" target=\"_blank\">Catherine Connolly</a>.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"}]},"description":{"basic":"Businessman and charity co-founder the latest person to reveal they are considering presidential tilt"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T17:07:57.53Z","headlines":{"basic":"Independent senator Aubrey McCarthy expresses interest in possible Áras run","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"EGYKG5Q4UNHOTEPXHT25LU4HRE","auth":{"1":"f01d5edef514c456de93c60908366ec87f6a35de27c336a202715115920195fd"},"focal_point":{"x":3670,"y":1312},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/EGYKG5Q4UNHOTEPXHT25LU4HRE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/independent-senator-aubrey-mccarthy-expresses-interest-in-possible-aras-run/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"ONKFPR355ZBTBOHLBET63R4NZA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":185,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/edf2b891-d2b6-4015-8e06-7d15509e4e2c/versions/1743178383/media/b3bd854bf0738d584cdd9e5f1b7c3b55_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/funeral-of-former-fianna-fail-fundraiser-des-richardson-told-he-lived-life-to-the-full/","content_elements":[{"_id":"GJRLD4YBGJBG7DBWFRRDM77BGI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187699},"content":"The years he spent as a fundraiser for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fianna-fail/\" target=\"_blank\">Fianna Fáil</a> were the highlight of the varied business career of businessman Des Richardson, his funeral Mass in Dublin heard on Friday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P3NEZXSL4ZGCND6WJT7HDUFJ5I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187700},"content":"However, he was first and foremost a family man, Mr Richardson’s daughter Jenny told the congregation at Church of the Assumption, on Booterstown Avenue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H5I6TQY7SBATXKLZ3BUNYLH5YA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187701},"content":"“He worked hard to give us everything he thought we deserved,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DY73FW3AARHXRFWBV6YBUPDMRM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187702},"content":"“The four loves of dad’s life, the four Fs, were family, friends, football and Fianna Fáil,” and his time as party fundraiser had been the highlight of his varied career, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TKGSWGHDO5DPXPKIE7RYOWHUPI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187703},"content":"“He had so much fun and made many good friends throughout those years and cherished those friendships for the rest of his life.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"F6CUEZ3XEJH6DEOMFB2JHEOZ34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187704},"content":"Mr Richardson was a close associate of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/bertie-ahern/\" target=\"_blank\">Bertie Ahern</a> during the latter’s years as taoiseach and leader of Fianna Fáil. Mr Richardson gave evidence to the Mahon tribunal when it was investigating aspects of Mr Ahern’s finances, as well as those of Fianna Fáil and Mr Ahern’s Drumcondra constituency operation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RSQC4NPWIBE3XKNDLPMWJALB2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187705},"content":"Born in the Liberties, Mr Richardson left school at the age of 15 and later studied at night in Bolton Street college while working and playing soccer, including for St Pat’s and Home Farm. During his career he worked for several companies and was invited to join several boards, including that of Aer Lingus.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PLCPTATFNFBLBKQNBSJHDMAIJE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187706},"content":"His daughter Kerri said Mr Richardson was “not a boring dad”, she had always known that he was amazing, and had been grateful every day for having him. “He lived and loved life to the fullest.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"EGTIAF3TYFFX3GABYWIJ2CUOFU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187707},"content":"Mr Ahern read a passage from the first letter of St Paul to the Corinthians, beginning “Love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"SW32OYQPDFEYDCG4WJCOT7MQ7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187708},"content":"Among those in attendance were former general secretary of Fianna Fáil Pat Farrell, former European commissioner and attorney general, David Byrne, former Fianna Fáil junior minister Seán Power, former chairman of Dublin Port Joe Burke, former adviser to Mr Ahern Ger Howlin (now a columnist with The Irish Times), Mr Ahern’s former speechwriter Brian Murphy, head of protocol Denise Kavanagh, solicitors Liam Guidera and Hugh Millar, PR executive Paul Allen, former chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan and Mr Ahern’s former partner Celia Larkin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZTXZHVUHBBSZFES6Y6HLIQO2A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187709},"content":"The mass, which included singing from Simon Morgan, Eoin Hynes and Andrea Delaney, accompanied by Gerald Peregrine on cello and Maria Geheran on the organ, was organised by Toni Wall, of Massey funeral directors, who organised the annual Fianna Fáil fundraising tent at the Galway Races during the Ahern leadership years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YOMNFL7P2VC4LJIFLOCHCURH5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743177187710},"content":"Mr Richardson is survived by his wife, Fran, children Jenny, Orla and Kerri, in-laws and grandchildren.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Colm Keena"}},"name":"Colm Keena"}]},"description":{"basic":"Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern among those in attendance at Mass for man associated with party’s ‘Galway tent’ years"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T16:02:09.6Z","headlines":{"basic":"Former Fianna Fáil fundraiser Des Richardson lived life to full, funeral told","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"OLDDSHF74FAPBA4Q76YVIO4PPY","auth":{"1":"4b5884dd32eebcc78d117bdfdbeb219986758cf0c402deece9f509f08e0cb4ab"},"focal_point":{"x":3135,"y":1160},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OLDDSHF74FAPBA4Q76YVIO4PPY.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/funeral-of-former-fianna-fail-fundraiser-des-richardson-told-he-lived-life-to-the-full/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"BQCPPZKE5JFZPBJRU2FPQDC3HY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":399,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/492317a4-629d-4ef2-bd6a-e004e898b847/versions/1743176179/media/398a4dd9f0587c14bdd48638033198fb_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/cuts-in-state-spending-not-on-table-in-tariff-war-gaming-chambers-says/","content_elements":[{"_id":"5LDU6Y2ARZGXTKABNMGCUKPALQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government is not in a position where it has to contemplate cutting back State spending in response to the likely economic shock of US tariffs on trade, Minister for Public Expenditure <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-chambers/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-chambers/\">Jack Chambers</a> has said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5K3SP6PERC4HD2PKGH2WEP6VU","additional_properties":{},"content":"US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\">Donald Trump</a> is set to announce sweeping tariffs on trade coming from Europe and elsewhere next week, a move expected to hit Ireland hard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MFW65ADUHFGFFAYUXCYJREECKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eu/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eu/\">European Union (EU)</a> needed to be careful in how it responded to prevent worsening the trade dispute, Mr Chambers said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V7R64XOYNNHZ3DD5BZODN6AU7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government is trying to “game” the various different scenarios that could play out, and as a result will have to “carefully manage” any increase in public spending, he said. “We’re not in a position of having to make specific cuts to public expenditure.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"D7XUQYTXVJDIBLZXPORZYMVRKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach Micheál Martin on Friday said “engagement is key” to dealing with the imposition of US tariffs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OYE7FBDPQJHUJK3N5IXYYXQPCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The US president has already announced tariffs, which are effectively taxes on imports, including steel and aluminium products, and all foreign-made cars and trucks. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQUXDDN44BFQ5CDTG5QVSKTLKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Trump is due to follow up with much broader measures on April 2nd, which may include tariffs on pharmaceutical imports into the US. He has frequently spoken about wanting to use tariffs to pressure US pharmaceutical companies, to move manufacturing jobs created in Ireland back to the US. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2MDGE5WYEJCKFBVWGL6NO7QC3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking in Brussels on Friday, Mr Chambers said the Government is “war gaming” the potential impacts of US tariffs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V4NWYNPHDNC73MH6L3CRHVK4EY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Similar to Britain’s decision to leave the EU, the full impact of the trade disruption may not become clear “immediately”, he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6UIRGZ2GXRA7PE43TNF3QKE2JM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-commission/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-commission/\">European Commission</a>, the EU’s executive body that proposes laws and sets the bloc’s trade policy, has been drawing up a list of US products and industries to hit with retaliatory tariffs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WUACOARKOJC7FOZHRJBGSBUMB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Many EU states have spent recent weeks lobbying the commission, to try to avoid drawing certain sectors important to their domestic economies, into what may become a trade war. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVIHS3D2ZZFNLNXWPWHKAZ3GIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Irish officials are having “extensive engagement” with the commission about the tariff plans, Mr Chambers said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NUVSQ2RXHNEF3C36K3NMSKXJZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We need to be careful about retaliatory and tit-for-tat measures, which could worsen a trade dispute ... Ireland is reflecting that input in the context of engagements and deliberations with the commission,” Mr Chambers said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DYW7YH6XXJCFRCW2BX4CE4DOS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government has been making representations about the “concentrated risk” Ireland faced, when it comes to the pharma and tech sector, he said. Ireland is the member state “most exposed and the most at risk” to an EU-US trade war, he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EW52PEJ3ZZDC7KHL53HCWGXK4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Beyond the immediate shock to the flow of transatlantic trade, the “uncertainty” brought into companies’ boardrooms could mean they did not invest in Ireland over the coming years, he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"U3EHBKOURBHLHIPJUXWMK4KTR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland and Trump’s tariffs: From pharma to booze – how will our prices, jobs and economy be hit?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"XO3KGPY4RJHJJJS3KSW7LK5QPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"With almost 40 per cent of pharma exports in Ireland going to the US, with an estimated value close to €60 billion in 2024, the Taoiseach on Friday described president Trump’s tariff threats as “very serious”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UQFQFEY75VFFTPWTA6GPQWAAEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking in Limerick on Friday ahead of the inaugural meeting of the Limerick Mayoral and Government Consultative Forum, Mr Martin warned that pharmaceutical tariffs, in particular, would lead to “high inflation and higher prices for medicines for consumers, and will damage the economic prospects for the companies insofar as they’ve embedded very substantial funding in plants in Ireland”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KU57OK2PJVHHBCMN2IXG7LMKAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"E7ROHDN4KRHM5KUXG62NPUC3TI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"3N3BQ4X7YJF7BEIK3FA3OHY4GU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ITK6L6RCTZALHMSZLG67OSH62M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meanwhile, projects like <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/metrolink/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/metrolink/\">Metrolink</a> “need to continue” even if there is an economic shock caused by an EU-US trade war, according to Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K6SIU2QIWFBELAUFQGUOJV735E","additional_properties":{},"content":"He also said he does not foresee a situation where capital investment in the soon-to-be updated National Development Plan (NDP) “would be impacted by the current geopolitical situation”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PXQZVSRUSFBPFHAPOGUQN7YDUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr O’Brien was speaking as he announced €633 million in funding for national roads this year, an increase of €92 million on the sums provided in 2024.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2HBECHVYOBCWZNQX4G3RRFWICQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Projects to be progressed with the funds include the Adare Bypass, the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy road and the N6 Galway City Ring Road.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HOH2YDZMJFGERBJHT4WAJIK36U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The old Metro North project was shelved amid the fallout of the last economic crisis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LI7Y4BSLG5CL7ABPPFYRVMPSU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"A successor project, Metrolink, which would link Swords in north Dublin to the city centre via Dublin Airport is in the planning stage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YKSWKCW3IBGNHFSJFKUT2FNEUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A recent Departmental briefing paper for Mr O’Brien said the project should could between €7.16 billion and €12.25 billion but, should there be planning difficulties, this could rise to as much as €23.4 billion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FUOM6NYNJVAONE3OXAMRVBH3OU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OWWEKLAFJVCRXPDP4AJKDXPAHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBQROVZ2URBGXKHQQANDS2ELCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSPJTWUNWNBABCYIZ4HTLRSREA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr O’Brien said the cost benefit analysis “stacks up so well” and said Metrolink “will pay for itself over a sustained period of time.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PH6S4K6GRJD4TFGO3FGUXJZJKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Power"}},"name":"Jack Power"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Adam Leahy"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"}]},"description":{"basic":"Taoiseach Micheál Martin said ‘engagement is key’ to dealing with the looming imposition of US tariffs"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T15:31:16.322Z","headlines":{"basic":"Cuts in State spending not on table in tariff ‘war gaming’, Chambers says","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6R2DGS5LIZF3ZEGERW4HC4VNBI","auth":{"1":"b298ed0cde7b99fcc7213482828729ae7719966be928ab37edd3b52e42b8acac"},"focal_point":{"x":2419,"y":1775},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6R2DGS5LIZF3ZEGERW4HC4VNBI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/cuts-in-state-spending-not-on-table-in-tariff-war-gaming-chambers-says/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"P3PAB3YMGRBILA5RCVT3IWVEDA","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/are-labour-getting-too-close-to-sinn-fein-for-their-own-good/","content_elements":[{"_id":"INEOLHBHHNGVHE2UUROFM245M4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pat Leahy and Sarah Burns join Hugh Linehan to look back on the week in politics:","type":"text"},{"_id":"4DB7N3KDTFAEFM5V4LBB32DDOQ","type":"list"},{"_id":"4OGT3EKCE5HWDELQJXAVGPQ7IU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"VNDVYOXL5NDZDM2BPR6JA4SGEA","type":"list"},{"_id":"VO653EWOYJGALPUICUX6GILSEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZOQECXY7ZHZXLJIGY5MPP74LA","type":"list"},{"_id":"L7T7ZEYSNFGVJA4QF6OEONSMXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Plus, the panel picks their favourite Irish Times pieces of the week:","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCMZ4ONJWJFPHIWYIFX5I5PFLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Top <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/us/2025/03/25/pete-hegseth-texted-me-the-war-plan-how-top-us-officials-shared-military-strike-details-in-group-chat-with-journalist/\" rel=\"\">US officials sharing military strike details</a> in group chat with a journalist, the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/27/web-summit-case-paddy-cosgrave-was-steve-jobs-daire-hickey-and-david-kelly-were-steve-wozniak/\" rel=\"\">Web Summit case</a> and the friendships ruined, and five years on – where did the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/27/no-you-were-not-misled-about-the-origins-of-covid/\" rel=\"\">Covid virus originate</a>?","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T15:25:35.48Z","headlines":{"basic":"Are Labour getting too close to Sinn Féin for their own good?","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ","auth":{"1":"38cf5148d5a7d25ad482784454d89542e65347062ba7a88eeb3f5b1814cb7a0a"},"focal_point":{"x":1776,"y":1112},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ.jpg"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":2464.492,"episodeTitle":"Listen to our weekly digest of all things political","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/episodes/67e6abc5ea383e95069e7692.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/are-labour-getting-too-close-to-sinn-fein-for-their-own-good/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"AWUIII2FPNHQ3NB54UP6KXMZHI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":244,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/4922e928-3787-483d-a4dd-14b96098ec5e/versions/1743169579/media/abc0d6a1743e531db30e5bad976252ff_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/oneill-did-not-see-ex-press-officer-mcmonagle-at-stormont-event-report-finds/","content_elements":[{"_id":"4EKZ3IZPCNCKRECP3YN7EVURFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Northern Ireland’s First Minister <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michelle-oneill/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michelle-oneill/\">Michelle O’Neill</a> did not see a former <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\">Sinn Féin</a> press officer who was facing sex charges when they both appeared at an event in Stormont in 2023, a report has found.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CF66IJYDAND5LJJFBLJ3OWXUNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The independent Assembly Commissioner for Standards, Dr Melissa McCullough, has found that Ms O’Neill did not breach the ministerial code of conduct.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2ZVF2O66JNH25ME2PQUBK5746I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Committee on Standards and Privileges has published the commissioner’s report on two complaints made against Ms O’Neill last year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KYZWUPAFSZFNBKNLXSW6TCGMTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former Sinn Féin press officer Michael McMonagle was suspended by the party after he was arrested in 2021. He went on to work for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) in 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CDO2REENCFAFBGK56GXJD2IBFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"McMonagle, from Limewood Street in Derry, was jailed last year after being found guilty of a series of offences, including attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual activity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XEBOCKIEOBB6ZGJNV235BJ66WM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two other Sinn Féin press officers, Seán Mag Uidhir and Caolan McGinley, resigned from the party after Sinn Féin began disciplinary proceedings against them after providing references for McMonagle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B4G2K5YWVBABZAX7H22TLTFIWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"One complaint against Ms O’Neill came from TUV MLA Timothy Gaston who said she had breached the ministerial code by telling the Executive Office committee she had not known about the whereabouts of McMonagle after his suspension from Sinn Féin in 2021, but she was pictured standing yards from him at a Stormont event in February 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NEXRVBQ54RBWZBJ5R7TMXOJTVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"A separate complaint from Ulster Unionist MLA Doug Beattie claimed she had breached the code by stating that her account that she only became aware of references provided by Mr Mag Uidhir and Mr McGinley for McMonagle the day before the story broke in the media was “not credible”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7YXWRUNNSRGCPAK334LTHDFH4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The commissioner said the First Minister did not take up the opportunity to make a written or oral response to the complaints.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7OPZWXLYZNFNXNDYASYBV7X5OY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The commissioner established Ms O’Neill had had no contact with McMonagle since before his suspension from Sinn Féin in August 2021.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3F2QMAEJ6FBO5H7OCTMVQQOXOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"She also said: “First Minister O’Neill did not see Mr McMonagle in Parliament Buildings on February 14th, 2023 and had no interaction with him on that day.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OLOAOOXYEJHPNOWKCITEQ4WWOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She added: “While the photograph may lead some to believe that the First Minister must have seen Mr McMonagle due to their proximity, both she and Mr McMonagle have affirmed that there was no interaction between them.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HJZMM2VZQFFOJFZUYVXPNXV4V4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“What the photograph does not convey is that the Great Hall was quite busy on that day, as the Assembly had been recalled to discuss the organ donation legislation.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"KB36X7ZKDJAZDMZFNY4FWGOYE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The commissioner also found that Mr McGinley and Mr Mag Uidhir did not notify anyone in Sinn Féin that they had provided references for McMonagle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UU7NQWALXZHH5J6V7BEY4RPCFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said a former Sinn Féin HR director had engaged in email discussion in August 2023 with the BHF regarding the references provided to them.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QTCIPAA65ZETTEOXOCO7PU6TW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"His report said: “The Sinn Féin HR director did not notify First Minister O’Neill, or anyone in the party, about the email correspondence from the BHF in relation to its queries about the reference providers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZ5WXZJDFFFJJC3VSGRBJHYIYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“First Minister O’Neill became aware of the references provided by Mr McGinley and Mr Mag Uidhir on September 25 2024.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YQS5CB4JC5GYLCTIXEERXQ3EIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The chairperson of the Committee on Standards and Privileges, Cathy Mason, said: “While the current procedures do not provide the committee with an adjudication role in relation to complaints against ministers, by publishing this report, the committee has fulfilled its function in relation to considering and publishing all investigation reports by the Commissioner.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2NUJMQE65BCQ3OI3IVOI7VSVQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The committee’s report includes the commissioner’s investigation report, which sets out the factual findings, analysis and reasoning from her investigation of the complaints.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RTXCVCCM7BBQDBDORZMLKZFEQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The committee notes that the commissioner has concluded from the evidence gathered and analysed that the First Minister has not breached the ministerial Code of Conduct.” – PA","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Standards commissioner rules O’Neill did not breach ministerial code of conduct"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T13:41:13.06Z","headlines":{"basic":"O’Neill ‘did not see ex-press officer McMonagle at Stormont event’, report finds","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HQG7CIK75VUNXSHIIHHTC5YXVI","auth":{"1":"27f071363d2ee7e85b03d59cb4e498ef7232fdff1973d628c81bc83e3bf46c48"},"focal_point":{"x":588,"y":297},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HQG7CIK75VUNXSHIIHHTC5YXVI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/oneill-did-not-see-ex-press-officer-mcmonagle-at-stormont-event-report-finds/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"YBJUHRSM4FGF5NA544VVQ66SWE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":255,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/32c2cf21-8b26-477d-9851-68b6e156a8a2/versions/1743168490/media/2706294aa18656d24d358b7d2dc817e6_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/reforms-that-undermine-belfast-agreement-will-be-dangerous-experts-warn/","content_elements":[{"_id":"AWBQLRN6EJBAZB3TGHKS7OBD7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877884},"content":"Repeated <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/stormont-assembly/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/stormont-assembly/\">Stormont</a> collapses and the parlous state of Northern Ireland’s public services have fuelled the desire for change, but reforms that undermine the Belfast Agreement will be “dangerous”, a report today declares.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3P2PWHSSFZE3ZHK2K2O6NOVVTM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877885},"content":"Published by University College London’s Constitution Unit and written by Conor Kelly, Alan Renwick and Alan Whysall, the report examines possible reforms that could be “plausibly” made without upending the 1998 agreement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HT7Z3JNYI5EWJGUFUKRGT3ZFFM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877886},"content":"The UCL team, who say the agreement has been “rightly celebrated around the world”, warn that the Stormont institutions have had “mixed success”, especially because of the lack of voice for middle-ground political voices, such as the Alliance Party.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KYQOVV3R4FGCTM73ABTTRGUYIE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877887},"content":"So far, Stormont has had “a limited record of delivery”, with Northern Ireland facing “a mounting list of problems in healthcare, public finance and other aspects of good governance”, they said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J6IV5H374JC5BG6A5QZHTSPSC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877888},"content":"Proposing a list of possible reforms, though siding with none, the UCL report said “the simplest reform option” would be to return to the pre-St Andrew’s Agreement rules where the First and Deputy First Minister are elected by cross-community majorities.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FVHTYHXP3JGFXFUK6GYHDHB7RU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877889},"content":"Since 2007, however, the largest party in the Assembly nominates the First Minister and the largest party in the other designation nominates the Deputy First Minister. If either refuse to do so, the Executive cannot be formed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L6BXEGZFURAM7B7GXW2TPU7SRY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877890},"content":"“No party would formally have an outright veto over Executive formation. Parties would need to present a joint ticket to the Assembly, which any two parties could do,” the report’s authors said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ITXTGMSIYZDHBOBN3XGKZXG634","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877891},"content":"Naturally, a nationalist or unionist party with 50 per cent support in the Assembly could block any ticket in a cross-community vote, but they would have the opportunity not to take up either position without blocking the operation of the institutions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DGBTP77ZZ5CGJKXYPBXBV7RWFA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877892},"content":"In the past, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) was reluctant to be seen voting for a Sinn Féin candidate but “over a quarter of a century on from the end of the Troubles, however, this risk may now be less significant”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I6XF2KLE2BC2DD7RCFEW4FRFBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"End of segregation in Northern Ireland is a long way off, report finds","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"OZTXSB5FYFDIBA3LAMKEOOFZFY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877893},"content":"Such a reform would worsen the situation for Alliance, however, which does not designate as nationalist or unionist – since it could never win the backing of more than 50 per cent of nationalist and unionist MLAs even if it becomes the largest party.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5LHQS2X5CZFMXBLGEJWK2TVK44","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877894},"content":"More radical reform would see an end to mandatory coalitions at Stormont, where an Executive would be endorsed as a whole in an Assembly vote, subject to weighted majorities to guarantee cross-community support.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2YHD3WJU5AQDOUAK6GJU3II4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877895},"content":"The size of the weighted majority required could vary from 55 per cent to 70 per cent, though it could be set anew after each Assembly election to include nationalists, unionists and Others.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GRLX4TUJPBA5JLGZOOUWML5CIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Depending on the threshold chosen, it could end the ability of any one party to prevent an Executive being formed – especially if it was set at two-thirds, since neither Sinn Féin nor the DUP holds a third of the vote on their own.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6EK57V3UBNH4VDLL342M7S3PWM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877897},"content":"A middle ground option could see the First and Deputy First Minister elected if a joint slate received the support of 50 per cent of unionists, nationalists and Others, or a weighted majority vote of the Assembly, possibly requiring two-thirds support.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LAOXYYWDIZDRREX6OA7BJS6IAA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877898},"content":"The St Andrew’s Agreements could be kept, the report outlined, but with a change, whereby the third largest party in the Assembly would be entitled to nominate a First or Deputy First Minister if either of the two largest parties withdrew.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HQLLN4ZDRBGCDFJQFMTGYHSZIM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877899},"content":"Such a move might prevent the collapse of the institutions but the authors warned that the party passed over “might be large enough to block the business of the Executive” thereafter, leading to gridlock.","type":"text"},{"_id":"34JP4X63ZFGSLGYOWYXAB4AQHA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877900},"content":"The titles of First and Deputy First Minister could be changed, too, to Joint First Ministers to reflect the fact that the positions are of equal rank, and the support of both is needed for any action by the Executive.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CYWKTAMBOFGSJO67XYO2L4UCOQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743090877901},"content":"“Some argue, with this change, parties might spend less time during election campaigns focused on who will be First Minister and more time on substantive issues. Any such effect, however, would be small,” the authors write.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hennessy"}},"name":"Mark Hennessy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Northern Ireland facing a ‘mounting list of problems in healthcare, public finance and other aspects of good governance’, new report says"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T13:23:06.096Z","headlines":{"basic":"Reforms that undermine Belfast Agreement will be ‘dangerous’, experts warn","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Common Ground"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KH3GR3D5ASHBYBLHC5JCTKLC6M","auth":{"1":"e907eb59389d1d7f55f016025753cfa683ee6f7c564580a4469a11c043472432"},"focal_point":{"x":777,"y":279},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KH3GR3D5ASHBYBLHC5JCTKLC6M.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4","auth":{"1":"3621094a80576cd9edf9549c0d2d7a76011c5f5dcb887e8390b004644bcf2848"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/reforms-that-undermine-belfast-agreement-will-be-dangerous-experts-warn/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"M4CJDIIB2RBGTH73FJUCPZO5JY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":274,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/3cc2289d-ec27-4dc8-8c3a-9752ca577413/versions/1743165379/media/d23c7ace404889dfa644006eca5f7144_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/trade-war-jitters-on-merrion-street-while-perpetual-dail-dispute-tests-patience/","content_elements":[{"_id":"OGZ6P2S33VDPLPZ3IZEO4XPLHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"OM63DP72RJEOJILZLOD7HH7IWQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Story of the week</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"D2R4642NP5HR3EFEQCQDAUA53M","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is the long-running dispute that is testing the patience of even the most keen followers of a good political tussle but the interminable speaking rights row was once more top of the agenda in the<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann\"> Dáil</a> this week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FYS3I4SYPBDSDKE4UTLAF6TD4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"There were chaotic - and to those present deafening - scenes in the chamber on Tuesday as the Government pushed through changes to the Dáil rules.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QR4BC4TCCNCPVBPXOBORKTKUX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The changes will see Independent TDs that support the Government, including controversial Tipperary North TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\">Michael Lowry</a>, being able to avail of new eight-minute slots to pose questions to the Taoiseach or Tánaiste.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2JWSH3NZLZERTDVTFJ6QK7Y6LU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Backbenchers from Government parties will also benefit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AZM7DTL53RATTHAPHOZXTNRTTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Opposition have been vehemently opposed to the rule changes and all hell broke lose as the Dáil voted them through on Tuesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJAK6FGDWNBWXA4C7OPUCPH5OM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/miriam-lord-lowry-gives-master-class-in-smug-ingratitude-amid-dail-chaos-over-speaking-time/ \" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/miriam-lord-lowry-gives-master-class-in-smug-ingratitude-amid-dail-chaos-over-speaking-time/ \">Miriam Lord offered an excellent account of the mayhem.</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"T4KSQOCJRBGTROXM46DP63H6DE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Opposition criticised Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\">Verona Murphy</a>’s handling of the proceedings and have now tabled a motion of no confidence in her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6UC4GHQBWVAOREI5BIBTLO4O5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"She has defended herself and had made it clear she will not bow to the pressure from the Opposition.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7DXYFBVRZC5LJIUIMXXQT646U","additional_properties":{},"content":"It will all come to a head next week when the Dáil votes on an expected Government counter-motion of confidence in Ms Murphy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5MUE3S7ERRGE7HMORHPI2DXFBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meanwhile, the Dáil is not legislating to any great degree and none of the important Oireachtas Committees that scrutinise new laws or public spending have been set up.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5VDWA6F76FGIBBQHYMQA5ATWRI","additional_properties":{},"content":"And all this against a backdrop of a feared trade war with the United States and the ongoing housing crisis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XGI2S7CUCNEUNCHLBO4FRRYO2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The row has been going on for more than two months now.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KJ7TXS3WNJEAZHBSJ26TENLWKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"With any luck it will not feature as story of the week again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOHBQ2ORFZFLPBHCIHQKDOMMAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Bust up</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"ALAQOQ2DCFBYPAXEFMSTTDWIYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Amid the hullabaloo in the Dáil was a moment captured on video by People Before Profit TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paul-murphy\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paul-murphy\">Paul Murphy</a>. Needless to say the image of Michael Lowry giving a two-fingered salute to Murphy went viral. Lowry later said he “made an errant gesture under provocation”. He also said it was “not intended to be offensive or to cause offence, and I regret that it may have been seen in such a way.” Whatever the intent it is set to become the defining image of the speaking rights row.","type":"text"},{"_id":"77a269f3-0c0e-4db0-ae47-70ea0d4e2aa8","additional_properties":{},"subtype":"irish-times-video","type":"video"},{"_id":"MFJQ4NIEQJBJHDYR4YXFKRJAFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Banana skin</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"S3UBPNO5DFH3JDMRFR3FSRTDXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\">Donald Trump</a> announced a 25 per cent <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs\">tariff</a> on all foreign-made cars with great fanfare in the Oval Office on Wednesday. However, it is his accompanying comments on the pharmaceutical sector which is hugely important to Ireland that is causing major jitters in Government Buildings here.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W3L7OPFSIRBFPNBEXDLT4FG5UA","additional_properties":{},"content":" “We are going to be doing tariffs on pharmaceuticals in order to bring our pharmaceutical industry back,” <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/03/27/donald-trump-threatens-measures-targeting-irish-pharma-sector-as-he-announces-25-tariffs-on-car-imports/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/03/27/donald-trump-threatens-measures-targeting-irish-pharma-sector-as-he-announces-25-tariffs-on-car-imports/\">Trump told reporters.</a> He added: “We don’t make anything here in terms of drugs, medical drugs, medicines. It’s in other countries – largely made in China, a lot of it made in Ireland. Ireland was very smart. We love Ireland. But we are going to have that.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"67PMJ6FLFFED3EQWKLAINLQYXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe has been to the fore in setting out the risks posed to Ireland by the potential looming trade war. Trump has dubbed next Wednesday – when he is expected to outline a raft of new tariffs – as ‘liberation day’. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/03/27/booze-butter-drugs-prices-and-tax-the-key-risks-for-ireland-as-trumps-tariff-d-day-approaches/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/03/27/booze-butter-drugs-prices-and-tax-the-key-risks-for-ireland-as-trumps-tariff-d-day-approaches/\">It may well bring some serious ramifications for Ireland</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"55DJ3ZHHN5DDBDJX6EUCSPRFTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Winners and Losers</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"H6CFCP2H5VD63KOOZL4OCD36AM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It might stick in the craw for some but it is hard not to see Michael Lowry as a winner this week as he secured the Dail speaking rights he had wanted regardless of the row it caused.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LKFJ5KK3NNGSDADDDIZL37CPAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Losers this week are the senior Trump administration figures in the United States at the centre of the debacle over the security breach that saw a journalist included in a<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/us/2025/03/26/pentagons-hegseth-texted-planned-time-of-targeted-killing-of-yemeni-militant-signal-messages-show/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/us/2025/03/26/pentagons-hegseth-texted-planned-time-of-targeted-killing-of-yemeni-militant-signal-messages-show/\"> Signal messaging app chat about an attack being planned against targets in Yemen</a>. National security adviser Mike Waltz – who unwittingly invited the Atlantic magazine editor Jeffrey Goldberg into the group – and defence secretary Pete Hegseth who shared plans for the bombardment in the chat – have particular reason to be embarrassed, though Hegseth has responded by attacking the journalist.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K5ANMJUAY5G53CYSBLV5XBTCJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">The Big Read</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"HHQYBBPJFVFVDC67P6Q6N3AXFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Harry McGee has taken a look at the Dáil wars that brought proceedings to a standstill and asks what happens next?","type":"text"},{"_id":"SKWHHFOHQJCILD2UZAYJC4MSZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"We also take a look at how Ireland would be affected by a EU-US trade war.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQ7H2OEMGZBUJN6OHZIWVLGC4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Hear here</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"CG2GVEKK2RFDBE7TS6RY62FFXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"During Wednesday’s Inside Politics podcast we examined the speaking rights row, the chaos in Leinster House this week and why the involvement of Lowry in the deal that created the Government is proving a much bigger problem than Michéal Martin anticipated.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3JPZTNXOYRFNZB5SIFTRXARMAE","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-66375","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"DM2ZQTBGQBFPNIZRXB5WDHDWKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"}]},"description":{"basic":"Your essential end-of-week politics catch up"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T12:31:10.413Z","headlines":{"basic":"Political jitters as Trump’s tariff liberation day may bring serious ramifications for Ireland","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"The Politics Fix","url":""}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"Q56RATSYEVAGDPVWE4CHDQVLDM","auth":{"1":"0aac571c093a9952492242ecbc5c1756a652a39a80a2a09cb61973c739b46c52"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/Q56RATSYEVAGDPVWE4CHDQVLDM.png"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/trade-war-jitters-on-merrion-street-while-perpetual-dail-dispute-tests-patience/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"WF34XF5245HCBHJNSRYZVSIVNQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":140,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/958f7405-ceb3-43d9-a791-ebcff98d2faa/versions/1743091711/media/38501adf13f57323ce08f63cbffd0a92_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/an-eyesore-or-a-necessary-tool-public-asked-to-offer-views-on-future-use-of-election-posters/","content_elements":[{"_id":"6TUJRW3KHZCDFGLH4W5CSZ76QE","additional_properties":{},"content":"To some they are an eyesore and to others a necessary tool for turning out the vote, but the public is now being asked to have their say on the future of election posters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AYKJYR65JRFXZMYYNJ2WC2CFMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"An Coimisiún Toghcháin, Ireland’s independent electoral commission, is seeking views from the public to inform research on postering at election time. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HQSGUS65ONH55M2IPVJOH7TMJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last year’s series of referendums and elections saw posters fly up on a massive scale and the commission says they are a “key feature of Ireland’s democratic landscape”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AJDV2FKJW5CCLNU4C32DRDEDUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"It said the use of posters during election campaigns has been the topic of debate in communities, between political scientists, in the media and among the wider public for decades. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BZOI3V65MRHNTGAF7F7BPJOQRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Posters perform a public information and communication function in raising awareness that a vote is about to take place and provide visual clues to voters as to who they will see on the ballot paper,” it said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2FSHOSKNQZD6PCI5GAVZO3WCP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“At the same time, however, there are critics of election posters who call for a reduction or changes in their use or even for their elimination entirely, citing environmental impacts, visual pollution and safety concerns.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DOUXTSICJVHN3JB5K52BTQVQVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The commission’s research will “look at the rules and practices around postering in other countries while taking account of Ireland’s particular electoral and democratic system”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6CKR76W4FE53LBQDSW7F5WFVE","additional_properties":{},"content":"It will also “examine the existing rules in Ireland and how they work, as well as the evidence regarding posters, their objectives and any advantages and disadvantages of their use”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LHJZBYEU5BFJ7ABUHFT5XCMUFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Particular areas of interest in the research are the role of posters as a political communication tool in election campaigns in Ireland and elsewhere compared to other methods of political communication both traditional and online.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FW4ZKUVPFFC5VHG3FJ2GKINJWA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The debate: Is it time to ban election posters?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"A7HK3UI5SNH7ZLRFP5ACHRXRTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"It will also look at how and whether posters impact political engagement and electoral awareness among the electorate “including among people who may be marginalised from the political process”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNSMDYNYUJETFE4YVMRQNKISAQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The research will also examine the environmental and safety impacts of posters. The commission may make recommendations to Government arising from the findings. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7QLRA7LIDJFQZONQU4SUH3O3BM","additional_properties":{},"content":"People who wish to offer their views on election posters can do so through the commission’s <a href=\"https://www.electoralcommission.ie/consultation\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.electoralcommission.ie/consultation\">website</a>, by email or post, with May 9th the deadline for submissions. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"}]},"description":{"basic":"People can make submissions to feed into research on ‘key feature of Ireland’s democratic landscape’"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T16:03:20.766Z","headlines":{"basic":"An eyesore or a necessary tool: Public asked to offer views on future use of election posters","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JAEZGWEU5VGRZMIC7ZW3RSLTT4","auth":{"1":"9dcf1d68fdcd67f582ac0b630416532e7e878ae7c80c06ee00afd998e1e4d42f"},"focal_point":{"x":1875,"y":1126},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JAEZGWEU5VGRZMIC7ZW3RSLTT4.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/an-eyesore-or-a-necessary-tool-public-asked-to-offer-views-on-future-use-of-election-posters/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"2B5IGZOE2VEXVNOBRPN56GMSYY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":245,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/fa8db111-6167-4e13-8256-a1267c6ab9aa/versions/1743089326/media/3dd84dbe7e633b0ffc69540c92ff02e8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/27/hundreds-of-children-had-unnecessary-hip-surgery-at-dublin-hospitals-dail-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"ECN5BF5GL5B2TE2NWCYJYNIH2E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970374},"content":"A draft report into 561 hip surgeries on children since 2021 found 79 per cent of the surgeries at Cappagh hospital and 60 per cent at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/temple-street-hospital/\" target=\"_blank\">Temple Street</a> “did not meet the threshold for surgery”, the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Dáil</a> has heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5LJAW36HMVCL3GOM7Z6BWEHQGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970375},"content":"Sinn Féin’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pearse-doherty/\" target=\"_blank\">Pearse Doherty</a> raised the issue of the audit report, which was carried out after a whistleblower alleged hundreds of hip surgeries on children aged one to seven were carried out unnecessarily.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N5IYTWOHRNDINN6VX2MVBE5QA4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970376},"content":"“According to that audit, 561 children went through these hip surgeries since 2021. The audit shows that 79 per cent of the surgeries at Cappagh and 60 per cent at Temple Street did not meet the threshold for surgeries,” he said. “They were unnecessary.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4XQY572QR5FPJGSSQDVUI7KYEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970377},"content":"The Donegal TD said he had been contacted by a parent whose four-year-old daughter had surgery at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Cappagh. He said they had received a letter a couple of weeks ago from the hospital to inform her of the audit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ECDJMQBJEZBDNEYOMK3CZQDFJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970378},"content":"The woman’s daughter was born prematurely, “facing many challenges in her first weeks of life”. This was followed by treatment for hip dysplasia and resulted in surgery that may not have needed to happen, Mr Doherty said. “She’s sick to her stomach that her daughter might have been operated on unnecessarily,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EZX22EGU5AFDIFKWA7QXD4QL4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970379},"content":"Another family told him “a consultant was telling them that they needed an operation on both hips for their young girl. They thought something was wrong.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"T45FV5BR4FFXDOSDEDPHSTODKM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970380},"content":"He told TDs they sought a private second opinion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FGKHQ5535VFSTES7ZFOETQVS6A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970381},"content":"“They were told not only they did not need the surgery, that the child didn’t even have the condition.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NPOW5D2C3BFVBOS6WBI676Y62Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970382},"content":"The Donegal TD said the issue was reported in the media in July last year. This was occurring less than two years after it came to light that unlicensed springs were implanted into several children at Temple Street Children’s Hospital, “and that scandal is still ongoing”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3XIZSJ5HCFHALHFT35GFJSBN3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970383},"content":"Hiqa to investigate use of unlicensed springs in Temple Street children’s operations","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"DLHX4FXQGJDTVH23S74LU4MIKM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970384},"content":"Mr Doherty added that the draft audit report, completed in January, was now published in full on the Ditch website and claimed “there is not enough urgency in Government that this is what happens over and over and over again”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5HZXLZ262JGZJM7HL4LCD5GTIU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970385},"content":"The whistleblower “further alleged these surgeries were conducted purely for financial gain”, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BTMCDVCENVCJHEUYQNO5LZECCI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970386},"content":"“Has the Government established that the allegations are true? Was some of this motivated by profits? There are hundreds out there that are living a nightmare of worry. Have all of those parents been contacted and crucially, the questions they’re asking is, when will they know if their child was operated on unnecessarily.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIYJ5ZCYWBD73LKNVHFM4GGPKI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970387},"content":"Responding for the Government, Minister for Finance <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paschal-donohoe/\" target=\"_blank\">Paschal Donohoe</a> insisted they were taking the matter very seriously and the clinical audit taking place was “in recognition of the seriousness of this matter”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y4ZBXZPU4VGFDACAJIF6KD4TCA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970388},"content":"Many parents were deeply concerned and raising questions about the need for surgery and the impact of it, and “would have had their trust in our health service and our professionals at least being questioned”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNJLD2SAJJAI7KPZDJTTXAND6Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970389},"content":"He understood the report “is now being looked at and clinicians are providing a final input into it. And that final input will be available to the author of the report very, very shortly if it hasn’t already been shared.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PHH5F56LMFBWHBGLZIYSGR3OBI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970390},"content":"It would be shared with the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/department-of-health/\" target=\"_blank\">Department of Health</a> and with hospitals. At that point the first priority “will be to communicate very clearly with all families”, to “share with them in a transparent and open way the conclusions of this report acknowledging, of course, that the stress, the worry that many face at the moment”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VPGPNJPJXRCUZHQZKC3YFWQX54","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970391},"content":"They would respond to the consequences of any operations that took place. A “core theme” would be to understand why this happened in the first place “and what indeed are the consequences of it”, Mr Donohoe said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X3SBQJBTCNHF3A4YCGFIIAZU5E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970392},"content":"“It’s all about ensuring that any surgical practice that took place during that period was carried out in a way that is consistent with international standards,” he added.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sinn Féin’s Pearse Doherty raises issue of audit sparked by whistleblower allegations"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T15:23:42.427Z","headlines":{"basic":"Hundreds of children had unnecessary hip surgery at Dublin hospitals, Dáil hears","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY","auth":{"1":"350a3118b3a87c501a58b63e23526bd0dc1f5f53b0f2795c3abb825a2bd828ec"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/27/hundreds-of-children-had-unnecessary-hip-surgery-at-dublin-hospitals-dail-hears/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"JOEKSTUAFFERLBNGCXOUMBAYTQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":211,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/84b9af12-dec5-43e0-865c-137ca07c42a3/versions/1743069787/media/a23625f18a5158cc38280300818fa147_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/ceann-comhairles-impartiality-decimated-on-dail-floor-says-sinn-fein-leader/","content_elements":[{"_id":"TZOXVROYERHMROG2J44P6WWEHE","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QK76PMB4CNDXXAVCJB7RSHPXQM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668001},"content":"Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said Sinn Féin and the rest of the Opposition should not get a “veto” on how the Dáil is run.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KKULMYIBKVGDDKEOUZUI2KKE2Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668002},"content":"Speaking in Paris on Thursday, the Fianna Fáil leader said he was “genuinely taken back” by the behaviour of the Opposition during heated exchanges across the Dáil floor earlier this week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CIQUWXMI7BFQTIVJ72RM6KGL4I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668003},"content":"Mr Martin said there was a coordinated and premeditated attempt by Sinn Féin to shout down Government membersduring the latest round of the long running row over Dáil speaking rights earlier this week, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V6DLZBSYEBA4NKFBIBN3DV4HV4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668004},"content":"“That’s a dangerous thing in a democracy, in a parliamentary democracy, if you deliberately shout down, so a person can’t be heard,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NER562PMNZD5DN735CHUCLNB4Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668005},"content":"A motion of no confidence tabled in Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy was “a bit rich”, given Opposition TDs had disrupted proceedings by “roaring and screaming,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RY7OQ3RKSBF5RD2S2P2XDD4FVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668006},"content":"The Dáil could not be run on the basis of “what Sinn Féin thinks is right” and the Opposition did not get a “veto” on how the parliament operates, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOHSVIFYF5CTRNDZCKQZNEWATM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668007},"content":"He said the issue relates to an “extra eight minutes to be shared among 60 TDs on a Wednesday and a Thursday”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBTUNRG2PRC4XFD5WFEENS7SHY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668008},"content":"It was questionable whether the pushback from the Opposition was “justified”, in response to what he said were “modest changes” to Dáil rules.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CIIMMVW3HRGRJBNZDBWNGWP4LI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin has written to the Ceann Comhairle reiterating its view that a report on this week’s disturbances in the Dáil is “deeply flawed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OIGG2A7KBFF4DGQUOHGACVBTIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The party was reacting to the report, commissioned by Verona Murphy from the clerk of the Dáil, which outlined that she had acted in accordance with standing orders on Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FJ6H4OUQSVC3DJJJH3MWI5TWEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin already released a statement criticising the report following its publication on Wednesday evening. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHXJGLHOJVE6VJAJF45ZFXJSMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Supplying a transcript of events and linking to the Dáil’s video archive of events, Sinn Féin’s chief whip Padraig MacLoghlainn told Ms Murphy that while the party accepted the report was “compiled in good faith”, it “is deeply flawed and it does not tally with events in the Dáil chamber on Tuesday 25th March.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"G35EGFOSSNDL3IP2C7S4HLDORA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The party is making a number of technical arguments which it says are of “utmost seriousness” and need to be “urgently addressed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OMYK76CNYNDNDF5S4GGDCG4YGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Firstly, it claims that the Order of Business was not validly passed after Ms Murphy deemed it had been without a vote - despite the party arguing that a call for a vote can be heard from a TD on the video archive. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5THNH4772FGLFDC2O57M25NCFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It also says that the Dáil had returned to order by the time Ms Murphy used her power to cancel the speaking slot immediately before the vote on the Government motion reforming standing orders, which gives effect to the controversial step allowing speaking time for government supporting Independent TDs and coalition party TDs outside of allocated government time in the Dáil. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"M2FVTHN6URBQ3LHSE5YSWI3PGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Finally, Mr MacLochlainn tells Ms Murphy that “in your haste to get the vote through you inadvertently” put an Opposition amendment which itself had not been moved to a vote, rather than the Government motion itself.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5YMERYOXTNCEBIHW4PUFQNM37E","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Thursday morning, the Opposition objected to the inclusion of controversial new speaking time slots for coalition-supporting Independents and Government backbenchers on the Dáil schedule for next week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IFDRAHNNQVD5BJ7UBLYQLMWEFA","additional_properties":{"_id":"XX2BE3ETHVBHTE5EH6BEWNFBCY"},"content":"Verona Murphy going nowhere as Dáil warring factions dig in","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"5QMY3RWGLZAAFOLFOEWIZO6T4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668010},"content":"A meeting of the Dáil’s business committee was held to decide on the Oireachtas schedule for next week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B66PY5JJURDPLLTZNV76QQ5HMQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668011},"content":"Representatives from the Social Democrats, Labour, Sinn Féin and People Before Profit dissented against including a new “other members” slot on the order paper for Wednesday and Thursday next week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2LYA244WNFPFIZX5SQYHKMHFE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668012},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"IAAKKCGMFVD5PKNGRW7WCGHDHQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668013},"content":"The business committee also discussed the ongoing delay to the formation of Oireachtas committees arising from the fallout from the speaking rights row.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q3VGOOLFQZHCXFPRDMMGBSKNBM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668014},"content":"Sources at the meeting said the clerk of the Dáil, Peter Finnegan, said the Oireachtas is ready and waiting to facilitate committee formations but a meeting of the Dáil reform committee is needed first.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RL5KKNTD65AGFFYSYZHLRQ7PUM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668015},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"I6LJEBP3VJG5FFHZPZ5GZMOGEU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668016},"content":"In a statement on Thursday afternoon, Tánaiste Simon Harris ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2F7WXKJNIVHVRLWXZXZQI5EW2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668017},"content":"encouraged Oireachtas members to “reflect on their actions” of recent days, saying scenes in the Dáil this week “have been anything but proportionate”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XHHK5RTLSNC7LLOD4ND5DIHK2E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668018},"content":"“This has gone on too long ... The country needs a functioning Dáil and politicians who are proportionate in their response to disagreement,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CASUH7IHTBBADIXVHMD5OHX27U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668019},"content":"He said the European Union is “entering a time of major uncertainty”, with further US tariff announcements due next week, while Ireland also faces housing shortages and infrastructure deficits.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ISXVZXJQ5JFINGFWTVKPENBODA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668020},"content":"Earlier, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald said the Ceann Comhairle was given a “fair wind” at the role but her impartiality and independence has been “decimated” due to Tuesday’s scenes in the Dáil.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7BATPQHJARCUBCKP5IEX4XD2KM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668021},"content":"A no confidence motion in is being tabled because of a Government formation agreement between Mr Martin, Mr Harris and Michael Lowry, Ms McDonald told RTÉ radio’s Morning Ireland programme.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ED2XJLCY6JFC3DYMZPPDJXUXTM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668022},"content":"She said the Ceann Comhairle’s position was “part and parcel of brokering that deal” and there cannot be a situation where the office holder “pushes through the Government agenda”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y6IZRUHY4FCW5BXKI6NHIE3JBA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668023},"content":"A one-line motion signed by Ms McDonald and the leaders of Labour, Social Democrats, People Before Profit-Solidarity and Independent Ireland states: the “Ceann Comhairle no longer retains the confidence of all members of Dáil Éireann”. It is expected to be debated next Tuesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AJUFFXEARJAIXDPO3IFC5EFDAM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668024},"content":"Ms Murphy has said she will strongly resist the motion, which will likely be defeated as the Government maintains a majority.","type":"text"},{"_id":"d6f6fc12-2330-470b-bc3e-fd96f1422dac","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668025},"subtype":"irish-times-video","type":"video"},{"_id":"SZAY6KY2JRFJ3HXKRDUH3IVZ5I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668026},"content":"In a statement on Wednesday night she said","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIKC63WGWBDL5HT6R6O4ODJOCU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668027},"content":"she “at all times followed the correct procedures of the House and the advice of the impartial officials present”. The Clerk of the Dáil confirmed in a report that proceedings were conducted in accordance with procedures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7PLLUYAMJHOFHKASQVUBG5HK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668028},"content":"The Government will table a countermotion expressing confidence in her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GPGCOW53VJC33A345B3HXDIMLY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668029},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"N6JH6MHCRNDXHBHLEOILIAYKFA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668030},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"CI22BJSCCVFSHK2KUI4P4SKUMM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668031},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"25ND4GB4YZEIVCIZVHL2GXQMEU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668032},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SXSKJYH5VBUZJXAV3VHANCE5E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668033},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"VGQLPV73OJCLNEZ7BDZ7ZALMJQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668034},"content":".","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y3A6647IEVA2XPNT2BASNAXQWE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668035},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"55I6BPUVCRG7LF4AJBTMRNFWK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668036},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"XIGHY5P3JZGU5D7PHYEL2OUJW4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668037},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"K46DHZWP7VGE7CZXVQ33X2NG74","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668038},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"M56HF5N7EBBGPKCRA77YQT6ZUA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668039},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"BW3JF2IMBVFBLPEUZS5CHHCIVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668040},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"AHWHWDGZARC5BDD4VCGDDQ6FJA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668041},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ON3P6RAS3RGFXIKPZ6UKNWBL4I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668042},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"CUNHGEJ5Y5FMDASQ3UED7OZ6KQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668043},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"HYATSHQBYBHYBJ67HZWFMKKT5A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668044},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"3TVWTQIQTJGXPOMEJU2236HVPU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668045},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"AONBABP6G5FEFCCZV4BB3O4NDI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743088668046},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Power"}},"name":"Jack Power"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Vivienne Clarke"}},"name":"Vivienne Clarke"}]},"description":{"basic":"Opposition has objected to inclusion of controversial new speaking time slots for coalition-supporting Independents and Government backbenchers on Dáil schedule"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T14:43:00.447Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ceann Comhairle no confidence motion ‘a bit rich’ given Opposition’s behaviour in Dáil, says Taoiseach","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM","auth":{"1":"1df3d9a06aa9c4794c7dd5812d67e229df9afa7c58bb88f7a448f64127e54c9d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/ceann-comhairles-impartiality-decimated-on-dail-floor-says-sinn-fein-leader/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"AX2ZFZFKONAKNLLICCMTQ3IQSU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":283,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/09cb6382-dbdd-4f0d-a3f5-28e50c061c75/versions/1743060933/media/57869ab21d240655ac7809870bcb69b8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/no-confidence-motion-could-break-speaking-rights-row/","content_elements":[{"_id":"J4AYEUZFPRFTZEVWVUF2FHHOWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Good morning.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZCVQWQLXZEQHGMTKAWN7VBRDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Dáil speaking rights row has rumbled on for more than two months delaying the usual legislative work of the Oireachtas and preventing the establishment of committees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CMEBZRUWSBBOLL7FIRBMFKOCDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The latest twist is <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/ceann-comhairle-verona-murphy-to-face-no-confidence-vote-next-week-as-she-denies-opposition-claims/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/ceann-comhairle-verona-murphy-to-face-no-confidence-vote-next-week-as-she-denies-opposition-claims/\">a motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle Vernona Murphy</a> tabled by the Opposition.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ORILGKNDFZHWLIREO3W7UI2CWE","additional_properties":{},"content":"As Pat Leahy, Jack Horgan-Jones and Harry McGee report in our lead today <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/27/dail-speaking-rights-row-under-fire-verona-murphy-to-resist-opposition-no-confidence-motion/ \" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/27/dail-speaking-rights-row-under-fire-verona-murphy-to-resist-opposition-no-confidence-motion/ \">Ms Murphy is set to strongly resist the move</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J4QZKTHBPVEM5ILH2OGNFTKFCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Ceann Comhairle said she had “at all times followed the correct procedures of the House and the advice of the impartial officials present”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PD6AKO45GBDILDJTI7J2YA4YUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A report prepared by Clerk of the Dáil Peter Finnegan indicated that the Ceann Comhairle had acted properly and in line with her powers under the Dáil’s standing orders <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\">during Tuesday’s disruption in the Chamber</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B43QDA25C5GCJHJMBUHWR445NE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government has confirmed it would table a countermotion expressing confidence in Ms Murphy with Taoiseach Micheál Martin accusing the Opposition of using “undemocratic tactics”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SV3G5TMWLJCCHNPIPK5HAA2X2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"In his analysis <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/26/dail-speaking-rights-row-outcome-of-dispute-turns-on-two-questions/ \" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/26/dail-speaking-rights-row-outcome-of-dispute-turns-on-two-questions/ \">Leahy looks at two questions</a> – can Ms Murphy endure sustained attack? And when the Opposition loses the no-confidence vote, what will its next move be?","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZSGLCLD6ABDZ5K4KACKPHZGLJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the first question he writes that the Wexford TD has “certainly demonstrated considerable toughness” in the past and “it is hard to see the political rationale for a resignation now.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"P2DGGH4OIBF3VMAQHPHUNXVYZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the second question he suggests it is unlikely the Opposition will continue to disrupt proceedings writing that “stopping the work of the Dáil indefinitely is hardly a viable political strategy for the medium term.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RWEGU6TNZRD2PKEH7E6M4ALIPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"As was seen on a number of occasions during the last Dáil votes on confidence, motions can have the effect of breaking the fever of a political controversy and returning things to a more even keel.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKGWM7ROQNE2JEHOFHXFMF4KDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It remains to be seen if that will be the case after next Tuesday’s expected confidence vote on Ms Murphy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YDRHX355AVF7THAOTLZYAZFJ3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, senior Opposition figures have downplayed the prospect of rolling disruption, with three sources saying they believe the damage to the Coalition and Ms Murphy had been done.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JELQWG7JDBBJBPFYX4G43FZ7YQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sources on all sides acknowledge the row had produced a toxic atmosphere around Leinster House.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XK5VQI2J2NGY7B5Y7FLWO4OUF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Best Reads","type":"header"},{"_id":"VOZM4TQXXFBRNBPHCD2VKMV654","additional_properties":{},"content":"Miriam Lord writes that <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/27/miriam-lord-dail-is-a-study-in-stalemate-as-everyone-including-ceann-comhairle-digs-their-heels-in/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/27/miriam-lord-dail-is-a-study-in-stalemate-as-everyone-including-ceann-comhairle-digs-their-heels-in/\">Martin hurled the kitchen sink at his detractors</a>, but the real action will start next week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6QDFEZR3YBG7JGB3KQKX2X34JU","additional_properties":{},"content":"US president Donald Trump has slapped 25 per cent tariffs on car imports <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/03/27/donald-trump-threatens-measures-targeting-irish-pharma-sector-as-he-announces-25-tariffs-on-car-imports/ \" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/03/27/donald-trump-threatens-measures-targeting-irish-pharma-sector-as-he-announces-25-tariffs-on-car-imports/ \">while threatening measures targeting the Irish pharma sector</a>. As our Washington Correspondent Keith Duggan reports, Mr Trump said: “We are going to be doing tariffs on pharmaceuticals in order to bring our pharmaceutical industry back.” He added: “We don’t make anything here in terms of drugs, medical drugs, medicines. It’s in other countries – largely made in China, a lot of it made in Ireland. Ireland was very smart. We love Ireland. But we are going to have that”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4ENNUVVILJANHOS5UUYAFEOPVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Elsewhere on the front page Conor Lally reports that a Spanish-Irish investigation into the Dublin-headquartered drugs gang known as The Family has resulted <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/03/27/spanish-police-find-irish-family-drugs-gang-in-three-regions-seize-30m-in-drugs-four-trucks/ \" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/03/27/spanish-police-find-irish-family-drugs-gang-in-three-regions-seize-30m-in-drugs-four-trucks/ \">in the seizure of drugs valued at about €30 million</a> and the arrests of 20 people.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PMNNHOCS2NARRACCEABAMCWUTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Eoin Burke-Kennedy has a story about how rent pressure zones (RPZs) have been “effective” in controlling rents <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/03/27/rent-pressure-zones-effective-in-controlling-rents-but-have-triggered-fall-off-in-supply-says-esri/ \" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/03/27/rent-pressure-zones-effective-in-controlling-rents-but-have-triggered-fall-off-in-supply-says-esri/ \">but have led to a fall in the supply of private rental accommodation</a>. That’s according to a study by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KWWPKG7ZSJB3ZNYDFDO45CXYGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Playbook","type":"header"},{"_id":"76TFJLIGYREM7EH6EA7Z7F2GSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dáil proceedings begin at 9am with Minister for Higher Education James Lawless taking parliamentary questions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WEW22RISPRHKLFFBRCTBZ3H3DA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Next up is Minister for Rural and Community Development Dara Calleary from 10:30am.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UAABHCWFJ5DJ7NNWA6ZO4ZCWVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Leaders’ Questions is at noon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"METOTQHZCZDVZN2FZZLMXV57IU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin will introduce a Bill designed to prevent domestic water charges being introduced in future at 1:04pm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UTAQVK2DO5GE7DZT7L4VWSVNIQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Government business in the afternoon will be a second stage debate on the Social Welfare (Bereaved Partner’s Pension) Bill 2025 from 1:49pm. The proposed legislation aims to extend eligibility for the widow’s and widower’s pensions to surviving partners in non-marital families. You can <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/04/plans-to-extend-widows-and-widowers-pensions-to-non-marital-surviving-partners-to-go-to-cabinet/ \" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/04/plans-to-extend-widows-and-widowers-pensions-to-non-marital-surviving-partners-to-go-to-cabinet/ \">read our previous coverage here</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NMVSKC5GSJCJ5PE7D3YTTMOPN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"TDs have an opportunity to raise Topical Issues from 5:35pm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JUOCZTAY3FFZNJUI7CTCXMIPLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"See the full <a href=\"https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/detailed-schedule/?tab=dail \" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/detailed-schedule/?tab=dail \">Dáil</a> and <a href=\"about:blank\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"ttps://www.oireachtas.ie/en/detailed-schedule/?tab=seanad\">Seanad</a> schedules.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MSGNUVV7MRBPLEK65B6I265LYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i>Sign up for </i><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/media/2023/11/07/stay-informed-with-push-alerts-from-the-irish-times-delivered-straight-to-your-phone/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i>Politics push alerts</i></a><i> and have the best news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone</i>","type":"text"},{"_id":"PRRACAOWINGB3ILIO2IVOOBMRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i>Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up for the </i><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/newsletters/inside-politics-newsletter/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/newsletters/inside-politics-newsletter/\"><i>Inside Politics</i></a><i> newsletter to get our politics team’s take direct to your inbox.</i>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWCEU33BIBFD5MOQKYUIBDMLKM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"WZ5GV55IDVGEXLUM4PKTMILQMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"}]},"description":{"basic":"Previous motions have brought proceedings back to an even keel but it remains to be seen if next week’s will do the same"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T07:35:16.578Z","headlines":{"basic":"No confidence motion could break speaking rights row","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Inside Politics Newsletter"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ","auth":{"1":"0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG"}},"subtype":"editors-note","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/no-confidence-motion-could-break-speaking-rights-row/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"RX2A4SE4PJCI7KC45E7O4LVFW4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":255,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/7e513d4b-9dee-417a-a74a-fe8bddf83fb9/versions/1743026205/media/6e6291ad505a720c2855113df536f51c_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/dail-speaking-rights-row-under-fire-verona-murphy-to-resist-opposition-no-confidence-motion/","content_elements":[{"_id":"5CRGRZRVDZEP5BZDMFROHMR5WI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/editorials/2025/03/26/the-irish-times-view-on-verona-murphy-confidence-ebbs-in-a-house-divided/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/editorials/2025/03/26/the-irish-times-view-on-verona-murphy-confidence-ebbs-in-a-house-divided/\">Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy </a>will strongly resist an <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/26/dail-speaking-rights-row-outcome-of-dispute-turns-on-two-questions/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/26/dail-speaking-rights-row-outcome-of-dispute-turns-on-two-questions/\">Opposition motion of no confidence</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"24PD3AV22NE6DBUD3SNPNYYF2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"She indicated this last night as the Government pledged to back her after further fiery exchanges in the Dáil.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JVBQAP3RDFD37H5OSQMQEOVYMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The row over <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/regional-independent-group/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/regional-independent-group/\">speaking rights for Independent TDs </a>who support the Coalition will now extend into a further week, after Opposition parties put down an unprecedented joint motion of no confidence in the Ceann Comhairle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UM4RN24UPNGRPIUAUVBYOXGOHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dáil speaking rights row: Outcome of dispute turns on two questions","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"MXJ6SZ65AZCTTEB6F4EGFBAJ5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"A one-line motion signed by Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald, Labour leader Ivana Bacik, Social Democrats acting leader Cian O’Callaghan, People Before Profit-Solidarity leader Richard Boyd-Barrett and Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins — and published yesterday afternoon — states: the “Ceann Comhairle no longer retains the confidence of all members of Dáil Éireann”. It is expected to be debated next Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYGKKWZCKJBZHO2I5C4IWKIMSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy responded, saying she had “loyally, scrupulously, and impartially adhered to my solemn undertakings made to the House, and through the House to the Irish people”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q246SSPERJCCRACFRQLRAZ6HHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Ceann Comhairle said she had “at all times followed the correct procedures of the House and the advice of the impartial officials present”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OPXF72NIINCIXOFDXZAUAD63Z4","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-47566","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CAEVIZCWPBG3LBB5YMG7JTFHAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government also confirmed it would table a countermotion expressing confidence in Ms Murphy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"X5UMZLJBTZAM3FTYDLKBKVYHSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach Micheál Martin accused the Opposition of using “undemocratic tactics”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JVVEJ64QHBEVPFIY65QGXFSMPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It beggars belief that Sinn Féin, who roared during Leaders’ Questions in a clearly organised manner, are now accusing the Ceann Comhairle of bias and failing to follow procedures,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7V2D4NDQBFDPHBM2NCUZLCGMEI","content":"<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"ro\" dir=\"ltr\">Statement by An Ceann Comhairle, Verona Murphy TD. <a href=\"https://t.co/w82LvN7HN5\">pic.twitter.com/w82LvN7HN5</a></p>— Houses of the Oireachtas - Tithe an Oireachtais (@OireachtasNews) <a href=\"https://twitter.com/OireachtasNews/status/1904963022021329069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">March 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src=\"https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>","type":"raw_html"},{"_id":"UVOMOOU4AFDNPJFJAFIH5OCU3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"A report prepared by Clerk of the Dáil Peter Finnegan was also published and indicated that the Ceann Comhairle had acted properly and in line with her powers under the Dáil’s standing orders.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NWHYSUMUGZE4BL6VPOU6Q3RPII","additional_properties":{},"content":"It concluded: “The operation of the Dáil is only possible if members accept the Chair’s authority and rulings. Ultimately, the Constitution provides that all decisions are made by a majority of the members present and voting. Notwithstanding the unprecedented level of dissent yesterday [Tuesday], once a matter is put to the House, the only remedy for those dissenting is though the voting process in the House.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z2COCFK6BFGL7OHMLRYWX352ZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach Thomas Byrne demanded to know if the Opposition would accept the result of next week’s vote or if they would continue to disrupt the Dáil. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MD4HASEDA5DYJMKWHMU7ZINNNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"But senior Opposition figures downplayed the prospect of rolling disruption, with three sources saying they believe the damage to the Coalition and Ms Murphy had been done. Sources on all sides acknowledge the row had produced a toxic atmosphere around Leinster House.","type":"text"},{"_id":"d6f6fc12-2330-470b-bc3e-fd96f1422dac","additional_properties":{},"subtype":"irish-times-video","type":"video"},{"_id":"WVIM5DYJCBHGTHLOCKYWNF4ZEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Both sides were entrenched on Wednesday evening, with the Opposition also examining in detail the decisions taken by Ms Murphy from the chair on Tuesday as the row unfolded. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HPW6JQJUTZEAFOGALEMTIZNQ7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Labour Party and Social Democrats were said to be taking legal advice as to whether she had decided correctly that the Order of Business was agreed without a vote and whether an amendment to the original Government motion had been voted on rather than the motion itself. Sinn Féin were also examining both issues. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SI47EAMTZNHG3KDHAFHMQHCCJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"There was also dissatisfaction with Tipperary North Independent TD Michael Lowry’s two-fingered gesture to People Before Profit-Solidarity TD Paul Murphy as he filmed Mr Lowry, which was widely circulated. One Fine Gael backbencher said Mr Lowry had “done us an enormous disservice”. However, that representative added: “There’s no walking away from Lowry now.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JZUVMSUMFRHRHE437L3D56KFCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Irish Times view on Verona Murphy: confidence ebbs in a house divided","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"6NNPUALQQVAHFKPPKHL6EVOEHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Lowry also issued a statement saying he had not intended any offence and regretted any upset.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZZAKR5PGOVEZ5LNR43JNE3AW6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"It will be the first such motion tabled against a Ceann Comhairle. In 2009, Labour leader Eamon Gilmore told then Ceann Comhairle John O’Donoghue he would be tabling a motion of no confidence in him. However, Mr O’Donoghue resigned from the office before any debate started. The then Kerry TD had been embroiled in controversy over his expenses for air travel, limousines, and hotels when travelling abroad.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"}]},"description":{"basic":"Debate and vote scheduled to oust Ceann Comhairle who has ‘impartially adhered to my solemn undertakings ... through the House to the Irish people’ "},"display_date":"2025-03-27T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘I at all times followed correct procedures’: Verona Murphy to resist Opposition no-confidence motion","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"32WRN7ZKFBASBO7XH4TUFUIXMI","auth":{"1":"34fb5296b9753d2a501160df706f3c9df6a2a4fefdd4d29a06464219f9c33c22"},"focal_point":{"x":491,"y":315},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/32WRN7ZKFBASBO7XH4TUFUIXMI.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Oireachtas"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/dail-speaking-rights-row-under-fire-verona-murphy-to-resist-opposition-no-confidence-motion/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"HCLA5F3FLZAXNLXUMTTKCBL7IA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":261,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6df741a1-918f-4b17-999b-592c690c8f40/versions/1743020565/media/e2474c226d79165cde27b9cc607c31bf_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/ceann-comhairle-verona-murphy-to-face-no-confidence-vote-next-week-as-she-denies-opposition-claims/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FP4MPYMRHJA2RMS6EO3EEYX6OM","additional_properties":{},"content":"A motion of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\">no confidence</a> in Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\">Verona Murphy</a> will be debated in the Dáil next Tuesday after a second day of rancour over the bitter row about speaking rights.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ENWYHG54RNG2ZN2KADJO62SMUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The matter dominated Leaders’ Questions as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\">Sinn Féin</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> claimed the Ceann Comhairle “bulldozed” through the rules to get the Government’s speaking rights plan over the line.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TV7QWUDZFZH37EGQGRU3OULNRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She was the first of the three opposition leaders to call on Ms Murphy to reflect on her position, which she described as “untenable”, telling her “you need to go”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QLUANX4JTNFOLIIYYL7HFWGQLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She spoke ahead of a formal motion of no confidence issue later in the day by five opposition party leaders.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LQXLPYOGU5HKJGLQDASSTAZXOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael Lowry gives masterclass in smug ingratitude amid Dáil chaos over speaking time","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"E4V3RGQW5FDDFN33F4GAAUX4YE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms McDonald’s comments were echoed by Labour leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik\">Ivana Bacik</a> who said “regrettably, in our view the position of the Ceann Comhairle is no longer tenable due to the Government’s insistence on placating the Lowry group”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RBLD2VLS6BHFLF4S6RBBMQ45BE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Acting Social Democrats leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan\">Cian O’Callaghan</a> also called on Ms Murphy to reflect on her position. He said she should represent all parties but that had not happened.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TVMOIZRKMZFJTLAK6I22N6VRFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> insisted however that any motion would be resisted and “met by steel on this side of the House”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LCYEJPDZ75EL7FNUMVWJCOXHNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said Sinn Féin “will not run the House” and they were promoting a “destructive model” of opposition. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NSACMEPKJBA4JG5QTN4A4BHP4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"While Ms Murphy <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\">issued a statement</a> later “categorically” rejecting “unfounded allegations” of partiality and collusion and insisting she intended to remain in her position, she did not comment in the Dáil on the matter.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MKVYALD7JREGDL6RIZBH4KT4OA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government has confirmed it will table a counter motion of confidence in Ms Murphy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YEGV5JD3OVDO7PZTCU7ZPZJIIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Taoiseach also accused the Opposition of employing “undemocratic” tactics in the Dáil.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FN3HCLGZ2ZF43EK52TSJ3Q4NTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement on Wednesday evening he said: “It beggars belief that Sinn Fein in particular, who shouted and roared during Leaders Questions in a clearly organised manner, and who refused point blank to cooperate, are now accusing the Ceann Comhairle of bias and failing to follow procedures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DM432O55V5ACBND7U57XITWH7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Clerk of the Dáil has confirmed proceedings were conducted in accordance with procedures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A7ZT4QXUEJBHHDTCRZLRUC5MXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin later disputed the report by the Clerk of the Dáil, claiming its findings were “deeply flawed”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSXHXRQ6M5AM3FY5WNHPBV4UDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The report by Peter Finnegan was published on Wednesday and concluded that Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy had acted in line with the Dáil’s standing orders when overseeing the business of the Dáil during the raucous and chaotic scenes in the Chamber on Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ET2ZNKDSWJGMTPHGNXMYNPNRBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a response issued last night, Sinn Féin said the report did not tally with events in the Dáil on Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YAUGZ5PFJZAT7F5MZWPVBEHBBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The party claimed that such was the determination of Ms Murphy to push matters through that no vote was taken on the Order of Business even though a vote was clearly called.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MVEFPJWG7ZFMVC3ZDZQ6BB77MA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The party also claimed that the Ceann Comhairle appeared to have “inadvertently moved the Opposition amendment to proposed rule change and not the motion put forward by the Government.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"S2QQN53QGNGRPF4X53QSVHZQUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Separately both the Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil parliamentary parties offered unanimous support to Ms Murphy at meetings on Wednesday night. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JRNUU2YENFD7FGZ3QWQH22HPKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the Fianna Fáíl meeting, some TDS and Senators criticised the “two-finger” gesture by Michael Lowry in the Chamber on Tuesday saying it was completely inappropriate. There was criticism too of what was described as the barracking of the opposition towards Ms Murphy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y6SJI6AOVBFXZBBIHDG6FMBO3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fine Gael deputy leader Helen McEntee told her party meeting that the Opposition had followed an orchestrated plan to shut down a democratically elected majority Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OPKQTLHFIFEWLKL2VNTTODEKTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"McEntee also said any motion of no confidence in the Ceann Comhairle would be countered with a Confidence motion from the Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OUWNA65UKZCNJB3ING3T57DV2U","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YNRHUKGWKBFUXJKWVUI7WTWSZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier in the Dáil, Ms McDonald accused the Taoiseach of taking a “sledgehammer” to the rules, assisted by the Ceann Comhairle. “The person responsible for safeguarding the Dáil’s democratic processes led the charge on behalf of the Government’s agenda.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YFK5DGZ7QZDVNMWOJVREKYVB3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"But Mr Martin said it was Ms McDonald who “tries to import into this Chamber the loud hailer politics of the street” and from “the very get-go” the Opposition “has made the Ceann Comhairle’s life impossible”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2VL3Q7KV2FBSHO2ISCTJZXOWYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Bacik claimed the Government was ramming through a “contrived arrangement” for a “sham opposition”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6BJUHKWZYVBPJMLSUJZNM7MBVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said two fingers had been shown to the public. It was “deeply wrong” and “deeply disrespectful” of Independent TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\">Michael Lowry</a> to<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\"> give the two fingers</a> and the Taoiseach should get him to apologise.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJLK7R5AWRGORKZHBX4DXJRZZ4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WIGIRWI5JVFNFPMLZERCX7X6WY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She also said Ms Murphy should reflect on her position and if not, her party had no option but to take a position of no confidence in her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JT4EYUM5CFBPLCGE6JMENXG5SM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin said anybody who used two fingers in the House to another TD was wrong and that Mr Lowry should apologise. But he said it was also wrong for TDs to be waving cameras in the faces of other deputies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FC56CMWNZJASHIEM5VL5XO44CA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr O’Callaghan repeated calls for the Taoiseach to “come clean” on what deal he had done with Mr Lowry as the Government was “muddying the waters” by attempting to show the Independents as opposition.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7Y6XDYEIVRG3VNFO4SHZXW7QJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"But the Taoiseach rounded on him saying “you trot out a line” laced with “dark stuff” and “innuendo” about a deal “and that is smear stuff”. He insisted “my motivation is stable Government”, but the Opposition’s approach was “feigned outrage”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQ5AL7PQB5DCPARRV5XHBK6XPI","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-4741","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"EPX4LFHXUNBPRH4MKWBX5ATYPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Solidarity TD Ruth Coppinger said comments about misogyny were deeply cynical “coming from one of the most male-dominated” Governments in the world.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UT2IJ6ULSZBXTKPKMMUPYN5XNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"She added that Mr Lowry gave two fingers and then “gaslit the public that he hadn’t actually done it”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"}]},"description":{"basic":"Bitter row over speaking rights dominated Dáil for second day as three opposition leaders called for Ms Murphy’s resignation"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T23:00:13.623Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy to face no-confidence vote next week as she denies Opposition claims","native":"Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy to face no-confidence vote in Dáil next Tuesday"},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ","auth":{"1":"0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/ceann-comhairle-verona-murphy-to-face-no-confidence-vote-next-week-as-she-denies-opposition-claims/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"CF4DIY2BUVGFFFSN4JW6WOV4CI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":233,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5d0b7664-eb52-4adc-8496-e778cbb78115/versions/1743020176/media/478c7de1bf37d54e94ebbca67bdcddeb_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/26/dail-speaking-rights-row-outcome-of-dispute-turns-on-two-questions/","content_elements":[{"_id":"WAKFPFVG5FCMXK3RYEOZHSZOAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The scene is set for a showdown between Government and Opposition via a <a href=\"\" rel=\"\" title=\"\">motion of no-confidence</a> in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/podcasts/inside-politics/opposition-loses-confidence-in-verona-murphy-as-the-lowry-deal-haunts-government/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/podcasts/inside-politics/opposition-loses-confidence-in-verona-murphy-as-the-lowry-deal-haunts-government/\">Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy</a>, due to be debated and voted on next week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FMPGMKI2EZASHC4QLTEYGDDPGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"After Tuesday’s riotous Dáil exchanges, Opposition leaders made it clear on Wednesday their objections to the changes in the Dáil’s rules remain as strong as ever, but they will be focused on the Ceann Comhairle. Her role in pushing through the changes – in the face of sustained attempts to force adjournments of the Dáil by making it ungovernable – has meant she is now in the eye of the storm. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Taoiseach Micheál Martin</a>, meanwhile, has made it clear the Government intends to draw a line in the sand at the Ceann Comhairle. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"L6VBT7IZHVERRD5X65HKVAYCHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"There are two principal uncertainties that will decide the trajectory of the row and its ultimate resolution. First, will Murphy’s appetite for the fight she now faces remain as strong as her statement on Wednesday night suggests? In it, she categorically rejected allegations of partiality and “collusion”, adding she intends to continue in her post.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SE57UEOZBZCAFOCSBS4MHOSFFQ","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-85198","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"FUDMTJL2RRBRLPNQT3X2UY7R44","additional_properties":{},"content":"Previously, it was generally accepted that the Ceann Comhairle had to enjoy the confidence of both sides of the House. But Government figures say those old unwritten rules have changed. When the Opposition resorts to planned and orchestrated disruption of the Dáil, shouting down the chair and Taoiseach, then, they say, it is clear the civilised conventions of the Oireachtas are no longer in operation. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"23TMOYJQFJF5ZJANUWO7LJI7UM","additional_properties":{},"content":"So, the Government will back Murphy to the hilt. Martin seems especially determined to resist what he considers a new and hyper-aggressive Opposition, especially from <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\">Sinn Féin</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ILOOBPNHUBDT7IHR4DDXK2BJ6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Will Murphy stick it out? She has certainly demonstrated considerable toughness in the past, weathering expulsion from <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael/\">Fine Gael </a>and coming back to take and hold a seat in Wexford. If she has sometimes seemed ill at ease in the chair, it is hard to see the political rationale for a resignation now.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZTGS3NH7RFQ3IUIE52X46ZXKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The second question is what will the Opposition do when it loses – as it must, given the Dáil numbers – the vote of no confidence? Will it continue to disrupt proceedings?","type":"text"},{"_id":"ETFM3RQAZJEXZCF7KO5UJGI3HQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"That seems unlikely: stopping the work of the Dáil indefinitely is hardly a viable political strategy for the medium term. Even senior Opposition figures acknowledge this. They say if she continues in the chair, she will do so with her authority shredded. That may be true, but notional. It is unclear what it will mean in practice, bar further occasional outbreaks of disorder. It is perhaps more likely that the Dáil settles down in an uneasy cold war with everyone glowering at one another. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"77a269f3-0c0e-4db0-ae47-70ea0d4e2aa8","additional_properties":{},"subtype":"irish-times-video","type":"video"},{"_id":"5U4JMTZMXVBGHGZC6PV5B5HIQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"For many people, the overarching question will be why the Government is prepared to go to such lengths for Murphy, but also for Tipperary North Independent TD Michael Lowry. Despite Martin’s uncompromising stance, there is significant unease on the benches behind him about this.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PQSQE45C7ZGG5LP7L3PCGTK4AY","additional_properties":{},"content":"There is not as much of a mystery as people think, though. Lowry’s advice to his fellow Independents has been that they need the profile of Dáil appearances. Consequently, it was part of the agreement when the Coalition was formed. Sure, it is not in the programme for government. But not everything that was agreed on is in that agenda. Martin will stick to the deal because he wants to and because he can. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4ND7DYAERFERHO6PTMBMATNLHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Perhaps the enduring result of all this may be a poisonous political atmosphere in Leinster House. If so, given what may be coming down the tracks for the Republic – from the Trump tariffs to the EU rearming agenda – that may herald a bruisingly divisive political era.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Explainer: Can Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy endure sustained attack? And when the Opposition loses the no-confidence vote, what will its next move be?"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T20:11:12.063Z","headlines":{"basic":"Verona Murphy’s survival as Ceann Comhairle hinges on two questions","native":"Analysis: Verona Murphy’s survival as Ceann Comhairle hinges on two questions"},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"LJSNYTBVUNFSDLFHU5HXD7L7ZI","auth":{"1":"471642a532a5707176a6456c70103f82a769422f3f7f35f85db72b0e909d43bc"},"focal_point":{"x":2567,"y":839},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/LJSNYTBVUNFSDLFHU5HXD7L7ZI.jpg"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/26/dail-speaking-rights-row-outcome-of-dispute-turns-on-two-questions/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"W5X657NOIFE65LZ4Q6XUHICRC4","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/","content_elements":[{"_id":"CP5DBOWJ35DXVH6DPM47IH7G3M","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742979865208},"id":"timestamp-81941","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"F36LLZKM55HWRFGXFGMDHR5FD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASEPSIN6JFFJ5K5MEI6DD5CJJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Opposition leaders will be meeting this morning to decide what their collective response will be in response to how Ceann Comhairle handled matters in the Dáil yesterday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SAR42TBKNB7DGPKERYWUYSQWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/\">As Harry McGee and Pat Leahy reported this morning</a>, they stopped short last night of tabling a motion of no confidence in Verona Murphy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LHGW4ONNXRETNAHELTVXGCR56U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dáil proceedings are due to get started shortly, with topical issues to begin at 9.12am. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WJE74UXDDREZVKZV6KG4PSW3LE","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742979979942},"id":"timestamp-55201","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"FT7OJGAM25H5DIQ4GEPBJORZRY","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"4WQ7DOI2SFFADERQPJGOISRRKI","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742980230446},"id":"timestamp-59252","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7OYDPTKTDBG3FPKKWJ7U7OGM4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"There is one image that is dominating the front pages today – that is of Independent TD Michael Lowry giving the two fingers to PBP TD Paul Murphy in the Dáil on Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5C5UVGBIWVDG5AHMYSYTNAHU44","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Lowry said he was merely “beckoning” the Dublin South-West TD “to sit down”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XI2HPFN7WJANPGYU55BEOFXGU4","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742980678982},"id":"timestamp-68753","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WVQ4JI4C3RBAVIMPAPKDJNSBKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Dáil has resumed this morning, with Fine Gael TD raising a topical issue on Ryevale House in Co Kildare. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NALXK4EBWZBZPJTQZY6YBKDSEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Neville spoke of how it was good to see proceedings return to proper form after what happened yesterday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2GBGMZKE5NFO3EYAFIXQBRNUP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"There is a scattering of Government TDs in the chamber for topical issues, according to political editor Pat Leahy, with just one Opposition TD – Gary Gannon of the Social Democrats. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"R5DUDUGCT5B2HPKIF3FAW65RZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy is not in the chair, with Fine Gael’s David Maxwell overseeing business. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QOGKEDME4ZDQLEZJF4UHG7YA6A","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742980990293},"id":"timestamp-56328","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"UVEHPF2I5RHV5N2EKJQLV7NFUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking on RTÉ radio this morning, Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik said it was “a mess of the Government’s own making”, Vivienne Clarke reports.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DOEV26JHYNCE5CTIPBOT2B7KTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Bacik said that there was difficulty among the Opposition in maintaining confidence “in a Ceann Comhairle who moved to deem the Order of Business agreed when there had been no vote call despite clear articulations of dissent from Opposition”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BXGTIZ5UIFAMJCZZ7ZMSLHAZVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That is unprecedented,” she said. Ms Bacik said the abiding image of yesterday was Michael Lowry giving two fingers to the Opposition, adding “certainly what it felt like yesterday in the chamber was that the Ceann Comhairle was steamrollering through business and that I think is a very difficult and it’s a very serious matter”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ARJMIQZGTBHVPOVG7NSXKOFGU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Certainly the Ceann Comhairle, under standing orders, is obliged to apply the rules and procedures in an impartial and fair manner so we do now I think have to take very seriously our concerns about yesterday,” she told Morning Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BWJQXK537NG73MVY5FKKFMUP2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve looked back at the transcript already but again as I want to speak with others this morning. We’re conscious this is a big issue to look at, is confidence in the Ceann Comhairle, and we’ll certainly be taking every sounding on that before we come to a conclusion.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MKJDYCTOLFEANF5X5Z23E7VMUU","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742981422411},"id":"timestamp-59764","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"B27DRPDNENES3JJNO47TMBJRZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Vivienne Clarke reports:","type":"text"},{"_id":"PLQH5NOCXBAWFMGJJMHWJ336D4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister of State and Independent TD Sean Canney has said “this is not about Michael Lowry, it’s about democracy” when questioned about the speaking rights row on RTÉ radio this morning. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6B3ZURNZPZA73KOKTKQUJFJLBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"When questioned about the two-finger gesture made by Mr Lowry, Mr Canney responded: “If I would be quite honest, the combined Opposition yesterday gave the two fingers to democracy. That’s what happened yesterday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W4LSS2QMUZA3TLI2QMV7ALZUQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking on Morning Ireland, Mr Canney added: “This is not about two fingers. This is about the fact that we have people elected to the Dáil; we have a majority in the Dáil and what we need to do is get on with the business. It appeared that the Opposition did not know what they wanted.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"45B34PC6TBHWZNQOEFPQSCUAF4","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742981692012},"id":"timestamp-41668","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"XZM4RPXT25CTZDQZHIXJH6BCGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Minister for Transport, Climate, Environment and Energy Darragh O’Brien has described the disruption in the Dáil on Tuesday as “despicable”.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"WZ74OBGTLZEOJKEE7FO2XAQ6MM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve never seen anything like it and I’ve been in the Dáil since 2007. Whether people disagree with a stance or a change in standing orders, which happens regularly, every Dáil would have reform, would have changes to structures. But the behaviour yesterday was just absolutely totally and utterly outrageous,” he told Newstalk Breakfast on Wednesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KN3NSEQN3BFWNM54I5DLDABRFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Some of the comments that were shouted across the chamber, from the Opposition I might add, all from the Opposition and particularly from Sinn Féin and it was co-ordinated and it was planned.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"KJUESMH2IJCADEKI4MLFI4Z454","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Fianna Fáil TD said “unquestionably” the Opposition “had planned this, that they would try to bring about maximum disruption to the business of the House”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EPJC3MXSNZDZDA5OADFYECIG6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We have many very serious issues for our people to deal with,” he added. “We have changes in the geopolitical landscape. We’ve tariffs looming. We’ve got to protect our economy, our people, and our jobs. And what I saw yesterday, frankly, just as a citizen, if you leave it aside as being a TD or a Minister, I was absolutely disgusted.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"VKLAXQIAD5BMHL6TTBXCKNJTSQ","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742981795929},"id":"timestamp-40418","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"QVUS46FV75GOLACJHRJKQ3ZAVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Opposition leaders are meeting this morning to decide on a no-confidence motion in Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy but there is a general expectation around Leinster House that a motion will be put down, according to political editor Pat Leahy. </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYT2QYQVBRCU5BT2AG4IHFATL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, there is also a feeling on the Government side at least that it should be fought. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DFYPHICI3ZE5ZF7UBBQK5AXGEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"After all the Government has the numbers to win a vote. Previously it would have been generally accepted that if the Ceann Comhairle lost the confidence of the Opposition, he or she would have to resign. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QWDWROXRKNCF3EP66Y2EB5JL5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"But now there is a sense that the rules of engagement have changed – yesterday’s scenes in the chamber were unprecedented, and some Government sources now say that it is clear the old conventions don’t apply any more – and that works two ways.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YNF4DYOEVBFOROECIXBFGKZSIQ","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742982137167},"id":"timestamp-4087","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"UNTDCGOEF5DY7BMIJOQX3F265A","additional_properties":{},"content":"In case you missed it, Miriam Lord’s piece on how Michael Lowry gave a masterclass in smug ingratitude amid Dáil chaos over speaking time can be read <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/miriam-lord-lowry-gives-master-class-in-smug-ingratitude-amid-dail-chaos-over-speaking-time/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/miriam-lord-lowry-gives-master-class-in-smug-ingratitude-amid-dail-chaos-over-speaking-time/\">here</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3XADU2DVPVGUVG2SUQMHM3S6GI","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742982323252},"id":"timestamp-11148","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"R427IMY4AZAJZMLYI627OI2JU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>It’s business as usual in the Dáil chamber at the moment. Fine Gael Cavan-Monaghan TD David Maxwell is in the chair with five TDs present, reports parliamentary correspondent Marie O’Halloran.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"J5LG4AMYWRHGVIWXWFXXLXNK3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The row over speaking rights is not expected to ramp up again until Leaders’ Questions at .","type":"text"},{"_id":"H3Y7RKDSRVH37AZF62H4NOA44E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The House is currently dealing with topical issues, matters of the day of interest to deputies are raised where individual Ministers, predominantly Ministers of State, respond.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NH2OEL4ZHBFO3FFGJEXJZG6FVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is normal practice that the Ceann Comhairle does not chair the topical issues session and a number of backbench TDs from all parties stand in for Verona Murphy and Leas-Cheann Comhairle John McGuinness.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4RAGJHW7JAXJKKLV3TRLUR22I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Five TDs are present, the minimum number required for a quorum. Normally only the TDs asking and the Minister responding are present, but because Opposition TDs started calling for a quorum, which delayed proceedings, the Government has drafted in backbenchers to be present to ensure no disruption.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ZP2J66CQJHQHEO3UF6BHXLOTE","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742983159987},"id":"timestamp-66317","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"T52MRRFCZ5CHHMQVP7YLBZAJ7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the Dáil, Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon began his topical issue with reference to the row by saying the Government was attempting to restrict “my ability to come in and speak for my constituency”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZZIUHAX2JASJKE6MFGSB4FOUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He highlighted the lack of funding for primary schools in Dublin’s inner city, Marie O’Halloran reports. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"W25HMYDYCNA2VOWQFM4EFYIQZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the schools including St Lawrence O’Toole and Rutland Street primary school in the heart of the inner city and dealing with very complex needs but are worried about “simply keeping the lights on”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FAORCED5ZJDFXELXYHSPD4WQZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"JTU5RTNXLFEB7NT22ONJKA3UWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Clare Sinn Féin TD Donna McGettigan highlighted the issue of stalking of female students on university campuses.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZBBOZFWBCNAM5MEHGAWCOBBEA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said there were “shocking stories of young, female students being attacked, abused, followed and harassed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7JVFV4BBZNDFPBYTYHFRD3H23Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Young women did not feel safe on the street, in college or even online. They face “catcalling, stalking, spiking and, in the worst cases, assault”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LX4YMTCVGREARBS5Z6GY3P32PM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Her party colleague Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell highlighted the case of one woman living on a university campus who was targeted by a WhatsApp group of 200 young men.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WZY6ZX53PNDWNFBEGGTORX5BCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Their abuse included mass chanting outside her college accommodation and yoghurt being left on her door handles.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEDOBAB5XJC2NLKY5OOPXIX2EI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Further Education James Lawless said that what was taking place was “abhorrent, unacceptable and shameful”. The Minister who had steered Coco’s Law through the Oireachtas said he would act on the issue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5X7M5C3N5ZAYNI5OWNUO4EGZZE","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742984623383},"id":"timestamp-579","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"TRK3VCXMPRBCFL7MVVDISBXOO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Opposition leaders are meeting this morning but in the meantime, a senior source in one Opposition party said it is their assessment that a motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy is very likely, Jack Horgan-Jones reports. </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"KMQXUVC6HZA3PIBLCJTRVOADOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Outlining a list of grievances with how Ms Murphy conducted the Dáil business yesterday, this person said of the motion: “That’s the direction we’re heading in,” adding that they would be “very surprised if we didn’t get a motion of no confidence.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CFD6W7JSTBDXTB5SN3DP4KPAQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Opposition is critical of Ms Murphy on several fronts, specifically:","type":"text"},{"_id":"VRMPPBU74FEQFLLJHMEG3RIK54","additional_properties":{},"content":"That the Order of Business – the Dáil schedule for the week – was deemed to be agreed without a vote. There is almost always a vote, which is largely procedural because it the Government wins it, but allows the Opposition more time to speak critically of the Government. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WJASDGZF4RD6JGMLXNHVCSDAYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"That Questions on Promised Legislation (QPL) were scrapped – this slot follows Leaders’ Questions and yesterday was occupying the space between Leaders’ Questions and the vote on the motion reforming standing orders in line with the Government’s proposal on speaking rights. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"R5PWNHTH5BHIJOOBBNXXNF6TVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Ceann Comhairle is within her rights to scrap QPL, but the Opposition view is that the effect of this was to bring things quickly to a head.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XNCNKSVU3ZEEFJALU2UHOP6THU","additional_properties":{},"content":"That the Opposition amendment to the Government motion was not taken. Amid the chaos in the Dáil yesterday, the Opposition were furious that this didn’t happen.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJHGQJ5HNBD5DLAPDH6LRPE2LI","additional_properties":{},"content":"They are also annoyed that Ms Murphy decided to adjourn the Dáil for the day immediately following the vote on the Government motion. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TJWOHVJTCRDO7OWLI7HW3YS5EM","additional_properties":{},"content":"So what happens next? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NJWYXNIBQBBENESXFKCTETEUKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The only situation analogous to current events was the resignation of former Ceann Comhairle John O’Donoghue in 2009 after a controversy about expenses. He went before he was pushed – when Labour indicated it had lost confidence in him. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MIS3N3JJZFED3O5NYOI3U2V5AA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Ceann Comhairle is appointed by majority vote of the House, but it is generally accepted that they must enjoy the support of the Government and Opposition to retain the credibility of an independent officeholder.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LAMCWV26IFCLFER2IXTXWQ7QPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"If Murphy acts as O’Donoghue did and resigns in the face of an oncoming no confidence motion, it will a big development, and will lead to a massive debate about events leading up to it. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"P6D547XVZ5H4VMKO3QT6ZNFJOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, there are those both in Government and Opposition who believe that she may fight her corner. If it goes to a vote, the Government will be expected to back her and vote the motion down. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2AD7IS2OJBBC5OLJIUCQWLOXUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"But that invites the unprecedented scenario of the speaker of the House trying to run the business of the House without the confidence of a really meaningful minority.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D7INNOMC4NDSHB2USIQZOYVMLI","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742985221398},"id":"timestamp-36294","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"B6IGN7AZONGO5H4LGJVFNHYRWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The Opposition leaders meeting has just finished. They are likely to tell Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy they have no confidence in her, political editor Pat Leahy reports. There is no formal motion yet it seems – but statements are expected later.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"KXAYBMZZZ5BW7FSJWL4SP64LEQ","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742986295721},"id":"timestamp-24918","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"OCHSMPPJHRFMTN3DZE6IEDKSNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meanwhile, Vivienne Clarke reports that Government Chief Whip and Fianna Fáil TD Mary Butler has described the Opposition as “permanently outraged”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7S4HTZZSKREYXGODJBEBQJSJJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking on RTÉ radio’s Claire Byrne show, Ms Butler said that she was not surprised at what had happened in the Dáil chamber on Tuesday as she had been “verbally warned” about what would happen at a business committee meeting last Thursday by Sinn Féin whip Pádraic Mac Lochlainn and Independent Ireland’s Michael Collins. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVO4P3M4IVGJ3ALGR5RDEKJM3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Butler said unfortunately the Opposition don’t want to accept the democratic mandate of all members, especially those on the Government side. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VCD43QERSJB55ELTWJP565CPAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The reality is, in my opinion, that the Opposition really can’t accept that the Government have a majority, won the election and has a job to do to govern,” she said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UAWKTOTCEJATTJUDJDN5KGCK7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Waterford TD also said she believed the gesture made by Michael Lowry in the chamber was “inappropriate”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3KTW6KBUFNFXLCIAP267Y7PTLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But the behaviour in general across the Opposition yesterday was completely inappropriate and I know Michael Lowry was accused of putting up two fingers, but to be honest the Opposition gave the Ceann Comhairle the two fingers yesterday too,” she added. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHKK2TYNMJCXXIFT5WSDE5DHDA","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742986756726},"id":"timestamp-1747","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"VMENKWP6AFHCPLSJEEKZT4SHO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Opposition backbenchers have been told that the main outcome from the meeting this morning is that at Leaders’ Questions at midday, each party will express a loss of confidence in the Ceann Comhairle. </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"AZ5KKAFZCJGVVPIJYVA2QGTDAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Senior Opposition sources said that it is “almost a racing certainty” that a motion of no confidence will be put down next week, Jack Horgan-Jones reports. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"O5NCNL5BUZF7RGP6HSLZ7M7UTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The reason for the delay is that such a motion would have to be put down in Opposition time, with Sinn Féin having the time to do so next week. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"43D7UCAI75GBFH7OLEMFCLLMIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It invites a pressure-cooker atmosphere for both Murphy and the Government in the days ahead – unless she bows to pressure today and goes. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3TKMFHBMGJBRPB27L2FMAQLJVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is unclear if there will be further disruption at Leaders’ Questions at noon, but some Opposition sources were downplaying the possibility, saying it might be the case that it proceeds as normal today.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YBGIRGW35FGC5FP3FFSMUJKHCQ","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742986998664},"id":"timestamp-46493","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WZI75K23YRHJTLZQQNNEWB6PBQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Things are rapidly building towards a moment of reckoning for Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy, political correspondent Jack Horgan-Jones reports. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V43WMEW3L5FVJC56HKUJQRMXJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"With all Opposition leaders now seen as likely to express no confidence in her at Leaders’ Questions at noon today, it seems that she will face a clear choice: does she go or face down the Opposition, meaning a motion of confidence next week would seem inevitable. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZPT3WJA5ZBDRB3CHHBJEQYHLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"If she stays, she will probably win any vote ultimately, but it could be a pyrrhic victory as her authority would be massively undermined. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AJZPMR5D7FC5TBPCBH5A6SDVCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Leinster House is now entering a rolling boil as things build towards Leaders’ Questions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7QRYX7JLJE5HCRNF3N7CNSBTI","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742987619910},"id":"timestamp-75241","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"GERNFPVOUBCJVAEEGD32E6TDDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Elsewhere, Vivienne Clare reports: <b>Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín has said he would be “cautious” about calling a motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy. </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"UFQWMO6GTJAERLVHKS23HV4KTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking on RTÉ radio’s Today with Claire Byrne show, Mr Toibín said although Ms Murphy made mistakes yesterday, “there isn’t anybody who would have been able to sit in that chair and have grown adults roaring at the top of their voices non-stop for well over an hour and to be able to manage that situation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FURBZMPPRNCETMZD4X3QUTE4G4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In any football club, any workplace, any family and in the country, that type of behaviour would not have been tolerated.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVVTFX57GRG5HM2KM3XU7M3PU4","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742990421669},"id":"timestamp-51061","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"PRWBVAYXRVHSBMFDNR2LTLA5VM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Leaders’ Questions has just got under way, with Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald stating that yesterday represented an unprecedented sabotaging of the democracy of the Dáil. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4T6YIW446FBP3HFPQ34UKCECAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said the mess was entirely of the Government’s making. Ms McDonald said the Government has moved heaven and Earth to allow Michael Lowry and his group of TDs both in Government and Opposition at the same time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"34FHTQZFUBELTKFGOJ67KIHPCA","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742990750412},"id":"timestamp-53295","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"U33SRBZT5JHBVDKVXNFRU3EYXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin leader Mary McDonald has said Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy has lost the confidence of the entire Opposition in the Dáil on Wednesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3BARNT7PB5DQPDRNR4TAGLQCA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"She told Ms Murphy that her position was untenable and “you need to go”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"W376JDGPUJGONA7AXKRSPCDKRA","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742990940058},"id":"timestamp-76419","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"MKT4X7S3NJEL7CYXHTYM4QO2FA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In response, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said Ms McDonald and Sinn Féin were promoting a destructive model of Opposition. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GAHOQEVVPJCWJC2JVYGWBN6LAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin said anybody who uses two fingers in the House to another TD was wrong and that Michael Lowry should apologise. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5JJOXN45OJABXI2DHH5C273U7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"He also said it was wrong for TDs to be waving cameras in the face of other deputies. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XPMBASSQC5DJFIEEFPJYZO4S5I","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742991151307},"id":"timestamp-25283","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"FLFVPYXT6VH5HLK3BSCS6HYIFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has now repeated that Verona Murphy should reflect on her position and if necessary her party will move a motion of no confidence in the Ceann Comhairle.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"FMX57JECPNFXTNPW7C65LSDV4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach Micheál Martin has signalled that any motion will be resisted. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QZLD7NJPNRFNTHKLLO7XOJS7WE","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742991461261},"id":"timestamp-16173","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KLCFFILA6BFADAVJV6RCEPNI6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Labour leader Ivana Bacik has said two fingers have been shown to the Opposition and to the people of the country. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"U5DGTTTPHJFQLDEH7X7SO42Y5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Bacik said that she and her parliamentary party members agreed the Ceann Comhairle should reflect on her position and if not, they will have no option but to maintain a position of no confidence in her. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5VV3IONTHND6FNT6BTRQTM7WQU","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742991878740},"id":"timestamp-64718","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"NYREIVFLDFC2PODG2ISEIR55UY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Bacik said the Taoiseach was not only becoming increasingly tetchy but increasingly “patronising”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6HAYMFZPT5B6PICGFX2VBA7ZVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said it was “deeply wrong” and “deeply disrespectful” of Michael Lowry to give the two fingers and said Mr Martin should get him to apologise. But she said the mess was a “farce of your making”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K2HXBRZISBBLHPW5IZXRWB7F6Q","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742991921349},"id":"timestamp-4107","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"UJKEUTCGNZBX7HTMGITK62OEVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Social Democrats acting leader Cian O’Callaghan also called on the Ceann Comhairle to “reflect on her position”. He said Ms Murphy should represent all parties but that did not happen.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YMRBDFNIBJDT3BVRC3M4CYV7EA","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742992008925},"id":"timestamp-47241","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KNMLR6HJZFDQ7PBPDLPN3V7HZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Social Democrats acting leader Cian O’Callaghan also said there was a “muddying of the waters” by attempting to show the Independents as Opposition. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WVMZOEPVGVBGVGVW6MM27BTEMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr O’Callaghan said the Government is only a few months old but its record is already one of failure. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GZFKC6NOIJCULOIW4JOCP6T4CU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He has called on Mr Martin to “come clean” on what deal he had done with Independent TD Michael Lowry. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PTLQFKAQRBGDJGUC4WSZHNJGOE","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742992128940},"id":"timestamp-29935","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LYN26AT6P5HBFI2BAII5LCJT2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Marie O’Halloran reports: The Taoiseach has reiterated that it was only eight minutes for the Independents and Government backbenchers to speak and they only got to speak about once a year. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVOPGZLOZBHYTJAL75JNTPQFJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin told Mr O’Callaghan that “you trot out the line” laced with “dark stuff” and innuendo in reference to a deal “and that is smear stuff”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OMQET3CBCNDBRAID4ETAGKKCEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Taoiseach insisted that “my motivation is stable Government”. There is an “effort from day one to undermine this Government”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DZDJ6DUFHBA5FNWOQVBJZS7PVE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr O’Callaghan then asked if the Taoiseach really thought it was “credible” that there was no deal when Mr Lowry was saying from day one that “this is what he was going to get”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NKOTZ74O6ZDLTOUME5KHQH3X2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin insisted there was line-by-line discussion as part of programme-for-Government discussions but “you will just throw out the smear”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WZHBVC7AJNBWTHGWCUXEUCMMHM","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742992442046},"id":"timestamp-94687","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"MZWJSVQPTBCW7P3DIEBS4ZZPNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Marie O’Halloran reports: Solidarity TD Ruth Coppinger said comments had been made about the “unpleasantness” yesterday and comments of misogyny which she described as cynical “coming from one of the most male-dominated governments” in the world. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KS6XJ4KULRBWXGJIH5A4DD2KXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Coppinger said this is a Government removing itself more and more from accountability and that today and next Wednesday “we will have Michael Lowry questioning you”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YI26UXTZBRFBHHXJ7APE3E3CPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said Mr Lowry gave two fingers and then gaslit the public that he hadn’t actually done it. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BBRTYRCKVNBO3PJWITCKVUY7YY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin repeated that the Opposition’s approach was “feigned outrage”. He said “I’m not dying in any ditch” for Mr Lowry. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4FRYXTKDPJBMZOMCSXWQDNN3CQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The precedents being set by the Opposition will be very hard to overturn in the future Dáil, he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V4STOS4A4VAUTITWSU2ZJAEJO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Taoiseach also accused Sinn Féin TDs of conspiring to ensure he could not be heard yesterday. He accused Pearse Doherty of “naked aggression” yesterday towards the Ceann Comhairle “and that precedent” could not be undone.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GJTKWAPSJ5EPVHKDLJ434EXQK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Coppinger said “we’ve heard of the lonely plight of backbenchers”. She said “my heart bleeds” when the reality was that backbenchers had access to Ministers and to briefings that opposition TDs were not invited to.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JAFAVRJPXRC2JN2BCTS3CPV6VY","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742993012401},"id":"timestamp-65116","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"AOIC2MWI5VAYVHVGG7QIVYBDZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Dáil is now moved on from Leaders’ Questions to the Order of Business, parliamentary correspondent Marie O’Halloran reports. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHQYJQOPWFHIDBEMXPSDT5IUYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms McDonald said there is an obligation to form Government and that is what the Taoiseach had done. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3JE2MTMFJRFQJCAPEV3VV5KK64","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But you get to form the Government. You do not get to form the Opposition,” she said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V57YSVBP5REA7GQUMLTKODZZCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms McDonald said the Taoiseach had co-ordinated the appointment of the Ceann Comhairle and now he was changing Leaders’ Questions so that it would be a “faux Opposition”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SJFF4BWOC5CWDF227Z6XHBP6ZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin said Ms McDonald and her party showed a complete lack of respect for the Ceann Comhairle. They had set a precedent where “you successfully shout down and barrack” the Ceann Comhairle and that was a precedent that could not be undone.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O7TZEUIQNVBAHDNPUKV2MC2C7E","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742993232912},"id":"timestamp-31718","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"QKFAIIHETZC6RE2WPI343YCRQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Labour leader Ivana Bacik has moved from the row over speaking rights to the issue of tariffs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AIKHZSRUABHWDDDBYLYPIKEK3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"She asked what the Government is doing to prepare contingency plans and if they could brief the Opposition.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VEGEAUOU6FA2BO7RGCXS4G2DQA","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742993422906},"id":"timestamp-64189","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"Y4KUH2PIMVE2FBRMGULWDPEKMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Independent TD Michael Lowry has just issued a statement regarding the “gesture” he made in the Dáil on Tuesday. </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"P32OSHNKDZCA7JTLHE6ZUK4RYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The gesture I made in the Dáil yesterday was not made with malicious intent,” he said. “I made an errant gesture under provocation. Unfortunately, the gesture has been taken out of context.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M5QAADZCKFDBDPT2MA3EIFHUSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Unlike others, I have always respected the rules and values of the Dáil. My gesture was not intended to be offensive or to cause any offence, and I regret that it may have been seen in such a way.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JEKUV32IEJFOHEIXMZHOX4PVJA","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742993613023},"id":"timestamp-98114","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"VFCGOF2KYRDPTLPY5PCGEU4OVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy is back, raising the speaking rights issue in the Dáil, Marie O’Halloran reports. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7HFVWHE4I5A5VHHZYJI6S25KQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Murphy said that “if you think Michael Lowry is asking Leaders’ Questions next week, you have another think coming.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MEIHH7AHEFHLVETHETS63FSU3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Taoiseach said “it’s no surprise to me” that Mr Murphy was making threats “because that’s what you do”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NCX3TVGTQ5GC3OA4CSUEBEPSAQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Independent TD Paul Gogarty said the way the Ceann Comhairle was treated was “semi-feral” and was wrong but he asked the Taoiseach to reconsider what he was doing. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTKCFWQMFFFKVOVIVY6QP2GXTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said if Mr Martin was giving time for the Lowry group to ask Leaders’ Questions, he called on him to have the Dáil sit at 9am on Tuesdays to make up the time. The Dáil normally commences at 2pm on a Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KUXK765GDBEMTIO7U2GMFCTGL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Taoiseach said that he was in favour of Friday sittings and he had no problem at all with extra time being allotted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"URUCNM46VFFTJANCSXV6UQJJFU","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742996647205},"id":"timestamp-34761","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"d6f6fc12-2330-470b-bc3e-fd96f1422dac","additional_properties":{},"subtype":"irish-times-video","type":"video"},{"_id":"4XAF52CMSFATJG4NQWN4P62J3A","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742996757561},"id":"timestamp-90190","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"IF4KF3C7UNFCXN7WOYUGQ6OPQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Vivienne Clarke reports: ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZJPJP6GSOFEDHAK3VINGXTOHSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin’s chief whip Pádraig MacLochlainn has said that he hopes the Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy “reflects” on her position. He said that if she doesn’t step aside the Opposition will “regretfully” move a motion of no confidence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SEH6KRN6EJGQVEMAPAM5MJJKGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr MacLochlainn told RTÉ radio’s News at One that it was “Micheál Martin and his deal with Michael Lowry” that led to the current situation which was “a first in a hundred years of democracy” with the suggestion that “Government TDs can pose as opposition, can ask Leaders’ Questions, can ask priority questions to Ministers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5J7FNK6J3VE7HN7QF5FCE3TFXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That’s an absolute stroke, a sham.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IP33DAT35NES5DAMK7Y5L54E7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This is nonsense. This is about creating space for Michael Lowry to back the Government wholeheartedly and his colleagues and to pose questions at Leaders’ Questions. He was determined to get that, independent legal advice says it shouldn’t be done. But the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste and the Government have just ignored that and ploughed on and bulldozed their way through yesterday.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OGHPVF34HFACVKZICK3BZYK2AE","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742996999098},"id":"timestamp-54328","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"V36ILLGZZFEJZI2DHE2CEFXHWE","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the Dáil, parliamentary correspondent Marie O’Halloran reports: ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AAPKJ6IN7RB2XH7VBIBGB7BWG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy has told Sinn Féin’s Pearse Doherty she will send him the official record of the Dáil regarding Tuesday’s Order of Business after he raised concerns about the validity of legislation to be debated this week.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"YCFVVZFYY5ANFJYXPP363EYURA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Doherty said he was concerned that legislation such as the Údarás na Gaeltachta Bill, to be debated on Wednesday afternoon, may not be valid because it was unclear whether the Order of Business had actually been passed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FRWCKIOITBF3PHM7SPD725O3GM","additional_properties":{},"content":"He asked Ms Murphy for a determination “maybe on the basis of legal advice as well” because he had reviewed the audio of the debate and said there was a call for a vote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UUVRZLOBYNHCDCWBK5VVIB757Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Donegal TD said: “I question now whether you have failed to fulfil your independent and partial duty to allow that division to take place.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MNFWJARLCZEMDKUS2GTTDKXLAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy said she would send him the official record of the Dáil.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E2XVFBIQDVFXXADOPTSVAM2JDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Doherty asked: “Are you looking at the transcript which is an abridged version” and did not include everything.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PMADZX3TZBCAZERME643UXTDHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy asked the Clerk of the Dáil and then told Mr Doherty “I will send you what is regarded as the official record”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G54OKT3FKZDJBHD7BF3NWFHRS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"When he asked if she would seek legal advice on the issue, the Ceann Comhairle said she would send him the official record and would review it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T2GQWWP6CZC3JLQFSAFMR3HEUY","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742997927301},"id":"timestamp-97653","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CTF6ZMVOLJCTVDRDZLO3W2EMQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Independent TD Catherine Connolly claimed the Taoiseach has “put the Ceann Comhairle in a most invidious position” because of the manner in which he had made changes to Dáil speaking times.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DFPHT2RF6ZD6BB5ADLSN64TKUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said the changes Micheál Martin was making “in the guise” of giving more time were “unacceptable”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3DP4JRVGGRGRBJUWRDT25HMRTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said Mr Martin had halved Taoiseach’s Questions and “you’re no longer accountable on the second day of the week”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YCP6ZA4YMZGK5L2ZTZMM4QDGKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She added that he had reduced the time for the Order of Business by 50 per cent and had taken away 22 minutes of private member’s time to give to the groups.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P46FZ745T5ELRJG3HR2MDKEKGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So on every level you have misused the opportunity to deal in an agreeable way with us in a serious way,” she said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3DXDDJQTFVEFDP2Q2JR5PR3TNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"She added that he had “twisted language on its head and put the Ceann Comhairle in a most invidious position”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FPPJYROOXVEBTFWTEBWFCHNFD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"But the Taoiseach rejected her assertions and said he was keeping the 30 minutes Order of Business “for deputies”, not to have it as a second Leaders’ Question, which had become the practice by certain deputies. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"32S5KAFSRFEFVEW5BOF23FBN5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said it was “much better now for backbenchers from all sides”, adding “please don’t misrepresent me”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U5ZE45N5DRAX7ISHJOURNOT4B4","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742999179140},"id":"timestamp-99914","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"PZ4OZ26UYNDPLBMR5WFA3RUEPI","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"GMWJ3M267VHZDKQ6B33DTN2FMQ","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742999259887},"id":"timestamp-67640","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CSM7A52TJFH3PJ5PY3WIM4ZTME","additional_properties":{},"content":"When the Ceann Comhairle called an end to questions on policy and legislation, Fine Gael backbencher Willie Aird complained that he had wanted to speak on Tuesday but could not, Marie O’Halloran reports. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"O3JWHTYILZCZHGPRRO6I5UW5TI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“And once only have I been allowed to speak in this House, having been elected to represent Laois.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"O566IY7MVJGC7AEHYYOPWCMKGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He called on the Ceann Comhairle “to make it good for those of us who were to ask questions”, adding that “I’m the same as everyone else elected”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4JIV4JAVJNH2BG6TG2YJB2BQCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin’s Mark Ward said “chat to your party whip, for f***’s sake”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KC2QG3A7BZA7ZFSPNWEYPM2PCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Ceann Comhairle responded “language”, as she called on Mr Aird to send her correspondence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZGU2EN2AIREVJIR3HPY3RMJWPM","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1743004838498},"id":"timestamp-10724","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"XXRAY2CCANCBZF3VOV7UIK5DL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"There have been whispers all afternoon that a motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy is being drafted and may be communicated to her office today, Harry McGee reports. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYW6WTM5TJA6HLDZFMWJT3HK7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"It looked for a while there may be another doorstep interview with Opposition leaders but any likelihood of that has been scuppered.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DRLEYOXFRASJB64L6MTMY6ZRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"If there is a motion and the Ceann Comhairle decides to oppose it, the motion will almost certainly be defeated as the Government parties and groupings will support her. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MW3J35PC4JG5NC37GXWBYBWG7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The difficulty for Ms Murphy will be more one of standing and authority. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VAQUMWUWWBCBFJYWFKMFN5FUH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"With all of the Opposition opposed to her remaining in office, that will make her position very difficult. However, if she steps down that will also create animus as the Government parties will see it as a naked move to try and undermine the Government’s majority.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C5VIJLK5ZFDX7P4YLMUSME3SSM","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1743005100000},"id":"timestamp-39527","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"RHCOXPWDQZBRVHE3HJYA2RKXH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Opposition parties have been engaged in a back-and-forth on the wording of a motion, Jack Horgan-Jones writes. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6TVXHUDTFBASXBY6SK3WUIJ24A","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s understood that the final text - which, if it comes to a vote, will likely be amended by the Government - is brief and straightforward, calling on the Dáil to vote that the Ceann Comhairle no longer maintains the confidence of all members of the house.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H274QWN77NGLHM4BPPHFOLNV6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s not quite clear how or whether this will be published today. There was a suggestion that Opposition parties might hold another press conference on the Leinster House plinth but that appears to be less likely at this stage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5TLU7BNDXVB7FDKRKEFDW7U53Y","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1743009833773},"id":"timestamp-5771","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7O6CXSWHMJDA3OJOQNQW7MZHQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The combined Opposition parties have published the text of a motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy that will come before the Dáil on Tuesday, Harry McGee reports.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y4AB4GBBCRFPTAF65FK2QB7OAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The wording of the motion states: “That the Ceann Comhairle no longer maintains the confidence of all members of Dáil Éireann.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEAD7J7CDBHJNG447W455PVHKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The wording was published on Thursday afternoon after it was agreed by the leaders of all Opposition parties and groups - totalling 75 TDs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJWBEOWKIFDBLPSOGD7NFZLMCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It will be tabled by Sinn Féin as its private member motion on Tuesday. It is expected that all other business of the Dáil will be set aside for the debate and vote on Ms Murphy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"X6Y4JXQN4JD2ZE62BKGFW4DVEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The sponsors of the motion included Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald, Labour’s Ivana Bacik, Cian O’Callaghan of the Social Democrats, Richard Boyd Barrett of People Before Profit, and Michael Collins of Independent Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ER3UNUQP5JC63F5ZPQVMWEPASI","additional_properties":{},"content":"There was regular communication by email between all the Opposition leaders during the course of Thursday afternoon as they worked on agreeing the wording. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4B2QZI7GTJFH5HKPJTVFTHP7GQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1743010080000},"id":"timestamp-72266","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7L4SAAMJKJDCZFLEW5HXIJGVXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"This will mark the first time in the history of the State that a no confidence motion will be debated in relation to a serving Ceann Comhairle, Harry McGee writes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UPLIUVYJZFBBHLW7JBJEUV7FYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In 2009, Labour leader Eamon Gilmore told then ceann comhairle John O’Donoghue that he would be tabling a motion of no confidence in him. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PC76F37KMZE3PKNICX35FDADS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"However Mr O’Donoghue resigned from the office before any debate commenced. The then Kerry TD had been embroiled in controversy over his expenses for air travel, limousines, and hotels when travelling abroad. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JAT3YCUXWVAGXMPABPUMFLZ76M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald told the Dáil that Ms Murphy should reflect on her position. She said, if necessary, her party would move a motion of no confidence in the Ceann Comhairle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WVUFN45K6VC7XC7CDGAS7RQ3EY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach Micheál Martin signalled to her that any motion will be resisted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FW4VNEKSURHIRNFU62A4GG4FGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"If there is a motion and the Ceann Comhairle decides to oppose it, the motion will almost certainly be defeated as the Government parties and groupings will support her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OH6FY6BIDRGKNJV4I44F2F2RBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The difficulty for Ms Murphy will be more one of standing and authority.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SZP76Z7ZUVEV7H7VGCI5JVBU3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"With all of the Opposition opposed to her remaining in office, that will make her position very difficult. However, if she steps down that will also create animus as the Government parties will see it as a naked move to try and undermine the Government’s majority.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F3MDMCSFYBDTPOOJRLN7QIHXKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The issue dominated Leaders’ Questions in Dáil Éireann on Wednesday. Ms McDonald, in a post on X, said the Ceann Comhairle needed to go. “Yesterday, she assisted the Government in running roughshod over the democracy of the Dáil. She has shown that she is not impartial or independent. Her position is untenable. She must go.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWX5LL74P5FL7KCGYP2KDBEUNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Labour leader Ivana Bacik also said her position was untenable. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V4RVDPGOVVCYDHAA2NG7LDNQ2M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Regrettably, in our view the position of the Ceann Comhairle is no longer tenable due to the Government’s insistence on placating the Lowry group.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CALUULAGNNGMPAGYPC5CNTDIRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The chairing of Dáil proceedings yesterday was not carried out in a fair and impartial manner,” she said in a post on X. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LCG4SON2N5GY7HHG3D7FUSLFMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"During exchanges in the Dáíl Taoiseach Micheál Martin accused the Opposition parties of feigned outrage over speaking rights. He accused Ms McDonald and Sinn Féin of promoting a destructive model of Opposition.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J5A4RFQE7FFSFACKF24I6C2GIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Taoiseach claimed accused Sinn Féin TDs were conspiring to ensure he could not be heard on Tuesday. He singled out the party’s finance spokesman, Pearse Doherty, who he claimed had shown “naked aggression” towards the Ceann Comhairle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DZKOJ4O7CBFV7FVJCHSWOJCTXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That precedent” could not be undone, claimed Mr Martin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CMY64ATGIBBIFCGRPRI7WW7TLU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1743013115066},"id":"timestamp-88989","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7XSVDM6VQ5E3DH3OKLPANFK62U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Verona Murphy has “categorically” rejected “unfounded allegations” of partiality and collusion, adding that she fully intends to continue as Ceann Comhairle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q5TTS3QC5VFMJDYFY3GJS7MOEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Shortly after Opposition parties agreed the wording of a motion of no confidence in Ms Murphy on Wednesday evening, she said: ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5YMOGIPENBEWLARN5MEXBSDXZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I fully intend to continue to carry out the onerous office to which I was elected in accordance with the solemn undertakings I gave the Dáil upon my election.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NWLNQMYCCNC2DISPKTRR2HDNCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy called on every member to “reflect on and abide by their own constitutional obligations, to refrain from disorder, and to respect the rights and dignity of every other member and of the House itself.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"EPZ7Q2L5ONGFBM7Z4AMA6VTZKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said her office has endeavoured to find a compromise between the Government and Opposition concerning the speaking rights issue over the past two months “without success”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QEBE4257YNASDHC43CGI3A6WL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said prolonged disorder and obstruction is “utterly unacceptable in any democratic parliament.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OTYX6E7RSBEXZPMD3AA3QCDHDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So too is making false accusations of partiality and collusion against its officials and Chair. By virtue of the independence of the office of Ceann Comhairle, I am in the unenviable position that I cannot descend at will into debate to defend myself against the entirely false allegations of collusion made against me in the Dáil today.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZSHBVSQC4FFKFP4FAO7CDDG65Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I categorically reject these totally unfounded allegations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WHCE4SUPQBDLPAS7KO2GTXJIMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I have at all times followed the correct procedures of the House and the advice of the impartial officials present. The Clerk of Dáil Éireann has independently prepared a report on yesterday’s proceedings detailing the procedures followed. It has been laid before the Dáil and accordingly is a public document,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4ZWVNZJ4CJBRDIR2KKUD6QV6CM","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1743016126997},"id":"timestamp-47048","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"SQCENBRODRFLFF4ET6ORBDL2AI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The report prepared by the clerk of the Dáil, Peter Finnegan, reads that Tuesday’s proceedings were “extraordinarily difficult for the Chair and indeed for all the staff of the Houses of the Oireachtas Service who support the work of the Dáil chamber.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AID2Z4QD3RACJHXVIJGTBBG3XU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The operation of the Dáil is only possible if members accept the chair’s authority and rulings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5HZPN7OLARC6RMI45KK6OKVRBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Ultimately the Constitution provides that all decisions are made by a majority of the members present and voting. Notwithstanding the unprecedented level of dissent yesterday, once a matter is put to the House, the only remedy for those dissenting is through the voting process in the House,” it reads.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPGNWSUMA5HADCKLLTYZ5OCSXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The report was prepared after the Opposition criticised the Ceann Comhairle for deeming the Order of Business - the Dáil schedule for the week – to be agreed without a vote on Tuesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JKZ6FOAT7BFI7LBFQ2PPDE3NBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Finnegan said the Ceann Comhairle declared her opinion that the arrangements on the Order of Business were agreed, adding that it is a longstanding parliamentary requirement that members dissenting from the Ceann Comhairle’s declaration must say the word “Vótáil” to trigger a division. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWE4AOL2S5HKNETHVUHRFPC2RI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The official report of the debates and the clerk’s sheet (which is the basis for the Journal of Proceedings, the legal record of the Dáil) both confirm that the word ‘Vótáil’ was not audible in the Chamber when you put the question on the Order of Business. The declaration of the result by you was therefore fully in accordance with standing orders,” the report reads.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W43GRC7Q7ZA7DAMQEVC37YBXYY","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1743017548056},"id":"timestamp-11711","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"H2AXOIG4FNE6XHD6M56W7XZQVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government has confirmed it will table a counter motion of confidence in Ms Murphy, Harry McGee reports.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KKK6MMX4XJFPZGT3JWQBCNNFAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach Micheál Martin also accused the Opposition of employing “undemocratic” tactics in the Dáil. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BSDGQZ2G5FBNHPOF423R5RZPI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement on Wednesday evening he said: “It beggars belief that Sinn Fein in particular, who shouted and roared during Leaders Questions in a clearly organised manner, and who refused point blank to cooperate, are now accusing the Ceann Comhairle of bias and failing to follow procedures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VY5VSHPUZVDOXC2O2LE4C7BGCE","additional_properties":{},"content":" “The Clerk of the Dail has confirmed proceedings were conducted in accordance with procedures,” he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VJUU3YCGRZD4XF6CW3PQKLZTPI","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1743018506300},"id":"timestamp-55496","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"UQLDLYPWOZASHO2Q2XSDKKHGJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"That’s all for now on today’s live story, thanks for reading.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NN3W3LYJX5GC3BAM2CLP6NXS4Y","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742979600000},"id":"timestamp-90194","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"H4RLZXYDXVEWZA2KE6B2HSH3UM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\">Dáil</a> is set to resume shortly after 9am this morning after it was adjourned at 3.45pm yesterday amid chaotic scenes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IMSEABC3ORHJLL2WWJNV25CZTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"That came after <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\">Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy</a> pushed through a controversial vote to allow new speaking slots for Government-supporting Independents, led by Tipperary North TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" rel=\"\">Michael Lowry</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPDNGG3PQJCBFEPP55LT2UGUHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It led to unprecedented scenes of prolonged shouting and anger, while Mr Lowry was accused of giving the two fingers to People Before Profit TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paul-murphy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paul-murphy/\">Paul Murphy</a>. Mr Lowry has said he was merely “beckoning” the Dublin South-West TD “to sit down”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WPEGCLDZ6JECJMIRU55OHWXCZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last night, Opposition leaders stopped short of tabling a motion of no confidence in the Ceann Comhairle but they are meeting this morning to discuss their next moves, including a possible motion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YMZEVUGGTNBMHOV4TRQHZ6VSJY","additional_properties":{},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742987402038},"id":"timestamp-26632","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WPRLYVPKHJBWRNTSGW5RX3KJ3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Main reads","type":"header"},{"_id":"I5JUYQCEPRFSNI4OVCWJ5GMS5U","type":"list"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"free"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Sarah Burns"}},"name":"Sarah Burns"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack White"}},"name":"Jack White"}]},"description":{"basic":"Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy responds as Opposition publishes no-confidence motion "},"display_date":"2025-03-26T19:49:23.248Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘I fully intend to continue’: Verona Murphy rejects ‘unfounded allegations’ of partiality and ‘will remain’ as Ceann Comhairle","native":""},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Live: Dáil resumes"},"live":{"text":"inactive"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"X2KNK22TY556YPY5WXHR3NO4PA","auth":{"1":"bb053e0679bce4e9abd715893ce180d9cba3547b806e53751d951a9653c48fc8"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/X2KNK22TY556YPY5WXHR3NO4PA.JPG"},"lead_art":{"_id":"d6f6fc12-2330-470b-bc3e-fd96f1422dac","embed_html":"<div class=\"powa\" id=\"powa-d6f6fc12-2330-470b-bc3e-fd96f1422dac\" data-org=\"irishtimes\" data-env=\"prod\" data-uuid=\"d6f6fc12-2330-470b-bc3e-fd96f1422dac\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.562\" data-api=\"prod\"><script src=\"//irishtimes.video-player.arcpublishing.com/prod/powaBoot.js?org=irishtimes\"><\/script></div>","promo_image":{"auth":{"1":"ea79124ad229576f1fb748d243a11f29c5a8f13eead73ec39cdb2c2b46b4321e"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_b4bb2e22c9b14ace820ebfd8845c98dc_name_file_960x540_1600_v4_.jpg"},"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"ea79124ad229576f1fb748d243a11f29c5a8f13eead73ec39cdb2c2b46b4321e"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_b4bb2e22c9b14ace820ebfd8845c98dc_name_file_960x540_1600_v4_.jpg"}},"type":"video"}},"subtype":"live-story","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"JN6MCK36KRAZVATVOKH5ANTGS4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":206,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f06b6448-54f9-41cd-8a12-83621df03264/versions/1743017833/media/c9603a4a5fae4c2ace6588420b289976_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/woman-student-harassed-by-200-young-men-in-whatsapp-group-dail-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"5UID46H26BBDVMWJDCFZCXWGSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/whatsapp/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/whatsapp/\">WhatsApp</a> group of 200 young men was created to target a woman in her student accommodation by shouting and chanting outside her window and throwing eggs at her door, the Dáil has heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PIF6E6GUSVBFXCSGMHRI7C2QCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\">Sinn Féin</a> TD Mairéad Farrell said the incidents, including ringing the doorbell in the middle of the night, continued over several nights.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WARZHEK2YJF5HMWFU2HIBWYHEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"When <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/university-of-limerick\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/university-of-limerick\">University of Limerick</a> student Ella Deasy reported the initial shouting and chanting outside her house to the accommodation provider, nothing was done at that point.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YHZCWK4HPVCSPLC2OV327HUD4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Deasy found out that “a young man had created a TikTok account in which he shared his hopes for the year ahead which included throwing eggs” at her house.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KJRRQ5E2RVBZTKEM2EDOZZADH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Higher Education <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/james-lawless/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/james-lawless/\">James Lawless</a> said in response that third-level institutions “must take action when issues of harassment and threats to student welfare are brought to their attention.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JUDKHPJRSVDFTPXOCKGZKAEHVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Adolescence on Netflix wasn’t called that by accident. This is what it means to grow up now","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"5YSA5BMNDNARPMFJX6ZLAN5W2M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There is no place for sexual violence, gender-based violence or harassment in Ireland nor the attitudes underpinning it.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3CZTILWMYJD6PG3BVZ4HOSHYGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Farrell highlighted the case, which had been outlined on social media, as her party colleague Clare TD Donna McGettigan said there were many “shocking stories and harrowing accounts of young female students being attacked, abused, followed and harassed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TUUHKNML2NDO3K3M6HPRQWNBXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms McGettigan said it was a serious and urgent issue because “too many young women live in fear on the streets, in schools, on college campuses and even online. They face catcalling, stalking, spiking and, in the worst cases, assault. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OYJ4RBEQ4JDUHN7EJS4ZKCAUEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It is shameful to think that young women in Ireland, who should be excited to be facing a new chapter in their lives, only find it all goes horribly wrong when they are stalked or assaulted.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVWVHTPCQFARHDL434WK56UEJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Farrell said this story is “deeply concerning” and “there is no other way of putting this other than to say this is an incredibly frightening experience”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W47DKLHPYVEYNNFIWWTVJNKANI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“What really stuck me was the fact that there was a WhatsApp group with over 200 young men discussing viewing or participating in this group. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSKEGTUYYFALTNIXTGCGCIU4U4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“As Ella said herself, just imagine 200 boys against one girl. We need to do better for our young women. And, equally, we need to do better for our young men.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JSC5OVDWHRBZHGICLCPXY4CI5A","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Galway West TD asked the Minister how the colleges could deal with this sort of problem “so that if women receive this type of harassment that they have immediate support from their colleges”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DOW5IJNVFFJ7LORY27XRLE4WY","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-13576","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"I5KD6QSD3JFZTNLRUWFODGWGLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Warning that third-level institutions must take action when such harassment and threats are brought to their attention, Mr Lawless said, “we cannot tolerate, accept, condone or downplay harassment or behaviour of any kind that threatens student wellbeing”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B7QZUFEQ7RDQFENRCWB3HFULDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said he is “on a bit of a road trip in visiting institutions”, adding that he would be engaging on the issue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PJ7KDBV7IFCDZONA6QBXXOZASI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The student experience of being safe from harassment should be the minimum standard expected, in both student accommodation and student life also”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7OEVNBFY5AG7CJC4PCPD5I2GU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Minister said “it is critical higher education institutions – indeed all places of work and study – take proactive steps when issues of concern are brought to their attention”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSTDFWWZWZENHONRXMQHGZQZZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Deputies will be aware that universities are autonomous under our code in Ireland. But I state very clearly on the record of the Dáil that there is an expectation they would take proactive steps.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DSZRHYJVYBEQJCGIKYQJCROT6Q","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BIIIC4SJTVAQNDNEVP5GN2WRGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"University of Limerick student alleges shouting and bullying behaviour with no remedial action taken by accommodation provider when first contacted"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T19:32:07.402Z","headlines":{"basic":"WhatsApp group of 200 young men created to target woman in her student accommodation, Dáil hears ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"QMEHU4QIMNHR5HEDGUMRYI6T4A","auth":{"1":"564a261f01dcce6d545854c622f36687890b6ebdbf32eae6ef13fa27ee3846e0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/QMEHU4QIMNHR5HEDGUMRYI6T4A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"},{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Oireachtas"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/woman-student-harassed-by-200-young-men-in-whatsapp-group-dail-hears/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"5Z322WGOZBDQRCL5O4OHUXRJSY","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/opposition-loses-confidence-in-verona-murphy-as-the-lowry-deal-haunts-government/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DBAXB2YNCZGO5FOBXXSDA2QRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\">Verona Murphy</a> no longer enjoys the confidence of the Opposition following another day of uproar over speaking rights in Dáil Éireann. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EXKXXVJF2VDQFNQHYAGARBCJFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the height of the commotion <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a>, the Tipperary TD made <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/video/video/2025/03/26/michael-lowry-criticised-for-hand-gestures-during-intense-day-in-dail/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/video/video/2025/03/26/michael-lowry-criticised-for-hand-gestures-during-intense-day-in-dail/\">a rude gesture</a> that was captured on camera, providing the Opposition with a perfect image to sum up what they say is wrong with the Government’s approach to the dispute. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"O2726PP7BVBO3NB2QQS3BHRDHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On today’s podcast Jack Horgan-Jones and Cormac McQuinn join Hugh Linehan to explain what has been happening in Leinster House over the past two days and why the involvement of Lowry in the deal that created the Government is proving a much bigger problem than Michéal Martin anticipated. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T16:40:49.459Z","headlines":{"basic":"Opposition loses confidence in Verona Murphy as the Lowry deal haunts Government","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM","auth":{"1":"1df3d9a06aa9c4794c7dd5812d67e229df9afa7c58bb88f7a448f64127e54c9d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM.JPG"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":1615.725714,"episodeTitle":"The row over speaking rights dominated Tuesday and Wednesday's Dáil proceedings","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/episodes/67e4265bd6912226b5b35063.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/opposition-loses-confidence-in-verona-murphy-as-the-lowry-deal-haunts-government/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"ZKJWF7WFXZC4FDBD27IOLKPFAE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":256,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f6dd6e17-0ed8-4e36-aa00-50870df88e4a/versions/1743007221/media/d33258014f28d791645c745d14d0b4d5_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/man-jailed-for-posting-online-threats-to-kill-mary-lou-mcdonald-and-garda-commissioner-drew-harris/","content_elements":[{"_id":"BBDIXVCDJ5A4XGJUKHWKK5ISUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A man who posted videos on TikTok in which he made threats to kill or harm Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris has been jailed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTYLTTIJJVEF5FO4K5PQILR2II","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard Richard McGreevy (29) of Whitechurch Place, Rathfarmham, Co Dublin, posted the videos on July 16th last. He pleaded guilty to two counts of making a threat to kill or cause harm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AOKYE5PRX5GOHJSP7QOEGGCCUI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6KLSBPMPERHCZGA7XLTWDYTYN4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QISTM37OGJBUZI552U4PK2THRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The videos were viewed thousands of times, and were also reposted to Facebook and X, formerly Twitter, the court was told. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWZO5UYINVH6ZFKMKTFXFWLTQE","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKFITT7MQVGDRGN35ZZKRMTXAI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7TDJWHS3Q5B2ZHFEJAKE5ZYJBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"James Dwyer SC, defending, said his client is not a “political idealogue”, but rather an isolated, “lonely keyboard warrior” who acted “from impulse, not malice”, and failed to realise the impact of his actions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WZWF7SBZZVHZPDQHDHMJXZX4NY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Sinn Féin leader and the Garda Commissioner were not in court during the sentence hearing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TXQD2ASIRJBBFO2M5OCY2CSLW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a victim impact statement read to the court by Antonia Boyle BL, prosecuting, Ms McDonald said like others in the public eye, she had become accustomed to “routine abuse, aggression and causal threats” on social media.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JYXKZJI7UFDJDFHJFNHFNYKFQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"This was different however, the court heard: “The direct threat to shoot me, to shoot me ‘for free’, the open willingness to harm me himself, and the implicit willingness to harm me on behalf of another.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"7WOZYWVNXJBGPGQLVHJAIVB6DY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said the video presentation was “bizarre, maybe even laughable”, but the threat was “real and chilling”. “I was afraid and angry. My family were enraged and afraid”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HVQGGXZHQFBXDCD6RBBQQ45ZIY","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6GF2BLJTKNFAZCHLVXOMG44RIE","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IGQCA4G4SNHVJE5CCBINXCXEMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said the threat caused her distress, anxiety and anger, but she added “I will not allow any bully to stop me from doing my job”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBB5APXEMRF7RJYAYCWU2YBRZA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTIUZIZ2LJBWVDV5PYJG3P4YE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Commissioner Harris declined to provide a victim impact statement, the court was told, as his view was his statement of complaint captured the impact on him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6Y6DATQIMFFWNJE62JVYM5CE4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The clips on social media were played for Judge Martin Nolan from a laptop.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2QVR6LKQJBVLMRY34JRLX4GZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In them, McGreevy said “Drew Harris, you should be f***ing taken out”, “dragged up to Dolphin’s Barn”, “taken to Dublin Castle” and executed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T6FPIDXE2VANFPUHUWDWMDAKQI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WEX2SKXYKRA4RNDTQ4ZU3RE6BM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FSE5RHGL6VFDFPR46U2XJJX37E","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QOALGK7LEVDD5LXYWQPR4CE22M","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LG5ZBMAAIVFQLA6WZOH626QW3M","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5H2WEAL3VFIFLO4ACOGW6RIFA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SIH7M5ID4BFC7OH5I6XGC3M47Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"McGreevy was arrested and, after caution, he said “this is about those f***ing posts to kill Mary Lou. They were f***ing stupid.”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3M7OTXJWXJCSFCOF4ZYKTHS5EU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He told gardaí he had never had a video that had been viewed so many times, that he didn’t mean for it to go viral and he had taken it down.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RPBTPKCWJZFWTM4GJWMW35SGXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He expressed shame and remorse, saying he didn’t mean for anyone to feel hurt or threatened, but had wanted to rant, before acknowledging he shouldn’t have said those things. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTU2RFC3MZFTXB672HZYBDSMSY","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VW7UDR6FDFE4BLWO72ZFY5WUTI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXHMFKHD5RAQ7K2BIJ7SQGPKCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Dwyer outlined his client’s background, including that McGreevy had been using cannabis since he was a teenager but was drug-free since going into custody. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AUN5LILJ3ZBVFIYCZHHZYYUSRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He noted McGreevy has an acquired brain injury and suffered physical abuse as a child at the hands of a relative.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2S6TL2BYI5FYLOZ2M47ZQ3DG24","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"A4RSF3Q4YRHVRGHNCQPXNWBJ4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Imposing sentence, Judge Nolan said these were “extreme and frightening threats” to two public figures, who were entitled to their peace of mind.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HQU4ZAOYXJHDXOIETAHMHFWA2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the videos would have been “very disturbing” for the injured parties, who would have a “very valid belief that contributions like this poison social discourse and give permission to certain individuals to behave in a certain violent way, particularly to public individuals”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCNLNM2XIRERLLZHASQR55K2Q4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUWFPE5SOBDHDFBS2SHZTJVNEI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZAHSMFT2B5GDPH2GN3IIWNTIBU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6ZWVJCKYPNEDNKSNNF7KEEBLX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge Nolan imposed a three-and-a-half year prison sentence, with the final 15 months suspended on strict conditions. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FSHEBDBKCVDETFGRUDJZBU74KU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJ4VMWE37JAQRMNNXNTIQNQYYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NQUFHSUQ35B4VM3NKUSF45BG3A","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ST3D2KNW4ZDCRHUVP4X6W4HUNI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"D6RHUK2AMFEYTGZUUZLJDZN6JY","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3RXRELDMFZC6PCA4YFCS5GBLLM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ZYC4OPJWNEFBHZBLYDKRHG2YA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"I36WFRWSABHD3NN4WBUTTNQ7MA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6W2CZVTQU5DM5DTGSYKA3SCGD4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEFD4US37VGK7J4IHWQ7PPSKHE","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"56CBNMBMYBA53DYVUR4XMZUUCM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"X7JS4SPMZVA2TMGYAHMUHGWFNM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XQEU7WIWBJFVHHKQAOW7JDT6QQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZET4VXXSQ5FNDANOE253BRLHJI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"INOTEE63VNDCHME6NWRHGNFSIY","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KHYLG4BWYBGRNJEU7JT434DRK4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QYFRZGNSBZHYVICE4YSI3TWGQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OV6DVBKDRNATTLGSTGX6OJXCMM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V3DG7DGFYBFBXEA4SZS57MFQEU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WXQMJUQG6RCKNGWBLEPGSROPLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XA7U3AZNF5EU5JL3IAKFYFVSRU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3HHRANPYNBHCJGCWZSUY6PR3R4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SS2AOT4TIBFY3NZY66N7IGISOM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SQA76RZ6GJA6NE2RGLQ6WWAQMU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Eimear Dodd"}]},"description":{"basic":"Richard McGreevy’s videos were viewed thousands of times on TikTok and were also reposted to Facebook and X"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T16:35:15.779Z","headlines":{"basic":"Man jailed for posting online threats against Mary Lou McDonald and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris","native":"Mary Lou McDonald tells court she was afraid after a ‘threat of a coward’ to shoot her"},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IBCGKNHECVGRBAHPIJCNZLNZXA","auth":{"1":"633e9ae04b0422be039464e1b53a2c223335d7c333deb2e48241ab735a551b77"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IBCGKNHECVGRBAHPIJCNZLNZXA.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/man-jailed-for-posting-online-threats-to-kill-mary-lou-mcdonald-and-garda-commissioner-drew-harris/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"YO6KOQIYR5DBBF5WDXCMMH3QYE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":198,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/07f4b19f-cbaa-49cf-8028-760a8c60db4f/versions/1742997979/media/034f70669d6b4d4585ad08b48cfd1bca_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/26/teens-presenting-at-eds-with-psychosis-from-legal-semi-synthentic-cannabis-product-says-leading-psychiatrist/","content_elements":[{"_id":"GQOPOUBIWRD2LM4RIGKFMGSX5A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787808},"content":"An increasing number of teenagers are presenting to hospital emergency departments (EDs) experiencing psychosis induced by legally available, semi-synthetic cannabis <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/vaping/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/vaping/\">vaping</a> products, a leading psychiatrist has said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6KH56AU5ZZAIVJBQKIVTKXLOAE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787809},"content":"Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a new semi-synthetic cannabinoid product that is chemically like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive substance found in cannabis that produces a “high”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RV4OHQ3FEZCQNGEBCHK5VNFUOE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787810},"content":"It is legally available to purchase in high-street shops and online, though is not recommended by health professionals.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7YWM4VU3SRBJHKEM3DHBV56L4E","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787811},"content":"Mary Cannon, professor of psychiatric epidemiology and youth mental health at the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/royal-college-of-surgeons/\" target=\"_blank\">Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (RCSI)</a>, and consultant psychiatrist in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/beaumont-hospital/\" target=\"_blank\">Beaumont Hospital</a> Dublin, said every two or three weeks the Dublin hospital receives a young patient experiencing psychosis induced by these products.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6BGQBI2VNRDGDBHOS43MBS3EBA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787812},"content":"“We see young people with psychosis very frequently in the ED. They become very paranoid, agitated and aggressive. They have lost touch with reality,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4PIFN7MARAYZOCXR3HYHGV5HY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787813},"content":"“Often it is their parents who are bringing them in. It is the parents who bear the brunt of it; they’re seeing their young people change before their eyes. And sometimes they are picked up by the gardaí.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7RIZIJT75E23HQ4HEXFGYF3I4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787814},"content":"Prof Cannon said the problem is these people are given a false sense of security about the safety of the products, due to the fact they’re legally available.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DDWNO2SIS5GIBFAKGEUKE6776U","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787815},"content":"“They can go in and buy it and there’s no warnings on it. I just don’t think they know of the risks,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6J5YSHAHNBHD3GH5TIMF7Y2HEY","additional_properties":{"_id":"MBJHCKLH4JAK3JRUPPH56CEIQA"},"content":"TCD study: Lower attention abilities in teenagers linked to later cigarette and cannabis use","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"22NX25WZABDTLNPLRQXAI4K3WQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787816},"content":"The psychiatrist also warned of the increased potency of illegal cannabis products, which she said has contributed to the number of murders committed by people experiencing cannabis-induced psychosis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VRSYUT74VVDLHL7YMUWFHNUBYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787817},"content":"“Cannabis used to have a higher rate of CBD, or cannabidiol, to THC. It’s (CBD) like a mild sedative and that’s where the term being stoned came from because it relaxed people,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3735YUQL25FALANXWGTQJWCKVE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787818},"content":"“But now the substance has changed. THC has gone from 1 per cent to at least 10 per cent, making people more paranoid. But we haven’t got to the really high potency that we see in the (United) States.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GWKNK22INRASPMTS6UZSSU6EAU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787819},"content":"Prof Cannon attributed the rise in potency to the legalisation of cannabis in certain jurisdictions, such as Canada.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JXXB4VV7GBCWLNSL4Q2BOS6MDU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787820},"content":"“Now you have the legal market competing with the illegal market. It is driving up potency, and that is having a ripple effect across the world,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DGXBM5IZZVEOZHFUKV477ENDJA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787821},"content":"Prof Cannon was speaking before an event organised by the RCSI, which will explore how cannabis affects brain development and mental health in young people.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ER4PT3YIGRF6BFYY26LWMRHRUA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787822},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/health-service-executive\" target=\"_blank\">Health Service Executive (HSE)</a> has also raised concerns about the increasing potency of cannabis products and the impact the availability of HHC is having on young people.","type":"text"},{"_id":"54ZCPFZQRJASNO4AXPIY5FDM34","additional_properties":{"_id":1742992787823},"content":"The HSE said there has been a “concerning” increase in the number of children and teenagers presenting to addiction services with mental health problems due to the substance.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Shauna Bowers"}},"name":"Shauna Bowers"}]},"description":{"basic":"Mary Cannon says parents are bearing brunt as they see children ‘change before their eyes’"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T13:16:59.451Z","headlines":{"basic":"Teens presenting at EDs with psychosis from legal, semi-synthentic cannabis vaping product, says leading psychiatrist","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"AMRVR42ZE4MLI2Z452HAANP3YQ","auth":{"1":"61f62e0dd5c2b804ce5c83cb8a57f74d5ce444774e5d392482bbebaebfdf550a"},"focal_point":{"x":2190,"y":1200},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/AMRVR42ZE4MLI2Z452HAANP3YQ.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"AM335RHGFK3DCVGOAZOZ6MCMLA","type":"image"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Health"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/26/teens-presenting-at-eds-with-psychosis-from-legal-semi-synthentic-cannabis-product-says-leading-psychiatrist/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"Q4OJZ7YGNZHOVNGHKF6QD56VSM","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/26/unprecedented-and-chaotic-scenes-in-the-dail/","content_elements":[{"_id":"3534RLCPNZH7TISWMXJYQEKJYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Good morning. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LOPZRBFTQFBGJGHAJXVMBUQZAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“A farce”. “A sham”. “A shameless political stroke that would even make Bertie blush”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5I3GHHB3LFFZFJLLZL6FJ7VKUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Those were the words used in the Dáil yesterday as the Government <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/\">pushed through its changes to amend standing orders</a> to give time to Michael Lowry and other Government-supporting Independents to ask questions of the Taoiseach or Tánaiste.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4PUMFVHO6JDD5F4KHFJGUBDXCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The speaking rights row continues to rumble on after more unprecedented and chaotic scenes in the chamber on Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JI4TJ5SMJVEFNETOPO4ILTKXPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It dominates this morning’s political coverage with the image of Mr Lowry giving two fingers to People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy featured on some of those. (Mr Lowry has said he was merely “beckoning” the Dublin South-West TD “to sit down”).","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFTG36FHKVBTNAPN6AZVAUBDJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"After much heckling, disruption and a brief suspension, the Government’s proposals were passed by a margin of 94 to 74 votes, though Opposition tellers refused to sign the paper confirming the vote. Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy declared it carried and tried to move onto Taoiseach’s questions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NOEW7EA2TFAUXI7AUK2QJBWJRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"There was overwhelming noise from the Opposition benches and Ms Murphy adjourned proceedings for the day at around 3.45pm <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\">with shouts of “shame, shame, shame”</a> as Government TDs exited the chamber. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q7FFWVDE5JH7TITI4NLNNQTPNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a joint media conference on the plinth afterwards, the six Opposition leaders accused the Coalition of giving “two fingers” to democracy by ramming through the changes. Much of their focus was on the role played by Ms Murphy during the proceedings with the leaders accusing her of working with the Government in an orchestrated fashion to push the vote through. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPX34XKT2JAGXDXKRJI6RARCMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy told Opposition TDs they were “making a holy show of yourselves” during the continued interruptions. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TULCMH4D6VFJHMENJF7MIYE5WA","additional_properties":{},"content":"As Harry McGee and Pat Leahy report this morning, Opposition leaders <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/\">stopped short of tabling a motion of no confidence</a> in the Ceann Comhairle. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UUIIJHLXOFAGRN7KU257QZDQQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the scenes in the Dáil “marked a new low in the behaviour of the Opposition”. He said the events were “nothing less” than an attempt to “bully and intimidate the Ceann Comhairle”. Fianna Fáil parliamentary party members have also accused the Opposition of bullying Ms Murphy and treating Oireachtas staff unacceptably. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KQHNM75YM5EVNLQV3OPDZCC7BE","additional_properties":{},"content":"So what happens now? The Dáil is due to resume at 9am while the Opposition leaders will meet this morning. All eyes will be on what they decide to do next and how the Ceann Comhairle will respond. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3XSQTRAL5JBM5I6CNX5TAUCU2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Follow irishtimes.com for updates throughout the day. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZSDJW5LWXVC3XJVZX6ZQJXQMDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"***","type":"text"},{"_id":"UOK3YBEXVNFYTLS7KFTC32QB3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Elsewhere, US president Donald Trump <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/us/2025/03/26/trump-downplays-unprecedented-self-inflicted-us-security-breach-as-the-only-glitch-in-two-months/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/us/2025/03/26/trump-downplays-unprecedented-self-inflicted-us-security-breach-as-the-only-glitch-in-two-months/\">has moved to downplay the gravity of a security breach</a> after a journalist said national security adviser Michael Waltz inadvertently included him in a discussion of highly sensitive war plans on the messaging app Signal. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WY4YKGIOSVAL7ETREKANL5SOEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jeffrey Goldberg, editor of The Atlantic, said in a report on Monday that Mr Waltz unexpectedly added him to an encrypted chat group on the app, coordinating US action against the Yemen rebel group over its attacks on Red Sea shipping.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWXCLH7Z6FFHDDEW7PO4G45AOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the group, called Houthi PC small group, Mr Waltz tasked his deputy Alex Wong with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/us/2025/03/25/pete-hegseth-texted-me-the-war-plan-how-top-us-officials-shared-military-strike-details-in-group-chat-with-journalist/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/us/2025/03/25/pete-hegseth-texted-me-the-war-plan-how-top-us-officials-shared-military-strike-details-in-group-chat-with-journalist/\">setting up a “tiger team” to coordinate US action against the Houthis</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JJKOBTLETBBFZFEIZW23AXZTIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Trump has described the breach as “the only glitch in two months and it turned out not to be a serious one.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"VMNXNFXZEFATZJJ6ATBHBY6CDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a telephone interview with NBC, Mr Trump defended Mr Waltz and said he had learned a lesson and was “a good man”. He later stated that his official should not apologise. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TZ5DYGDSLFEQ3FEHI5WX4ZQDTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt characterised Mr Goldberg, who was widely praised for his restrained reporting of the unfettered access to which he was privy for four consecutive days, as a journalist “well known for his sensational spin”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AOBA2VFOVNF6VJIVQVUXRGOFN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meanwhile, Ukraine and Russia <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/2025/03/25/russia-ukraine-war-ceasefire-talks-latest-news/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/2025/03/25/russia-ukraine-war-ceasefire-talks-latest-news/\">have agreed to a US-brokered halt to hostilities in the Black Sea</a>. The warring neighbours warned that Washington must play a key role to ensure the deal does not collapse.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3G34YFA63VCJZL5TLP77PVIK6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The White House said on Tuesday that three days of talks in Saudi Arabia had yielded commitments from Ukraine and Russia “to ensure safe navigation, eliminate the use of force, and prevent the use of commercial vessels for military purposes in the Black Sea”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U5UFSBVXCZEZVBPAV3B5D43R7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Best Reads </b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"2ORIOF7L3JGJXFW7TCLYLNJNTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Miriam Lord has <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/miriam-lord-lowry-gives-master-class-in-smug-ingratitude-amid-dail-chaos-over-speaking-time/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/miriam-lord-lowry-gives-master-class-in-smug-ingratitude-amid-dail-chaos-over-speaking-time/\">a great piece on yesterday’s Dáil sitting</a> and notes how Michael Lowry goaded and gesticulated from his seat at the back of the chamber. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XWXKZBIEFJDMHDESTNCUEWP274","additional_properties":{},"content":"Analysis from Pat Leahy on why the scenes in the Dáil were more raucous, more bitter and likely <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/restive-dail-behaviour-brings-coalition-and-opposition-into-disrepute/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/restive-dail-behaviour-brings-coalition-and-opposition-into-disrepute/\">more repellant to many people watching</a> than the first instalment of the speaking rights row.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WGEA4U5MQ5ELXNGWFQ2R4RXWZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Martin Wall looks at how there has been a steady stream of former politicians <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/26/former-taoisigh-among-steady-stream-of-politicians-turning-to-pr-lobbying-firms/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/26/former-taoisigh-among-steady-stream-of-politicians-turning-to-pr-lobbying-firms/\">becoming involved in lobbying, public relations and consultancy</a> over recent years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QGUJSK3TEVBUPIYW6DD26ZOSPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mark Hilliard has a roundup of the latest from the Web Summit trial with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/25/web-summit-court-case/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/25/web-summit-court-case/\">a direct appeal from the trial judge to pursue a mediated settlement</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3432RXFPFNE55IZIGZ5U56CZBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Róisín Ingle has a powerful column on <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2025/03/26/roisin-ingle-i-was-mortified-by-how-much-kate-middletons-message-affected-me/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2025/03/26/roisin-ingle-i-was-mortified-by-how-much-kate-middletons-message-affected-me/\">how she is not as afraid of cancer content she comes across online</a>. Daffodil Day, which is the biggest fundraising day for cancer societies, is this Friday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KC2IQVBNNNDO7FSOG26O7JC5MQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Playbook </b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"YMIMTLSG3JCP5GZVHMAJRBFUYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Oireachtas schedule, which could be subject to some change given yesterday’s events, lists topical issues for 9.12am. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E6P5BDVLQJFAJE5ILSYQRAXOK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Social Democrats have a Private Members’ motion on the triple lock mechanism and Irish neutrality. The party is calling for a plebiscite or public vote on the Government’s changes to the arrangements under which members of the Defence Forces may be deployed for service outside of the State.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AGWM532OANB4HDLCFTPUFNHJKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Leaders’ Questions are up next at noon, followed by questions on policy or legislation and then statements on the recent European Council meeting. There is a raft of legislation up for debate across the afternoon and evening, including the Statute Law Revision Bill 2024, the Social Welfare (Bereaved Partner’s Pension) Bill 2025 and Údarás na Gaeltachta (Amendment) Bill 2024. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ZT6WC45DJC4HFABU3EZKUDEJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Deferred divisions are listed for 9.30pm with the Dáil due to adjourn at 10pm. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2Q3JX6YVKBH2PADYDNK7FBG2BQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the Seanad, the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (Amendment) Bill 2023, which aims to strengthen protections for financial consumers in Ireland, is at second stage. There is also a Private Members’ motion on the provision of special education. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SG453HEBDZEJJGJMEAH3ICT6IY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The full Oireachtas schedule <a href=\"https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/detailed-schedule/?tab=dail \" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/detailed-schedule/?tab=dail \">can be found here</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MSGNUVV7MRBPLEK65B6I265LYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i>Sign up for </i><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/media/2023/11/07/stay-informed-with-push-alerts-from-the-irish-times-delivered-straight-to-your-phone/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i>Politics push alerts</i></a><i> and have the best news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone</i>","type":"text"},{"_id":"PRRACAOWINGB3ILIO2IVOOBMRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i>Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up for the </i><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/newsletters/inside-politics-newsletter/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/newsletters/inside-politics-newsletter/\"><i>Inside Politics</i></a><i> newsletter to get our politics team’s take direct to your inbox.</i>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWCEU33BIBFD5MOQKYUIBDMLKM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"WZ5GV55IDVGEXLUM4PKTMILQMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Sarah Burns"}},"name":"Sarah Burns"}]},"description":{"basic":"Speaking rights row once again leads to the adjournment of proceedings for the day"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T07:49:25.784Z","headlines":{"basic":"Unprecedented and chaotic scenes in the Dáil","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Inside Politics Newsletter"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"UKWSCRDECP7SW4WSBQVH5WKZCE","auth":{"1":"7119f3673bf062db8a87fa96a78510e548adc6e9160cdfca7bde23db7c12bece"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/UKWSCRDECP7SW4WSBQVH5WKZCE.JPG"}},"subtype":"editors-note","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/26/unprecedented-and-chaotic-scenes-in-the-dail/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"RKNVRQBZ7JFC5PMGID4XR4VL6I","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":365,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/947eab4d-8e40-4923-aa6c-3edeb4fc0a15/versions/1742923541/media/5c3c4ac7325b12d46982a04b1bfd5457_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/26/former-taoisigh-among-steady-stream-of-politicians-turning-to-pr-lobbying-firms/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"KC6R4RG63ZCE5HAR7NSTTEQIKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"U34VBFEAHJHOLISSJMURPLSD2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/24/leo-varadkar-takes-job-with-us-based-public-relations-firm/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/24/leo-varadkar-takes-job-with-us-based-public-relations-firm/\">Announcing the appointment</a> of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/leo-varadkar/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/leo-varadkar/\">Leo Varadkar</a> to its global advisory board this week, the Penta group in Washington, DC, said the former taoiseach had extensive policy expertise and an unwavering commitment to fact-based decision-making that would be a significant asset to its clients.","type":"text"},{"_id":"42XIMUMTNBAOJEDURKPT5A2FZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the world of media, public relations and public affairs in Dublin, there has been considerable curiosity about Varadkar’s future plans. But there did not appear to be a lot of surprise at his new role.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K5LA3KAPCVGF5LWA5LQJDYWJEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"In recent years, there has been a steady stream of former politicians becoming involved in lobbying, public relations and consultancy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KRFNTJ2ZFNC23KD52IUAM7DHSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Varadkar is not even the first former occupant of the Taoiseach’s office to go down that road.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MKXBL25IOVD3TPGWA5K3UCTV3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"His predecessor <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/enda-kenny/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/enda-kenny/\">Enda Kenny</a> joined the board of Heneghan Strategic Communications in 2021 as a non-executive director, although it is understood he is not involved in any advocacy or lobbying carried out by the company.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4HFZHEZLCVBNZB6GFF6JDZVNBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The firm’s managing director, Nigel Heneghan, said Kenny had been “an excellent addition to the board, where his experience, insights and guidance are of great importance, as the company, an independent Irish-owned business, looks to navigate future challenges and opportunities”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7MJGCMQBA5CYFEA7XA7QHCYVA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former tánaiste Mary Harney was appointed as a senior adviser to the communications and public affairs consultancy Hanover Communications in 2017.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CFFYPJRLX5DZTAO6QGRYEOW57Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"The company said she provided “consultancy and advisory services to a range of corporate clients in the technology, healthcare, pharmaceutical and financial services sectors”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2YB26EKRJZGR3GBKUAKXHXZKIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Leo Varadkar takes job with US-based public relations firm","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"P4ZTG3Y5AFFZVO2JGEQPMN2BBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The former Fine Gael TD for Kerry <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/brendan-griffin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/brendan-griffin/\">Brendan Griffin</a> is also a senior adviser with Hanover. The company said on its website that he brought “significant experience of government and policymaking”, having been minister of state with responsibility for tourism from 2017 to 2020.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PM2HGORW45EOHAXRA77M4GIKXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"A number of other former politicians such as <a href=\"https://Lucinda Creighton\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://Lucinda Creighton\">Lucinda Creighton</a> and Lorraine Higgins have established their own companies while Jim Glennon, who was a Fianna Fáil TD, is the chairman of public relations company Edelman in Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LOLQUZHAIND6LN56XQK35U4Q7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"But why would public relations or public affairs companies want to have former politicians on board?","type":"text"},{"_id":"2CFCE2PLJFFWZOGW6VHX4RHKFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"One senior figure in the world of public relationssaid there were “hard and soft” reasons.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NQDADXH56NFAHBVA5WOLHKXHNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said a former senior politician should have skills, experience and insight that can be very relevant and provide real value to big organisations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YM2F3GAG5RCAHMVWQZAMZX7UA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“A former senior politician should have knowledge of policy areas and policy matters and a network that can bring perspective on issues of the day,” he said. “This network can bring experience which can then be blended with those of the political figure.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"26MGWIVL2BFU5IWRXYYGPHEYPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He suggested it was more than politicians being paid for “who they know”. He said equally important was the knowledge as to how policy is shaped and decided.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6HQEXD4KKFBHRAQXG4BEQRXMB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the “soft reason” behind such appointments is that they can enhance the status of the organisation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FAB4H3GKVVGPDIBFZRU42IBHKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Another individual with significant experience in the sector drew distinctions between senior politicians who become directly involved in lobbying and those who work at more arm’s length, serving on boards or advisory groups.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FNN4DCSOEBALFHTNESJACTDWN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former Leo Varadkar adviser hired as speechwriter for Ursula von der Leyen","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"A62LIMLP2NA3BHEMPDPS7GDGUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"They said senior politicians may have “been in the room” and be aware of how thinking is evolving on particular issues including potential obstacles. All this may be of considerable importance if the politician has experience at EU or international level.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R7ZBVTWDPRB7PCBSHQNPMZHE6E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Another senior industry figure pointed to another advantage : former politicians have automatic access to Leinster House, where they can meet serving TDs and Ministers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5DWZ6D3NFZBZPLZMOU2PXNYALI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Such knowledge and access can be lucrative. One industry insider told of a former minister who had sought fees of about €80,000 a year to serve on the board of an Irish public relations/public affairs company.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S4LSRGZBSVGRPPQ4E7CEBTD4IA","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, there are also rules aimed at preventing a revolving door of former politicians and officials seeking to lobby their former colleagues.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PUWPFSQADREFNIN3SOMA3XP2CA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under legislation lobbyists have to be registered while certain designated public officials are subject to a one-year “cooling-off” period. However the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/standards-in-public-office-commission-sipo/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/standards-in-public-office-commission-sipo/\">Standards in Public Office Commission </a>(Sipo) can waive or reduce this requirement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2NN6UGO4XBARRILFT4MSWH4MLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former Fine Gael ministers earn revenues of more than €1 million through their consultancies ","type":"header"},{"_id":"RIOPSZ4DUZCUTAV4YTFJSIAIMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"HMH4IUKENFHU7IX6VLZMGKWCZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former European commissioner <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/phil-hogan/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/phil-hogan/\">Phil Hogan</a> has declared revenue of €1 million from his consultancy firm, which advises corporate clients","type":"text"},{"_id":"LBZDEBLLEZDRPJFANRKZL6LDGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Filings with the EU transparency register show that Hogan’s business consultancy firm has the objective of providing high-level advice and services for company management and supporting stakeholder relationships.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5L7APS7CR5DSJIIQND2VHVR7ZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The figures show the company, Triton Advisory UL trading as Hogan Strategic Advisory Services, had annual revenue of greater than or equal to €1 million.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XLXPJPZ3UVBAPPBVR6WSMMO26A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Clients who had been represented by the firm include mobile phone group Vodafone and credit card firm Visa, which paid fees of between €200,000 and €299,000 in 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O7IJ4YBBYBFVVFRWMTVQHNBDXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The filing state that clients in the current financial year include metal and glass packaging company Ardagh plc, law firm DLA Piper and banking giant JP Morgan. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3KPPYABVMRAD3IH5Z4CCUNN3YY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Separate filings also show that that Vulcan Consulting Limited, founded by former Minister of State for European Affairs Lucinda Creighton, also has revenue of equal to or greater than €1 million.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZFJZ4UJ2HRE4VOL4YFPBU2KBGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the last financial year until early 2024, it received fees of between €50,000 and €99,000 from tech companies Apple and Amazon as well as from the Irish pharmaceutical representative body, IPHA. It reported revenue of between €200,000 and €299,000 from Analog Devices and electronics manufacturer Teksend Photomask. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CRDLGHJ3V5C3JF6Y4VMNWYTXS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y6QUMSZDKNEADHTBVU5I24E3BI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FN4ENULH5VASBD2M6O7EIQAYZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"HX7X7BMGX5EZZFPYYHPP3HA3C4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"ZR7MS5BGUFHVVKSMBBMNA22W6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"DFCXSSGY25BJJB4TEU5X3SZK7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Martin Wall"}},"name":"Martin Wall"}]},"description":{"basic":"Official rules restrict activities of former politicians seeking to influence those still serving but fees for consultancy can be lucrative "},"display_date":"2025-03-26T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Former taoisigh among steady stream of politicians turning to lucrative career in PR-lobbying firms","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"MERCRHQIJVGXFCJQKBC6RTQXIU","auth":{"1":"81a7f1490aa5668aa0cc08019e181b108b18f26482e2ce12da7ca91573cf5836"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/MERCRHQIJVGXFCJQKBC6RTQXIU.JPG"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/26/former-taoisigh-among-steady-stream-of-politicians-turning-to-pr-lobbying-firms/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"FZ63UERFWJBTTCNKKL2AHJDUUA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":225,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5a454888-de43-4f6b-be1d-ff8d2fe0088b/versions/1742916479/media/5566d5a4c8f9d427b5a1915fa37a0c93_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/26/lack-of-up-to-date-knife-crime-statistics-criticised-as-quite-incredible/","content_elements":[{"_id":"MYKHTZJP7JD23KNDZVT7OLOJ7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"A lack of up-to-date statistics relating to crimes carried out with a knife has been criticised as “quite incredible” by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/aontu/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/aontu/\">Aontú </a>leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peadar-toibin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peadar-toibin/\">Peadar Tóibín</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2E6DS7WLHJADZCQDD7IDTDUVRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He made the remarks after Minister for Justice <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\">Jim O’Callaghan</a> was unable to provide him with information on the number of arrests for carrying a knife or how many crimes were carried out with a knife over the last five years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EM2QFR3T7BEMXIHGWOV3ORGTGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"This is because there is no single category for knife crime, as distinct from crimes carried out with all kinds of weapons, in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-garda-siochana/5/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-garda-siochana/5/\">Garda</a> Pulse computer system.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HB27FIWTBZCWVIY7X7OMAGF66E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Garda analysis service is compiling overall statistics related to knife crime, the first such report since 2021.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JP74VLRWM5CRRLL5YPD5KOQQ4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr O’Callaghan told Mr Tóibín that this will “provide further insight on the variety of contexts in which a knife may be a feature of an incident, including being used to threaten or to commit actual violence”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F2LTAHAEWZEGTEHK6DEPPYW6BU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said it is anticipated that this report will be published in the coming months.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HZHNLM3R7NAGBKRUMFGIKKCHJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Tóibín said “given the prevalence of knife crime and the large number of very serious and high-profile crimes committed with a knife, it’s quite incredible that knife crime is not even measured by the Government”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTK4AM624JFRJOK2UQ5XYROFAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He was provided with figures for the number of knives seized in the last five years, with 2,157 seized in 2024. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QCUQ6WDXGFG2HINQH5PJGDP2UY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Tóibín said: “The Government needs to get real about knife crime in Ireland. This needs to start with knowing what’s actually happening on the ground”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ONAUOZ4DHNAYZAMTFRK5YNVETY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement to The Irish Times, the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/department-of-justice/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/department-of-justice/\">Department of Justice</a> said: “The Government is committed to ensuring that communities are safe and tackling knife crime is an important element of that.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYIZOU6RTJFGZDQ57J2P27YHCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It added: “There are no quick-fix solutions to tackling knife crime” and “long-term, evidence-based strategies are needed that address knife crime as part of a wider strategic response to antisocial behaviour, street violence, youth offending and domestic violence”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EHPXPWGPC5AVJFNULMTUZUADFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It said there is a “a comprehensive and robust legal framework in place” in relation to knife crime including increased penalties for certain offences involving carrying knives and the doubling of the maximum penalty for assault causing harm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2IING7SCNBJPKHYHKNJ464XJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"A Garda statement said Operation Soteria, in place since 2019, is focused on the prevention of assaults and associated crimes, including knife crime. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBDPXX2LMFHFFB4QTPSGPNCIMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It said the strategy “is a pro-arrest, early-investigation, proactive, high-visibility approach to assault reduction” and it “promotes early prosecution of offenders where feasible and appropriate”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PEJCD5XBDJHCZMN4OWARWY7NBQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Garda said the work being done to compile statistics on knife crime “is being carried out to inform Garda activity to prevent and detect such crimes”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RYMD2BVF6BCZXKCQPWHG66XNCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It also said: “An Garda Síochána, through its community policing ethos, continues to work with communities, groups and individuals to keep people safe.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XBWFLJQOA5BYZFA4RGQNDBPMLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Garda analysis of knife crime data from 2021 found “a reduction in the number of incidents where knives were involved ... between 2019 and 2020 – 1,534 in 2019 versus 1,333 in 2020.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"S6IV6M7NSVH6TEYEOPTC2AWJSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It also mentioned “The most recent available HSE data (2005-2019) shows a general decline in hospital discharges following an assault by knife since 2006”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NTKQ6RWRZEOXCXLQNMYRPHFRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It added: “While there is no strong evidence to suggest that there has been any increase in crime incidents involving knives, the downward trend should not detract from the fact that there have been a number of very serious and fatal incidents in recent months”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"}]},"description":{"basic":"Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín makes remarks after Minister for Justice unable to provide information on such incidents "},"display_date":"2025-03-26T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Lack of up-to-date knife crime statistics criticised as ‘quite incredible’","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5R6PA733CZAVPE5BYFOTUJDPVA","auth":{"1":"941702d142ff00f401bd8a16e74ea8eba3ad67d0b37a540994fd0c2367c4c6d5"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5R6PA733CZAVPE5BYFOTUJDPVA.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/26/lack-of-up-to-date-knife-crime-statistics-criticised-as-quite-incredible/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"E4SADC6RCJCNRHG3RRDWA3CURE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":142,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/8b819c03-ad2e-4fc0-9cb4-0cdce7b5a3ba/versions/1742934833/media/827ac9efdd8ee4bfb8161182927b2cc8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/","content_elements":[{"_id":"BL4GUIAGVVFGLOU26DZDWQTQ7E","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030525},"content":"Opposition leaders stopped short last night of tabling a motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" target=\"_blank\">Verona Murphy</a> following her decision to push through a vote on controversial changes to speaking rights amid chaotic scenes in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Dáil</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NWKFHGZ5FDSREY3DGVLARGNKE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030526},"content":"In a show of unity, five Opposition leaders, representing 75 TDs, held a joint media conference on the plinth of Leinster House where they accused the Coalition of giving “two fingers” to democracy by ramming through new speaking slots for Government-supporting Independents, led by Tipperary North TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_blank\">Michael Lowry</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"42H7TCMLFJAYDOCUM2DGL55R6E","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030527},"content":"Much of their focus was on the role played by Ms Murphy in the proceedings, with Opposition leaders accusing her and the Government of working together to push the vote through.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5E2UH6VYD5G3VPKR65HDJSMNC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Analysis: Unruly Dáil scenes inevitable with Coalition and Opposition on collision course","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"EDOJ46HBJRCIXJPVBW6TXTMRRE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030528},"content":"A new group called “Other TDs” – comprised of the Lowry group and Government backbenchers – will be allowed two eight-minute slots a week to ask questions of the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4KDTYGAQYBASTABRQGSPVDRQFE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030529},"content":"“Nobody observing today’s business could have had any confidence in the way in which the Ceann Comhairle conducted herself,” said <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_blank\">Mary Lou McDonald</a>. “She put a wrecking ball through standing orders.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XRA5RBTUQFE5PFNOQFRBLDRU44","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030530},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/labour-party/\" target=\"_blank\">Labour</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_blank\">Ivana Bacik</a> said she was dismayed at Ms Murphy’s actions, while <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\">Cian O’Callaghan</a> of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_blank\">Social Democrats</a> said they were “highly questionable”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"DZDPNIIDYZEXTDYAPBBSJMOUFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"33QEL47CPZDTDISO2ST6LG4SKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030531},"content":"Michael Collins of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/independent-ireland/\" target=\"_blank\">Independent Ireland</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/richard-boyd-barrett/\" target=\"_blank\">Richard Boyd Barrett</a> of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/people-before-profit-alliance/\" target=\"_blank\">People Before Profit</a> honed in on a two-finger gesture made by Mr Lowry in the chamber, saying it typified the contempt shown to the people of Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AHCCNK46FBCGPM4JFIXMAS3PCY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030532},"content":"However, when pressed, the Opposition leaders would not say if they would table a motion against Ms Murphy, saying they needed time to reflect on the matter. Opposition leaders will meet today to discuss their next moves, including a possible motion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3B67LPH7BFFXDB4YXT3AXICBTU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030533},"content":"Further disruptions to Dáil business are likely. One senior figure said that there is “no way” the matter will rest here.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6D2ZMD5GOFEU5EGBICXSAXBC6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030534},"content":"The Dáil was suspended early yesterday amid much shouting, disruption and heckling. Ms Murphy told TDs they were “making an absolute show” of themselves” and said they had “no respect for the chair”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XREERTBW6ZGG3OV3D6NSADD4SA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030535},"content":"In a statement last night, Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Micheál Martin</a> claimed the scenes in the Dáil “marked a new low in the behaviour of the Opposition”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Opposition stops short of tabling motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle following her decision to push through vote on controversial changes"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Opposition leaders stop short of no confidence motion in Verona Murphy","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM","auth":{"1":"e4dddf0c3cf22263d603522020db01ff2753d07e887e2c58adfd22e4d702692e"},"focal_point":{"x":2193,"y":1108},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750","embed_html":"<div class=\"powa\" id=\"powa-acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750\" data-org=\"irishtimes\" data-env=\"prod\" data-uuid=\"acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.562\" data-api=\"prod\"><script src=\"//irishtimes.video-player.arcpublishing.com/prod/powaBoot.js?org=irishtimes\"><\/script></div>","promo_image":{"auth":{"1":"f654db0851d080e50f9878c912e4761aa2486141e2156663398d3eb2b0be3c8f"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-25-2025/t_81cfd88d073e47e7bfc413345d95e5bb_name_lowry.JPG"},"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"f654db0851d080e50f9878c912e4761aa2486141e2156663398d3eb2b0be3c8f"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-25-2025/t_81cfd88d073e47e7bfc413345d95e5bb_name_lowry.JPG"}},"type":"video"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"HO4QFOMQVRDOXAGJCCVMVTTDZ4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":228,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/2564ad2f-7c12-4a54-8a44-273b85db8bf5/versions/1742931990/media/2d9334ea3be8c933525107b96b4650fe_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/25/cost-of-accommodating-asylum-seekers-could-be-cut-by-60-under-new-rules-suggests-government/","content_elements":[{"_id":"Z5DFU7BYV5ECNLTACRUCPAAL6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"RPIGHZTR45CEROVSWG2UA4TPSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"DQY3FMPP5BFFLAF7WRY4C5PCPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government believes it can lower the costs of accommodating a person seeking asylum by 60 per cent under new rules being brought in.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FGXQAKQUO5BCJE6RIRT3YHJMZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, it accepts costs may increase before they fall.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IN7XK3JKXZEZLHKPP5WJ5QHAFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Cabinet agreed on Tuesday to submit an implementation plan to the European Commission as part of the process of signing Ireland up to the new European Migration and Asylum pact, approved last year. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2RIED7VT3RE3HISCUEBVK65ZHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The cabinet was updated on the plans by Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan. While Ministers were told on Tuesday that the cost to the State would increase in the short term due to the impact of introducing a second “parallel system” as part of the pact, the indicative future cost could fall from about €123,000 per applicant to just under €50,000. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"THJ4VLB33FACRKEMGWKNQ7Q3AY","additional_properties":{},"content":"This reduction is contingent on bringing down processing times from the current average of 29 months between first applications and appeals to a nine-month processing timeline. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DNXOLVIJNHVXKVGOWH77GJ34E","additional_properties":{},"content":"This new shorter timeline, Ministers were told, arises from the introduction of new statutory timelines in the EU pact and a commitment required to include national targets for appeals to negative decisions and returns to another jurisdiction. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UAUN3KYQKZDR5LBB2A3GPR244M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government has to implement a new system which will entail repealing current laws governing immigration and replacing them with new legislation by June 2026. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PATLJJ7VF5ETZPM5EGXVGKSJ44","additional_properties":{},"content":"State spent €1.43bn on accommodation for asylum seekers and Ukrainian refugees in first 9 months of 2024","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"GQBMI6VNTVGY7B2BTNFBVDJMX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cabinet was told that arrivals into the system are estimated to be between 15,000 and 18,000 annually, with a lowest case scenario of 10,000 and a need to build a “surge” capacity that could accommodate up to 24,000 people seeking protection. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LOQYCLKH7NEWJFLNUXBGWLVLDQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under the pact, a certain cohort - the size of which is yet to be determined - will not enter the international protection system, but instead be subject to an accelerated process known as the “border procedure”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YPN2AHHINRCJZPYS56W3FVXAKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"People entering into this category will include those coming from jurisdictions with high failure rates in terms of successfully being granted asylum, or those arriving with forged or no papers, or people deemed to be a security risk. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"G26NB4UCT5CN7JNLJJEDAOUNRI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Numbers of arrivals have decreased in the first quarter of the year compared to 2024, Cabinet was told, but there is no guarantee this trend will continue. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZG7W6P6LBRGNNJFEC6E4WH7QGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since 2022, the State has seen a marked increase in arrivals of those seeking international protection as the global geopolitical situation has destabilised, and due to pent-up demand arising from travel restrictions in place during the Covid-19 pandemic. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6OHK74MKQVCSJID6DB7DRV63II","additional_properties":{},"content":"In response, there have been moves to tighten up some aspects of immigration policy and also to speed up processing times – with the opening of accommodation centres for migrants proving to be a political flashpoint. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JOSR7X4TSVAUVCQHHYSIFJUHT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sharp drop in number of tourism beds being used for refugees and asylum seekers","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"MAGOGES2HFFEDGDRSPPIAQIF2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under the pact, the State will introduce a 12-week time limit for a first decision for those in the faster border procedure, including those without documents or with false documents, who are deemed a security risk, or who come from a country where 20 per cent or less of asylum applications are successful across the EU. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCUZMTBOAJHGRJFZ66JXCD7DEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The existing <a href=\"\" rel=\"\" title=\"\">International Protection Office (IPO)</a> and International Protection Appeals Tribunal will be replaced, while the European asylum database, EuroDac, will be extended to track irregular arrivals and asylum applications, the Government said in a statement. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LU3EDY3YXFGYPJGYNMZIZO57HI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The State’s implementation plan also allows for the replacement of current regulations governing the return of migrants to another member state where that country is responsible for processing – as well as measures to relocate applicants from or to provide financial support to member states under significant pressure. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2SMZFPWN4BB3DNFWYV67LSPFZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It also provides for co-location of screening and processing services in accommodation centres in an effort to speed up processing times, as well as the provision of legal counselling and assistance. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DY5IKTW7AZBBVC22CROLBPOF2A","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"NEDEADPKRNAR7MWVKQTACU56OQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"KKRAJPRK5ZAZHGCS7QNYNUN7HM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}]},"description":{"basic":"Indicative future cost could fall from €123,000 per applicant to under €50,000, contingent on cutting processing times from 29 months to nine "},"display_date":"2025-03-25T19:41:15.655Z","headlines":{"basic":"Cost of accommodating asylum seekers could be cut by 60% under new rules, suggests Government ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"VLFC3ZJCN5EFHI73PASGO4YCVY","auth":{"1":"fe825713c08615c7cce0de2b0c696f6fbc823c9b798119a06a7650b2529300d5"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VLFC3ZJCN5EFHI73PASGO4YCVY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/25/cost-of-accommodating-asylum-seekers-could-be-cut-by-60-under-new-rules-suggests-government/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"5KEDG2XP2FHVNPFGIBHWY4FWHU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":163,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/510bfd82-1605-42de-b8a4-1fea0ce00cd4/versions/1742929631/media/5bd776c82982617f65000cfd7699eb0c_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/25/restive-dail-behaviour-brings-coalition-and-opposition-into-disrepute/","content_elements":[{"_id":"ZMDPZFFMRBA7HLTM6KMXBBLCZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The scenes in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\">Dáil </a>on Tuesday were more raucous, more bitter – and likely more repellant to many people watching – than the first instalment of the row over speaking rights in January.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5G5A2US2TFH2PJM3K5FSBDGF3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"That is because <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/government/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/government/\">Government </a>and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-dail-adjourned-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-dail-adjourned-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\">Opposition </a>had adopted positions that put them on an inevitable collision course.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WF6WUCCD25AHHJUZMHVCFUCUDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government had decided it was going to use its majority in the Dáil to push through the changes to standing orders which would provide speaking time to backbench TDs from the two Coalition parties and from the ranks of the Independent TDs who back the Government. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3UNJPI3DWVDCDN5WZUOVKKDWDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘Shame, shame, shame’: Dáil adjourned for the day after row over speaking rights","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"N7G3SLIELJGJHAVE4O7SLWCAOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Famously – or infamously, if you like – this will allow <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry </a>and his allies time to ask questions of Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris during Dáil primetime.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DVIAQG6JRFHXDMJSAVUHS7WP7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Eight minutes is to be shared every Wednesday and Thursday. It’s not a lot but it is important to them. It is also very clear that it has been promised to Lowry as one of the unwritten – or at least unpublished parts of the deal to support the Government. And Micheál Martin is committed to sticking by that deal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T44J67KOBZHE7LVNOFXN4ZYACQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Observing the proceedings, it seemed like the Ceann Comhairle was fully on board with the plan. She did not adjourn the Dáil as the chairwoman would normally do during such disruptions, but instead pushed the votes through when nobody could hear her because of incessant Opposition shouting.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AE6FOV4FCFH6RAHSZJSOF4LAME","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is not, to be honest, the end of Irish democracy; some people need to get a grip. But creating a slot for government-supporting TDs at a time normally reserved for the Opposition representatives is a political stroke of the first order. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VZNADLG2PNHEJPGA25WBWCFHGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"And for many people, the sight of Lowry sticking up his two fingers at People Before Profit-Solidarity TD Paul Murphy will be the only summary of the issue that they need. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750","additional_properties":{},"subtype":"irish-times-video","type":"video"},{"_id":"LVZBPAHDXNHE5B6WBZKXAQNWEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Never mind that Murphy was, in violation of loads of Dáil rules, filming while chanting “Shame!” and trying to get a rise out of Lowry – a picture tells a thousand words.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LQXOYNEDJCMPJZ3I24F62J4J4","additional_properties":{},"content":"But if the Government was prepared to ram the proposal through, the Opposition was determined to shout down the proceedings of parliament from the word go. Sinn Féin TDs were clearly under instruction to prevent the Dáil from doing its business because they didn’t like it. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4AA2SQCVHJARDNGZK6AHUCN3WA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Whatever you think of the Coalition’s plans, democracy requires people to be willing to lose votes and then abide by them. Their response will look wholly disproportionate to many people. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YSIWZUPNY5DPRDG3WTJV65HTQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ultimately, for parliament to work, the Government and Opposition have to agree on a common set of rules set by votes, but which respect everyone’s perspective. We look a long way away from that now.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S6XSHND4LZAWHBGHGDXB6HOXLA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Unruly scenes sparked by divisive speaking rights pledge to Lowry group as one of the unwritten – or at least unpublished – parts of pact with Government "},"display_date":"2025-03-25T19:02:08.146Z","headlines":{"basic":"Unruly Dáil scenes inevitable with Coalition and Opposition on collision course","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5BM4FZKFMLYUAM5AT7HV363BXM","auth":{"1":"908cc937519de7c6cb3d0891a8f814eaa6c9ab4c3be9d1b7231e65f3b5ea515a"},"focal_point":{"x":1206,"y":309},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5BM4FZKFMLYUAM5AT7HV363BXM.jpg"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/25/restive-dail-behaviour-brings-coalition-and-opposition-into-disrepute/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}}],"count":10000,"_id":"d65b3354a2736e4bb581e1432efa628db08aa7fae03b012a03d62f582409987a"},"expires":1743500999412,"lastModified":1743500699067},"{\"feedOffset\":0,\"feedSize\":5,\"includeSections\":\"/podcasts/inside-politics\"}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"A77REA5YBZBWDNG4KCJKN6DWIQ","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/can-europe-fight-back-against-trumps-tariffs/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DBAXB2YNCZGO5FOBXXSDA2QRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tomorrow US president Donald Trump is expected to announce tariffs on a wide range of imports from several countries, probably including the European Union. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LVMUDIRSRD2RPIKEX6P3XSLOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"To find out what Trump might do and what steps the EU is considering in response, Hugh Linehan is joined by economics columnist Cliff Taylor and Europe correspondent Jack Power. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T07:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Can Europe fight back against Trump’s tariffs? ","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM","auth":{"1":"24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":2536.296,"episodeTitle":"EU leaders have become resigned to a trade war with Trump. But how far will it go? ","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/episodes/67eaaed87828ca699c3f5bfa.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/can-europe-fight-back-against-trumps-tariffs/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"P3PAB3YMGRBILA5RCVT3IWVEDA","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/are-labour-getting-too-close-to-sinn-fein-for-their-own-good/","content_elements":[{"_id":"INEOLHBHHNGVHE2UUROFM245M4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pat Leahy and Sarah Burns join Hugh Linehan to look back on the week in politics:","type":"text"},{"_id":"4DB7N3KDTFAEFM5V4LBB32DDOQ","type":"list"},{"_id":"4OGT3EKCE5HWDELQJXAVGPQ7IU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"VNDVYOXL5NDZDM2BPR6JA4SGEA","type":"list"},{"_id":"VO653EWOYJGALPUICUX6GILSEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZOQECXY7ZHZXLJIGY5MPP74LA","type":"list"},{"_id":"L7T7ZEYSNFGVJA4QF6OEONSMXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Plus, the panel picks their favourite Irish Times pieces of the week:","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCMZ4ONJWJFPHIWYIFX5I5PFLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Top <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/us/2025/03/25/pete-hegseth-texted-me-the-war-plan-how-top-us-officials-shared-military-strike-details-in-group-chat-with-journalist/\" rel=\"\">US officials sharing military strike details</a> in group chat with a journalist, the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/27/web-summit-case-paddy-cosgrave-was-steve-jobs-daire-hickey-and-david-kelly-were-steve-wozniak/\" rel=\"\">Web Summit case</a> and the friendships ruined, and five years on – where did the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/27/no-you-were-not-misled-about-the-origins-of-covid/\" rel=\"\">Covid virus originate</a>?","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T15:25:35.48Z","headlines":{"basic":"Are Labour getting too close to Sinn Féin for their own good?","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ","auth":{"1":"38cf5148d5a7d25ad482784454d89542e65347062ba7a88eeb3f5b1814cb7a0a"},"focal_point":{"x":1776,"y":1112},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ.jpg"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":2464.492,"episodeTitle":"Listen to our weekly digest of all things political","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/episodes/67e6abc5ea383e95069e7692.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/are-labour-getting-too-close-to-sinn-fein-for-their-own-good/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"5Z322WGOZBDQRCL5O4OHUXRJSY","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/opposition-loses-confidence-in-verona-murphy-as-the-lowry-deal-haunts-government/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DBAXB2YNCZGO5FOBXXSDA2QRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\">Verona Murphy</a> no longer enjoys the confidence of the Opposition following another day of uproar over speaking rights in Dáil Éireann. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EXKXXVJF2VDQFNQHYAGARBCJFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the height of the commotion <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a>, the Tipperary TD made <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/video/video/2025/03/26/michael-lowry-criticised-for-hand-gestures-during-intense-day-in-dail/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/video/video/2025/03/26/michael-lowry-criticised-for-hand-gestures-during-intense-day-in-dail/\">a rude gesture</a> that was captured on camera, providing the Opposition with a perfect image to sum up what they say is wrong with the Government’s approach to the dispute. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"O2726PP7BVBO3NB2QQS3BHRDHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On today’s podcast Jack Horgan-Jones and Cormac McQuinn join Hugh Linehan to explain what has been happening in Leinster House over the past two days and why the involvement of Lowry in the deal that created the Government is proving a much bigger problem than Michéal Martin anticipated. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T16:40:49.459Z","headlines":{"basic":"Opposition loses confidence in Verona Murphy as the Lowry deal haunts Government","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM","auth":{"1":"1df3d9a06aa9c4794c7dd5812d67e229df9afa7c58bb88f7a448f64127e54c9d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM.JPG"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":1615.725714,"episodeTitle":"The row over speaking rights dominated Tuesday and Wednesday's Dáil proceedings","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/episodes/67e4265bd6912226b5b35063.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/opposition-loses-confidence-in-verona-murphy-as-the-lowry-deal-haunts-government/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"TIPTJY253VGTPO2ERTTXYETVUU","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/the-assads-ruled-brutally-for-half-a-century-then-suddenly-they-were-gone/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DBAXB2YNCZGO5FOBXXSDA2QRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"On today’s episode of the Inside Politics podcast Hugh Linehan talks to Sally Hayden about her experiences reporting on the aftermath of the fall of the Assad regime in Syria and the collapse of Hizbullah in Lebanon. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VWIQNVVPWZGJFGLHVVYO4WVQHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sally has written about <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2025/03/02/weve-become-used-to-being-betrayed-us-aid-cuts-affect-camps-for-people-accused-of-isis-affiliation/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2025/03/02/weve-become-used-to-being-betrayed-us-aid-cuts-affect-camps-for-people-accused-of-isis-affiliation/\">a Syrian prison for suspected Isis fighters</a>, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2025/02/23/tens-of-thousands-attend-funeral-of-hizbullah-leader-hassan-nasrallah-as-israeli-jets-fly-overhead/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2025/02/23/tens-of-thousands-attend-funeral-of-hizbullah-leader-hassan-nasrallah-as-israeli-jets-fly-overhead/\">the funeral of a Hizbullah leader</a> and <a href=\"https://about:blank\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://about:blank\">the presence of Irish peacekeepers</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/01/privileged-and-blessed-irish-citizens-post-positive-coverage-of-hizbullah-on-paid-for-trip-to-lebanon/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/01/privileged-and-blessed-irish-citizens-post-positive-coverage-of-hizbullah-on-paid-for-trip-to-lebanon/\">Irish guests of Hizbullah</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"O2TCZ3YXVRAG7JMXMUC3AQUTGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"From Sally’s reports, a picture of a region in a tumultuous and violent period emerges. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T15:46:57.621Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘The Assads ruled brutally for half a century. Then suddenly they were gone’ ","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RTSNMFJVQFG67FYLKLS23GMPGE","auth":{"1":"81b310c498608351cd3bde7586ff50214ca9b7a789362b5254b325096120122b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RTSNMFJVQFG67FYLKLS23GMPGE.jpg"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"episodeTitle":"Sally Hayden on reporting from an Isis prison camp and a Hizbullah leader's funeral ","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/the-assads-ruled-brutally-for-half-a-century-then-suddenly-they-were-gone/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"PHSBLXVVTVAKJA6ENRFU4AAW24","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/europe-gathers-to-grapple-with-a-new-economic-and-security-paradigm/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DBAXB2YNCZGO5FOBXXSDA2QRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jack Horgan-Jones and Pat Leahy join Hugh Linehan to look back on the week in politics:","type":"text"},{"_id":"4ALIRIAVBZD4ZAADAMBSCWXQ3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jack reports from Brussels where <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/eu-summit-brussels-defence-ireland-politics-newsletter/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/eu-summit-brussels-defence-ireland-politics-newsletter/\">EU leaders have been meeting to discuss issues including defence and rearmament</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3IK6YVMUJVGXZD3JXRCM7LBCFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Paschal Donohoe used the sidelines of the summit to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/eu-us-trade-war-would-be-bad-for-ireland-says-donohoe-at-brussels-meeting/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/eu-us-trade-war-would-be-bad-for-ireland-says-donohoe-at-brussels-meeting/\">deliver a stark warning</a> on the impact of a US-EU trade war on the economy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZAJIBC2WRBHSTJRRQY26LFYZNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/18/why-did-donald-trump-bring-conor-mcgregor-to-the-white-house/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/18/why-did-donald-trump-bring-conor-mcgregor-to-the-white-house/\">Conor McGregor’s appearance at the White House</a> on St Patrick’s Day has heightened anticipation of a presidential run of his own. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DJDUL5FWU5EX7EF4AWW7O2MNHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"This week also saw <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/apartment-housing-delivery-has-collapsed-and-requires-radical-response-says-minister/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/apartment-housing-delivery-has-collapsed-and-requires-radical-response-says-minister/\">more bad news</a> on the issue the Government can’t get away from. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QBJIKSH4CRBIVFM6IKWHDTHGEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Plus the panelists pick their favourite Irish Times articles of the week, including <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/19/tech-bros-at-war-as-web-summit-founders-arrive-at-high-court/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/19/tech-bros-at-war-as-web-summit-founders-arrive-at-high-court/\">Miriam Lord on Web Summit</a>, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/18/gerry-thornley-this-irish-team-is-simply-not-what-it-was/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/18/gerry-thornley-this-irish-team-is-simply-not-what-it-was/\">Gerry Thornley on Ireland’s Six Nations</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/20/newton-emerson-the-dup-wants-ulster-protestants-to-be-recognised-for-throwing-off-british-rule/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/20/newton-emerson-the-dup-wants-ulster-protestants-to-be-recognised-for-throwing-off-british-rule/\">Newton Emerson on Unionism discovering its Irish identity</a>. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-03-21T13:49:32.882Z","headlines":{"basic":"Europe gathers to grapple with a new economic and security paradigm","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"QH3OR32ONRBAQKWPGP3XYAY4OI","auth":{"1":"31588320d0c54e8828348c080d14289ac704645e53bc44dd470c278cde115d00"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/QH3OR32ONRBAQKWPGP3XYAY4OI.jpg"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":2499.916,"episodeTitle":"Plus: does McGregor matter to Irish politics? ","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/episodes/67dd600bec9837e25e74fd5a.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/europe-gathers-to-grapple-with-a-new-economic-and-security-paradigm/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}}],"count":313,"_id":"7701c3125730e421892c8fcd5a6cc17a74738f9175627c5d8fda0270a2ac7886"},"expires":1743501082241,"lastModified":1743500782077},"{\"excludeSections\":\"\",\"feedOffset\":0,\"feedSize\":5,\"includeSections\":\"/podcasts/inside-politics\"}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"A77REA5YBZBWDNG4KCJKN6DWIQ","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/can-europe-fight-back-against-trumps-tariffs/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DBAXB2YNCZGO5FOBXXSDA2QRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tomorrow US president Donald Trump is expected to announce tariffs on a wide range of imports from several countries, probably including the European Union. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LVMUDIRSRD2RPIKEX6P3XSLOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"To find out what Trump might do and what steps the EU is considering in response, Hugh Linehan is joined by economics columnist Cliff Taylor and Europe correspondent Jack Power. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T07:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Can Europe fight back against Trump’s tariffs? ","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM","auth":{"1":"24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":2536.296,"episodeTitle":"EU leaders have become resigned to a trade war with Trump. But how far will it go? ","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/episodes/67eaaed87828ca699c3f5bfa.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/can-europe-fight-back-against-trumps-tariffs/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"P3PAB3YMGRBILA5RCVT3IWVEDA","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/are-labour-getting-too-close-to-sinn-fein-for-their-own-good/","content_elements":[{"_id":"INEOLHBHHNGVHE2UUROFM245M4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pat Leahy and Sarah Burns join Hugh Linehan to look back on the week in politics:","type":"text"},{"_id":"4DB7N3KDTFAEFM5V4LBB32DDOQ","type":"list"},{"_id":"4OGT3EKCE5HWDELQJXAVGPQ7IU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"VNDVYOXL5NDZDM2BPR6JA4SGEA","type":"list"},{"_id":"VO653EWOYJGALPUICUX6GILSEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZOQECXY7ZHZXLJIGY5MPP74LA","type":"list"},{"_id":"L7T7ZEYSNFGVJA4QF6OEONSMXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Plus, the panel picks their favourite Irish Times pieces of the week:","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCMZ4ONJWJFPHIWYIFX5I5PFLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Top <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/us/2025/03/25/pete-hegseth-texted-me-the-war-plan-how-top-us-officials-shared-military-strike-details-in-group-chat-with-journalist/\" rel=\"\">US officials sharing military strike details</a> in group chat with a journalist, the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/27/web-summit-case-paddy-cosgrave-was-steve-jobs-daire-hickey-and-david-kelly-were-steve-wozniak/\" rel=\"\">Web Summit case</a> and the friendships ruined, and five years on – where did the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/27/no-you-were-not-misled-about-the-origins-of-covid/\" rel=\"\">Covid virus originate</a>?","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T15:25:35.48Z","headlines":{"basic":"Are Labour getting too close to Sinn Féin for their own good?","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ","auth":{"1":"38cf5148d5a7d25ad482784454d89542e65347062ba7a88eeb3f5b1814cb7a0a"},"focal_point":{"x":1776,"y":1112},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ.jpg"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":2464.492,"episodeTitle":"Listen to our weekly digest of all things political","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/episodes/67e6abc5ea383e95069e7692.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/are-labour-getting-too-close-to-sinn-fein-for-their-own-good/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"5Z322WGOZBDQRCL5O4OHUXRJSY","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/opposition-loses-confidence-in-verona-murphy-as-the-lowry-deal-haunts-government/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DBAXB2YNCZGO5FOBXXSDA2QRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\">Verona Murphy</a> no longer enjoys the confidence of the Opposition following another day of uproar over speaking rights in Dáil Éireann. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EXKXXVJF2VDQFNQHYAGARBCJFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the height of the commotion <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a>, the Tipperary TD made <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/video/video/2025/03/26/michael-lowry-criticised-for-hand-gestures-during-intense-day-in-dail/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/video/video/2025/03/26/michael-lowry-criticised-for-hand-gestures-during-intense-day-in-dail/\">a rude gesture</a> that was captured on camera, providing the Opposition with a perfect image to sum up what they say is wrong with the Government’s approach to the dispute. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"O2726PP7BVBO3NB2QQS3BHRDHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On today’s podcast Jack Horgan-Jones and Cormac McQuinn join Hugh Linehan to explain what has been happening in Leinster House over the past two days and why the involvement of Lowry in the deal that created the Government is proving a much bigger problem than Michéal Martin anticipated. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T16:40:49.459Z","headlines":{"basic":"Opposition loses confidence in Verona Murphy as the Lowry deal haunts Government","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM","auth":{"1":"1df3d9a06aa9c4794c7dd5812d67e229df9afa7c58bb88f7a448f64127e54c9d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM.JPG"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":1615.725714,"episodeTitle":"The row over speaking rights dominated Tuesday and Wednesday's Dáil proceedings","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/episodes/67e4265bd6912226b5b35063.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/opposition-loses-confidence-in-verona-murphy-as-the-lowry-deal-haunts-government/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"TIPTJY253VGTPO2ERTTXYETVUU","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/the-assads-ruled-brutally-for-half-a-century-then-suddenly-they-were-gone/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DBAXB2YNCZGO5FOBXXSDA2QRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"On today’s episode of the Inside Politics podcast Hugh Linehan talks to Sally Hayden about her experiences reporting on the aftermath of the fall of the Assad regime in Syria and the collapse of Hizbullah in Lebanon. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VWIQNVVPWZGJFGLHVVYO4WVQHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sally has written about <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2025/03/02/weve-become-used-to-being-betrayed-us-aid-cuts-affect-camps-for-people-accused-of-isis-affiliation/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2025/03/02/weve-become-used-to-being-betrayed-us-aid-cuts-affect-camps-for-people-accused-of-isis-affiliation/\">a Syrian prison for suspected Isis fighters</a>, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2025/02/23/tens-of-thousands-attend-funeral-of-hizbullah-leader-hassan-nasrallah-as-israeli-jets-fly-overhead/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2025/02/23/tens-of-thousands-attend-funeral-of-hizbullah-leader-hassan-nasrallah-as-israeli-jets-fly-overhead/\">the funeral of a Hizbullah leader</a> and <a href=\"https://about:blank\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://about:blank\">the presence of Irish peacekeepers</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/01/privileged-and-blessed-irish-citizens-post-positive-coverage-of-hizbullah-on-paid-for-trip-to-lebanon/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/01/privileged-and-blessed-irish-citizens-post-positive-coverage-of-hizbullah-on-paid-for-trip-to-lebanon/\">Irish guests of Hizbullah</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"O2TCZ3YXVRAG7JMXMUC3AQUTGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"From Sally’s reports, a picture of a region in a tumultuous and violent period emerges. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T15:46:57.621Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘The Assads ruled brutally for half a century. Then suddenly they were gone’ ","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RTSNMFJVQFG67FYLKLS23GMPGE","auth":{"1":"81b310c498608351cd3bde7586ff50214ca9b7a789362b5254b325096120122b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RTSNMFJVQFG67FYLKLS23GMPGE.jpg"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"episodeTitle":"Sally Hayden on reporting from an Isis prison camp and a Hizbullah leader's funeral ","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/the-assads-ruled-brutally-for-half-a-century-then-suddenly-they-were-gone/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"PHSBLXVVTVAKJA6ENRFU4AAW24","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/europe-gathers-to-grapple-with-a-new-economic-and-security-paradigm/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DBAXB2YNCZGO5FOBXXSDA2QRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jack Horgan-Jones and Pat Leahy join Hugh Linehan to look back on the week in politics:","type":"text"},{"_id":"4ALIRIAVBZD4ZAADAMBSCWXQ3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jack reports from Brussels where <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/eu-summit-brussels-defence-ireland-politics-newsletter/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/eu-summit-brussels-defence-ireland-politics-newsletter/\">EU leaders have been meeting to discuss issues including defence and rearmament</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3IK6YVMUJVGXZD3JXRCM7LBCFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Paschal Donohoe used the sidelines of the summit to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/eu-us-trade-war-would-be-bad-for-ireland-says-donohoe-at-brussels-meeting/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/eu-us-trade-war-would-be-bad-for-ireland-says-donohoe-at-brussels-meeting/\">deliver a stark warning</a> on the impact of a US-EU trade war on the economy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZAJIBC2WRBHSTJRRQY26LFYZNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/18/why-did-donald-trump-bring-conor-mcgregor-to-the-white-house/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/18/why-did-donald-trump-bring-conor-mcgregor-to-the-white-house/\">Conor McGregor’s appearance at the White House</a> on St Patrick’s Day has heightened anticipation of a presidential run of his own. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DJDUL5FWU5EX7EF4AWW7O2MNHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"This week also saw <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/apartment-housing-delivery-has-collapsed-and-requires-radical-response-says-minister/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/20/apartment-housing-delivery-has-collapsed-and-requires-radical-response-says-minister/\">more bad news</a> on the issue the Government can’t get away from. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QBJIKSH4CRBIVFM6IKWHDTHGEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Plus the panelists pick their favourite Irish Times articles of the week, including <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/19/tech-bros-at-war-as-web-summit-founders-arrive-at-high-court/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/19/tech-bros-at-war-as-web-summit-founders-arrive-at-high-court/\">Miriam Lord on Web Summit</a>, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/18/gerry-thornley-this-irish-team-is-simply-not-what-it-was/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/18/gerry-thornley-this-irish-team-is-simply-not-what-it-was/\">Gerry Thornley on Ireland’s Six Nations</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/20/newton-emerson-the-dup-wants-ulster-protestants-to-be-recognised-for-throwing-off-british-rule/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/20/newton-emerson-the-dup-wants-ulster-protestants-to-be-recognised-for-throwing-off-british-rule/\">Newton Emerson on Unionism discovering its Irish identity</a>. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-03-21T13:49:32.882Z","headlines":{"basic":"Europe gathers to grapple with a new economic and security paradigm","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"QH3OR32ONRBAQKWPGP3XYAY4OI","auth":{"1":"31588320d0c54e8828348c080d14289ac704645e53bc44dd470c278cde115d00"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/QH3OR32ONRBAQKWPGP3XYAY4OI.jpg"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":2499.916,"episodeTitle":"Plus: does McGregor matter to Irish politics? ","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/1724428043858-64129b41-4dcc-4687-9699-c230593c36a2.jpeg","showTitle":"Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/6155db9059a3fa00137f30a9/episodes/67dd600bec9837e25e74fd5a.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},{"name":"Podcasts"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/europe-gathers-to-grapple-with-a-new-economic-and-security-paradigm/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CBU6KWVAFFFKBFRT2I653TLHIE.png"}}},"name":"Inside Politics Podcast"}}}}],"count":313,"_id":"7701c3125730e421892c8fcd5a6cc17a74738f9175627c5d8fda0270a2ac7886"},"expires":1743501082329,"lastModified":1743500782080},"{\"feature\":\"results-list\",\"feedOffset\":0,\"feedSize\":40,\"includeSections\":\"/politics\"}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"SX2RDN4FCRERPMGKR6FX276GCQ","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"harry-mcgee","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee","type":"author","url":"/author/harry-mcgee/"}]},"description":{"basic":"The Dublin Bay North TD will remain a member of the Lowry technical group and will continue to support the Government"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T09:37:14.276Z","headlines":{"basic":"Barry Heneghan moves Dáil seat away from Michael Lowry to emphasise his ‘independent’ status"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY","auth":{"1":"86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/barry-heneghan-moves-dail-seat-away-from-michael-lowry-to-emphasise-his-independent-status/"}}},{"_id":"TG5DKXG5YFCHVK6P5NXNGVXFFU","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"Vivienne-Clarke","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Vivienne Clarke"}},"name":"Vivienne Clarke","type":"author","url":"/author/vivienne-clarke/"}]},"description":{"basic":"US should reduce its corporation tax to 15 per cent to bring it closer to Ireland’s, contends Stephen Moore"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T09:29:45.543Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland ‘the corporate tax model’ of what US should do, says former Trump economic adviser"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ","auth":{"1":"b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ireland-the-corporate-tax-model-of-what-us-should-do-says-former-trump-economic-adviser/"}}},{"_id":"KGPVJEJNHZDPRBYRBYT3VZHZEQ","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"harry-mcgee","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee","type":"author","url":"/author/harry-mcgee/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Trade-war could see Irish pharmaceuticals fall by 50 per cent, Cabinet to be told"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T07:04:50.434Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ministers brace for chill winds of Trump tariffs"},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Inside Politics Newsletter"}},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4","auth":{"1":"c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ministers-brace-for-chill-winds-of-trump-tariffs/"}}},{"_id":"A77REA5YBZBWDNG4KCJKN6DWIQ","credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T07:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Can Europe fight back against Trump’s tariffs? "},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM","auth":{"1":"24ebfe5cb416aeafe7a8ea8118bbda20b44bdcb943c6b4fcf6e02b73671d8c43"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6VOTM7SUTYVCKDY25OILWVCBYM.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},"website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/can-europe-fight-back-against-trumps-tariffs/"}}},{"_id":"FP2NSTKARVC4XONVK5QFRVQ3KA","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"cormac-mcquinn","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn","type":"author","url":"/author/cormac-mcquinn/"},{"_id":"pat-leahy","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy","type":"author","url":"/author/pat-leahy/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Cabinet to be briefed on potential impact of US tariffs on the EU"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Irish pharma exports to US projected to halve over five years in event of trade war"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU","auth":{"1":"6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4"},"focal_point":{"x":2643,"y":1849},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/"}}},{"_id":"EDOGOZDTINFCDDJ75CXH6SCRLE","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"cormac-mcquinn","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn","type":"author","url":"/author/cormac-mcquinn/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Paschal Donohoe expected to brief colleagues on proposed changes to LPT charging mechanism to limit the impact of rising property values on householders "},"display_date":"2025-04-01T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Majority of Irish homeowners to see property tax increases this year "},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM","auth":{"1":"a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e"},"focal_point":{"x":1893,"y":1263},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/majority-of-homeowners-to-see-property-tax-increases-of-between-5-and-25/"}}},{"_id":"74D23GOVMZDQBFRZIX3LWRDLPE","credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Graham Spencer","type":"author"}]},"description":{"basic":"Using statistics to defend the union will have little persuasive power"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T20:51:09.414Z","headlines":{"basic":"North’s unionists can learn from Britain’s record on diversity"},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Common Ground Voices"}},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU","auth":{"1":"6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/norths-unionists-can-learn-from-britains-record-on-diversity/"}}},{"_id":"SGK6DSX6XBE6XANEYBYGDPDIPQ","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"harry-mcgee","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee","type":"author","url":"/author/harry-mcgee/"}]},"description":{"basic":"The Cabinet is expected to approve the text of the confidence motion on Tuesday morning"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T17:47:18.906Z","headlines":{"basic":"Q&A: Is the Ceann Comhairle confidence motion unprecedented?"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM","auth":{"1":"c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/"}}},{"_id":"GGMP4OWTZFGTFI5X4645RMBETA","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"mark-hennessy","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hennessy"}},"name":"Mark Hennessy","type":"author","url":"/author/mark-hennessy/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Derry boy Cormac Quigley’s note arrived during some of the darkest days of the Troubles"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T14:54:23.301Z","headlines":{"basic":"Boy’s letter about not being able to play outside after Bloody Sunday touched taoiseach, new State records show"},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Common Ground","url":"/common-ground/"}},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ","auth":{"1":"45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0"},"focal_point":{"x":462,"y":357},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/"}}},{"_id":"RVRLQP4GUZEXBJDC34QQT62AJY","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"jack-horgan-jones","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones","type":"author","url":"/author/jack-horgan-jones/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Potential for EU-US trade war has added to need for action on passenger cap"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Legislation being examined as way to deal with Dublin Airport cap ‘once and for all’"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI","auth":{"1":"a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0"},"focal_point":{"x":2157,"y":1523},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/legislation-being-examined-as-way-to-deal-with-dublin-airport-cap-once-and-for-all/"}}},{"_id":"BAL5DASJKZBI5OILQQX53DGGFE","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"jack-horgan-jones","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones","type":"author","url":"/author/jack-horgan-jones/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Minister for Justice to seek Cabinet approval for Bill known as ‘Valerie’s Law’ this week"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"People convicted of killing their spouse face losing guardianship rights"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI","auth":{"1":"3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff"},"focal_point":{"x":1459,"y":704},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/those-convicted-of-killing-their-spouse-face-losing-guardianship-rights-under-draft-laws/"}}},{"_id":"OCGL6UPBD5GNPHRPA43M4JARBI","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"jack-horgan-jones","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones","type":"author","url":"/author/jack-horgan-jones/"}]},"description":{"basic":"US president Donald Trump expected to announce tariffs on a swathe of EU exports in April"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"US tariffs: Ireland to bolster competitiveness ahead of looming trade war"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6VCACUF3RZE6NN5N6UU63EUW5Y","auth":{"1":"ae00a15721573199b2d7b666acab3e50d8bd31c3df368f95b8d29c1d9dc5a92e"},"focal_point":{"x":1190,"y":1015},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6VCACUF3RZE6NN5N6UU63EUW5Y.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/us-tariffs-ireland-to-bolster-competitiveness-ahead-of-looming-trade-war/"}}},{"_id":"HI3XOCB2XNAOXAJ45OEIU6NGNM","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"mark-hennessy","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hennessy"}},"name":"Mark Hennessy","type":"author","url":"/author/mark-hennessy/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Washington put pressure on government in early 1970s to stop forcing passenger planes from US to land at Shannon"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T14:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"US airlines’ demand to be allowed to land at Dublin threatened Aer Lingus and west of Ireland, Lynch told Nixon"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ","auth":{"1":"45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/us-demands-for-its-airlines-to-land-at-dublin-threatened-aer-lingus-and-west-of-ireland-lynch-told-nixon/"}}},{"_id":"NDNS37SCYBDLJOHESDOEGVMVNU","credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"DUP leader Gavin Robinson says installation of signage is ‘clearly a controversial matter’"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T10:45:44.902Z","headlines":{"basic":"DUP to put ‘marker down’ at Executive against Irish language signs at Belfast’s Grand Central Station"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7SHJX7JM3QHAN4WMTMGLRMOYZM","auth":{"1":"3818dcc20da4a2d0bb6e59de96ae4ac385071297f19adc3eec0993bf809465e7"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7SHJX7JM3QHAN4WMTMGLRMOYZM.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/dup-to-put-marker-down-at-executive-against-irish-language-signs-at-belfasts-grand-central-station/"}}},{"_id":"VTY57DJZDJDIJN6372FVSZGUAY","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"cormac-mcquinn","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn","type":"author","url":"/author/cormac-mcquinn/"}]},"description":{"basic":"With Washington expected to unveil tariffs on the EU and Trump setting his sights on Irish pharma, April 2nd is being viewed with dread in boardrooms and Government Buildings"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Explainer: How would Ireland be affected in a US-EU trade war"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY","auth":{"1":"97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/wednesday-could-see-the-start-of-a-us-eu-trade-war-how-would-ireland-be-affected/"}}},{"_id":"MZ532ISISFFZTNU3QMEYM4DH3M","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"sarah-burns","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Sarah Burns"}},"name":"Sarah Burns","type":"author","url":"/author/sarah-burns/"}]},"description":{"basic":"The singer said some Opposition parties have approached her "},"display_date":"2025-03-29T11:43:46.898Z","headlines":{"basic":"Frances Black ‘open to the conversation’ about becoming a presidential candidate"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"T2FFM6PWQUNX5RRCL6YRZPN7KM","auth":{"1":"a66705f0d8fe8f0f1f27ccf3aa0f9ec91b0701d5c18848a1cd4d084f5a131a9a"},"focal_point":{"x":2557,"y":1497},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/T2FFM6PWQUNX5RRCL6YRZPN7KM.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/ireland","name":"Ireland"},"website_url":"/ireland/2025/03/29/frances-black-open-to-the-conversation-about-becoming-a-presidential-candidate/"}}},{"_id":"J4CYWF22ZNCUBKYZ7PL3P63IGQ","credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Dara Bradley","type":"author"}]},"description":{"basic":"Former Fine Gael leader also confirms he begins advisory role with US-based PR firm Penta on April 10th, a year and two days after he stepped down as taoiseach"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:05:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Leo Varadkar confirms he will feature in RTÉ travel show and rules out presidential bid"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JDKB3KPPABDBQEL7CQ2RKVU2FE","auth":{"1":"953e4dca5c4e813c3177f0091fe42bf7dcd7349e824bbab5ba0f3d4d06f25f37"},"focal_point":{"x":1845,"y":1268},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JDKB3KPPABDBQEL7CQ2RKVU2FE.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/leo-varadkar-confirms-he-will-feature-in-rte-travel-show-and-rules-out-presidential-bid/"}}},{"_id":"2HZY4X4XMJHA5CNJAPNK2NXKJU","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"pat-leahy","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy","type":"author","url":"/author/pat-leahy/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Row is yet more evidence of politicians’ preoccupation with trivia as storm clouds gather abroad and housing crisis worsens at home"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:43Z","headlines":{"basic":"Speaking rights for Michael Lowry would not be on my list of issues critical to our democracy"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"4SUUFM7JAJAT7GROVDWZEYRBIQ","auth":{"1":"6b9de53e67630ea4f7579da45e4dff4d4ca3e1b29265948a424b108077ebda7b"},"focal_point":{"x":752,"y":505},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/4SUUFM7JAJAT7GROVDWZEYRBIQ.jpg"},"lead_art":{"type":"image"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/opinion","name":"Opinion"},"website_url":"/opinion/2025/03/29/speaking-rights-for-michael-lowry-would-not-be-on-my-list-of-issues-critical-to-our-democracy/"}}},{"_id":"XBW7NJHAQJEGVC2353GHVDLE7A","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"miriam-lord","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Miriam Lord"}},"name":"Miriam Lord","type":"author","url":"/author/miriam-lord/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Government deputies develop a nose for the ‘m’ word in the nick of time as Ceann Comhairle is barracked by Opposition"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Miriam Lord: With Verona under fire, TDs suddenly realise they are gravely concerned about misogyny after all"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BQRTHGOKGZEMRBGGLSEX4OSIV4","auth":{"1":"3727d6abbbaf6af6b71b6ecee24f7054c390eab4219465d30232704b0a018b75"},"focal_point":{"x":743,"y":489},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BQRTHGOKGZEMRBGGLSEX4OSIV4.jpg"},"lead_art":{"type":"image"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/miriam-lord-with-verona-under-fire-tds-suddenly-realise-they-are-gravely-concerned-about-misogyny-after-all/"}}},{"_id":"LKS4CB2425G6PIGAIPHBH577E4","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"conor-gallagher","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher","type":"author","url":"/author/conor-gallagher/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Mixed martial arts fighter wants run in this year’s election to succeed Michael D Higgins"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘I would not even consider voting for that horrid man’: Councillors respond to Conor McGregor’s bid for presidential nomination"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JJHGRDXRQRGUTHB7HVUF3KVWS4","auth":{"1":"e8c4236e3a81953b94d2826db7459b0006c5aae89639fa30bad5cf4548c68952"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JJHGRDXRQRGUTHB7HVUF3KVWS4.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/in-their-own-words-councillors-respond-to-conor-mcgregors-bid-for-presidential-nomination/"}}},{"_id":"DQLSGOEE6FBOXD64ZSNMYLBIYE","credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Nicholas Canny","type":"author"}]},"description":{"basic":"Donald Trump and his closest advisers have taken steps to circumvent the constraints upon the executive authority of president in pursuit of vaguely defined goals. Can they be stopped?"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"No limits? Why the United States could be on the verge of a constitutional crisis"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SGX7SSBGBCCFEETKAYTXHQUVF4","auth":{"1":"24bfc523a47f27573741e43ccd8fa5d7dd4c329000f398902ad6ed680792bbff"},"focal_point":{"x":2240,"y":2326},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SGX7SSBGBCCFEETKAYTXHQUVF4.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/opinion","name":"Opinion"},"website_url":"/opinion/2025/03/29/no-limits-why-the-united-states-could-be-on-the-verge-of-a-constitutional-crisis/"}}},{"_id":"ZZHECNKPR5F3XIENMHJYLLHTBI","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"conor-gallagher","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher","type":"author","url":"/author/conor-gallagher/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Councillors are bracing for a chaotic bid to seek presidential nomination"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Conor McGregor presidential bid: All but one of 188 councillors would not vote for MMA fighter, survey shows"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"3LVERTNWVNHKNMMLUA7JXUUU24","auth":{"1":"9903d0ead6da7f46196731ed27ac0b9cf80b7f98ba2cef3ff6b59a576ece38e7"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/3LVERTNWVNHKNMMLUA7JXUUU24.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/councillors-brace-for-chaotic-conor-mcgregor-bid-to-seek-a-presidential-nomination-from-local-authorities/"}}},{"_id":"KDSEIWIWHBGNNGWF3OYADCPCXI","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"cormac-mcquinn","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn","type":"author","url":"/author/cormac-mcquinn/"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Adam Leahy","type":"author"}]},"description":{"basic":"Darragh O’Brien says he hopes next week’s confidence vote in Ceann Comhairle will mark end of speaking rights row"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T19:12:24.889Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach insists Government and Dáil are ‘working’ despite ‘unacceptable’ scenes"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"22KGDX4QZBATRAXDRJ4E2TRQQI","auth":{"1":"d5182dceb950545cd27c01c52c0c372542aee829cb846bc792474ebe42be1f1c"},"focal_point":{"x":1696,"y":1142},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/22KGDX4QZBATRAXDRJ4E2TRQQI.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/taoiseach-insists-government-and-dail-are-working-despite-unacceptable-scenes/"}}},{"_id":"2MBUBSUOFRHZFLSV4TR3WAV3IY","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"ronan-mcgreevy","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ronan McGreevy"}},"name":"Ronan McGreevy","type":"author","url":"/author/ronan-mcgreevy/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Simon Harris commits Ireland to highest level of ambition for the Defence Forces"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T19:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Minister for Defence admits Ireland is ‘lagging behind’ in terms of military spending"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SZTUNGSN5LHYOWDIZAY33MXAY4","auth":{"1":"13ccb3937d90f7ce06597efa9768fe5942c5f17f6a3ac1844f8b5a531707a33c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SZTUNGSN5LHYOWDIZAY33MXAY4.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/minister-for-defence-admits-ireland-is-a-laggard-in-terms-of-military-spending/"}}},{"_id":"F6AUBYPIBRE7PCLCX7PKV6DYEI","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"harry-mcgee","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee","type":"author","url":"/author/harry-mcgee/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Row over speaking rights has put all other Dáil business in abeyance for two months"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T19:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Verona Murphy will survive vote of confidence as Ceann Comhairle but at what cost to her standing?"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"XOOCSKI3XZDY5KUNPLPZVQZXQQ","auth":{"1":"c1f8191f19709d7367a433e5ed7dc9d78cc90847de4cb13f6a63dfb46143b93c"},"focal_point":{"x":504,"y":291},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/XOOCSKI3XZDY5KUNPLPZVQZXQQ.png"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/verona-murphy-will-survive-vote-of-confidence-as-ceann-comhairle-but-at-what-cost-to-her-standing/"}}},{"_id":"LIR2O5GHTBDN3I6OVPURYKYWAM","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"cormac-mcquinn","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn","type":"author","url":"/author/cormac-mcquinn/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Businessman and charity co-founder the latest person to reveal they are considering presidential tilt"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T17:07:57.53Z","headlines":{"basic":"Independent senator Aubrey McCarthy expresses interest in possible Áras run"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"EGYKG5Q4UNHOTEPXHT25LU4HRE","auth":{"1":"f01d5edef514c456de93c60908366ec87f6a35de27c336a202715115920195fd"},"focal_point":{"x":3670,"y":1312},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/EGYKG5Q4UNHOTEPXHT25LU4HRE.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/independent-senator-aubrey-mccarthy-expresses-interest-in-possible-aras-run/"}}},{"_id":"ONKFPR355ZBTBOHLBET63R4NZA","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"colm-keena","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Colm Keena"}},"name":"Colm Keena","type":"author","url":"/author/colm-keena/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern among those in attendance at Mass for man associated with party’s ‘Galway tent’ years"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T16:02:09.6Z","headlines":{"basic":"Former Fianna Fáil fundraiser Des Richardson lived life to full, funeral told"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"OLDDSHF74FAPBA4Q76YVIO4PPY","auth":{"1":"4b5884dd32eebcc78d117bdfdbeb219986758cf0c402deece9f509f08e0cb4ab"},"focal_point":{"x":3135,"y":1160},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OLDDSHF74FAPBA4Q76YVIO4PPY.JPG"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/funeral-of-former-fianna-fail-fundraiser-des-richardson-told-he-lived-life-to-the-full/"}}},{"_id":"BQCPPZKE5JFZPBJRU2FPQDC3HY","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"jack-power","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Power"}},"name":"Jack Power","type":"author","url":"/author/jack-power/"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Adam Leahy","type":"author"},{"_id":"cormac-mcquinn","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn","type":"author","url":"/author/cormac-mcquinn/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Taoiseach Micheál Martin said ‘engagement is key’ to dealing with the looming imposition of US tariffs"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T15:31:16.322Z","headlines":{"basic":"Cuts in State spending not on table in tariff ‘war gaming’, Chambers says"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6R2DGS5LIZF3ZEGERW4HC4VNBI","auth":{"1":"b298ed0cde7b99fcc7213482828729ae7719966be928ab37edd3b52e42b8acac"},"focal_point":{"x":2419,"y":1775},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6R2DGS5LIZF3ZEGERW4HC4VNBI.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/cuts-in-state-spending-not-on-table-in-tariff-war-gaming-chambers-says/"}}},{"_id":"P3PAB3YMGRBILA5RCVT3IWVEDA","credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Inside Politics podcast with Hugh Linehan"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T15:25:35.48Z","headlines":{"basic":"Are Labour getting too close to Sinn Féin for their own good?"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ","auth":{"1":"38cf5148d5a7d25ad482784454d89542e65347062ba7a88eeb3f5b1814cb7a0a"},"focal_point":{"x":1776,"y":1112},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2GADWTQ3LAUSRA6JIR5OHNCWQQ.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/inside-politics","name":"Inside Politics Podcast"},"website_url":"/podcasts/inside-politics/are-labour-getting-too-close-to-sinn-fein-for-their-own-good/"}}},{"_id":"AWUIII2FPNHQ3NB54UP6KXMZHI","credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Standards commissioner rules O’Neill did not breach ministerial code of conduct"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T13:41:13.06Z","headlines":{"basic":"O’Neill ‘did not see ex-press officer McMonagle at Stormont event’, report finds"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HQG7CIK75VUNXSHIIHHTC5YXVI","auth":{"1":"27f071363d2ee7e85b03d59cb4e498ef7232fdff1973d628c81bc83e3bf46c48"},"focal_point":{"x":588,"y":297},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HQG7CIK75VUNXSHIIHHTC5YXVI.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/oneill-did-not-see-ex-press-officer-mcmonagle-at-stormont-event-report-finds/"}}},{"_id":"YBJUHRSM4FGF5NA544VVQ66SWE","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"mark-hennessy","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hennessy"}},"name":"Mark Hennessy","type":"author","url":"/author/mark-hennessy/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Northern Ireland facing a ‘mounting list of problems in healthcare, public finance and other aspects of good governance’, new report says"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T13:23:06.096Z","headlines":{"basic":"Reforms that undermine Belfast Agreement will be ‘dangerous’, experts warn"},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Common Ground"}},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KH3GR3D5ASHBYBLHC5JCTKLC6M","auth":{"1":"e907eb59389d1d7f55f016025753cfa683ee6f7c564580a4469a11c043472432"},"focal_point":{"x":777,"y":279},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KH3GR3D5ASHBYBLHC5JCTKLC6M.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/reforms-that-undermine-belfast-agreement-will-be-dangerous-experts-warn/"}}},{"_id":"M4CJDIIB2RBGTH73FJUCPZO5JY","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"cormac-mcquinn","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn","type":"author","url":"/author/cormac-mcquinn/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Your essential end-of-week politics catch up"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T12:31:10.413Z","headlines":{"basic":"Political jitters as Trump’s tariff liberation day may bring serious ramifications for Ireland"},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"The Politics Fix","url":""}},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"Q56RATSYEVAGDPVWE4CHDQVLDM","auth":{"1":"0aac571c093a9952492242ecbc5c1756a652a39a80a2a09cb61973c739b46c52"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/Q56RATSYEVAGDPVWE4CHDQVLDM.png"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/28/trade-war-jitters-on-merrion-street-while-perpetual-dail-dispute-tests-patience/"}}},{"_id":"WF34XF5245HCBHJNSRYZVSIVNQ","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"cormac-mcquinn","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn","type":"author","url":"/author/cormac-mcquinn/"}]},"description":{"basic":"People can make submissions to feed into research on ‘key feature of Ireland’s democratic landscape’"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T16:03:20.766Z","headlines":{"basic":"An eyesore or a necessary tool: Public asked to offer views on future use of election posters"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JAEZGWEU5VGRZMIC7ZW3RSLTT4","auth":{"1":"9dcf1d68fdcd67f582ac0b630416532e7e878ae7c80c06ee00afd998e1e4d42f"},"focal_point":{"x":1875,"y":1126},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JAEZGWEU5VGRZMIC7ZW3RSLTT4.JPG"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/an-eyesore-or-a-necessary-tool-public-asked-to-offer-views-on-future-use-of-election-posters/"}}},{"_id":"2B5IGZOE2VEXVNOBRPN56GMSYY","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"marie-ohalloran","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran","type":"author","url":"/author/marie-ohalloran/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sinn Féin’s Pearse Doherty raises issue of audit sparked by whistleblower allegations"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T15:23:42.427Z","headlines":{"basic":"Hundreds of children had unnecessary hip surgery at Dublin hospitals, Dáil hears"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY","auth":{"1":"350a3118b3a87c501a58b63e23526bd0dc1f5f53b0f2795c3abb825a2bd828ec"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","name":"Oireachtas"},"website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/27/hundreds-of-children-had-unnecessary-hip-surgery-at-dublin-hospitals-dail-hears/"}}},{"_id":"JOEKSTUAFFERLBNGCXOUMBAYTQ","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"jack-power","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Power"}},"name":"Jack Power","type":"author","url":"/author/jack-power/"},{"_id":"jack-horgan-jones","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones","type":"author","url":"/author/jack-horgan-jones/"},{"_id":"Vivienne-Clarke","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Vivienne Clarke"}},"name":"Vivienne Clarke","type":"author","url":"/author/vivienne-clarke/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Opposition has objected to inclusion of controversial new speaking time slots for coalition-supporting Independents and Government backbenchers on Dáil schedule"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T14:43:00.447Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ceann Comhairle no confidence motion ‘a bit rich’ given Opposition’s behaviour in Dáil, says Taoiseach"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM","auth":{"1":"1df3d9a06aa9c4794c7dd5812d67e229df9afa7c58bb88f7a448f64127e54c9d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/INO35QV4OSAJRJBLP455AMHQFM.JPG"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/ceann-comhairles-impartiality-decimated-on-dail-floor-says-sinn-fein-leader/"}}},{"_id":"AX2ZFZFKONAKNLLICCMTQ3IQSU","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"cormac-mcquinn","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn","type":"author","url":"/author/cormac-mcquinn/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Previous motions have brought proceedings back to an even keel but it remains to be seen if next week’s will do the same"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T07:35:16.578Z","headlines":{"basic":"No confidence motion could break speaking rights row"},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Inside Politics Newsletter"}},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ","auth":{"1":"0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/no-confidence-motion-could-break-speaking-rights-row/"}}},{"_id":"RX2A4SE4PJCI7KC45E7O4LVFW4","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"pat-leahy","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy","type":"author","url":"/author/pat-leahy/"},{"_id":"jack-horgan-jones","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones","type":"author","url":"/author/jack-horgan-jones/"},{"_id":"harry-mcgee","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee","type":"author","url":"/author/harry-mcgee/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Debate and vote scheduled to oust Ceann Comhairle who has ‘impartially adhered to my solemn undertakings ... through the House to the Irish people’ "},"display_date":"2025-03-27T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘I at all times followed correct procedures’: Verona Murphy to resist Opposition no-confidence motion"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"32WRN7ZKFBASBO7XH4TUFUIXMI","auth":{"1":"34fb5296b9753d2a501160df706f3c9df6a2a4fefdd4d29a06464219f9c33c22"},"focal_point":{"x":491,"y":315},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/32WRN7ZKFBASBO7XH4TUFUIXMI.png"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/27/dail-speaking-rights-row-under-fire-verona-murphy-to-resist-opposition-no-confidence-motion/"}}},{"_id":"HCLA5F3FLZAXNLXUMTTKCBL7IA","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"marie-ohalloran","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran","type":"author","url":"/author/marie-ohalloran/"},{"_id":"harry-mcgee","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee","type":"author","url":"/author/harry-mcgee/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Bitter row over speaking rights dominated Dáil for second day as three opposition leaders called for Ms Murphy’s resignation"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T23:00:13.623Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy to face no-confidence vote next week as she denies Opposition claims"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ","auth":{"1":"0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","name":"Oireachtas"},"website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/ceann-comhairle-verona-murphy-to-face-no-confidence-vote-next-week-as-she-denies-opposition-claims/"}}},{"_id":"CF4DIY2BUVGFFFSN4JW6WOV4CI","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"pat-leahy","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy","type":"author","url":"/author/pat-leahy/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Explainer: Can Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy endure sustained attack? And when the Opposition loses the no-confidence vote, what will its next move be?"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T20:11:12.063Z","headlines":{"basic":"Verona Murphy’s survival as Ceann Comhairle hinges on two questions"},"label":{},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"LJSNYTBVUNFSDLFHU5HXD7L7ZI","auth":{"1":"471642a532a5707176a6456c70103f82a769422f3f7f35f85db72b0e909d43bc"},"focal_point":{"x":2567,"y":839},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/LJSNYTBVUNFSDLFHU5HXD7L7ZI.jpg"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","name":"Politics"},"website_url":"/politics/2025/03/26/dail-speaking-rights-row-outcome-of-dispute-turns-on-two-questions/"}}},{"_id":"W5X657NOIFE65LZ4Q6XUHICRC4","credits":{"by":[{"_id":"sarah-burns","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Sarah Burns"}},"name":"Sarah Burns","type":"author","url":"/author/sarah-burns/"},{"_id":"jack-white","additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack White"}},"name":"Jack White","type":"author","url":"/author/jack-white/"}]},"description":{"basic":"Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy responds as Opposition publishes no-confidence motion "},"display_date":"2025-03-26T19:49:23.248Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘I fully intend to continue’: Verona Murphy rejects ‘unfounded allegations’ of partiality and ‘will remain’ as Ceann Comhairle"},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Live: Dáil resumes"}},"owner":{"sponsored":false},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"X2KNK22TY556YPY5WXHR3NO4PA","auth":{"1":"bb053e0679bce4e9abd715893ce180d9cba3547b806e53751d951a9653c48fc8"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/X2KNK22TY556YPY5WXHR3NO4PA.JPG"},"lead_art":{"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"ea79124ad229576f1fb748d243a11f29c5a8f13eead73ec39cdb2c2b46b4321e"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_b4bb2e22c9b14ace820ebfd8845c98dc_name_file_960x540_1600_v4_.jpg"}},"type":"video"}},"type":"story","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","name":"Oireachtas"},"website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/"}}}],"count":10000,"next":40,"_id":"e692603339a661a1707d0d7f80532095b7ca5f45bd28300b984cf5c33adf2b8a"},"expires":1743500999065,"lastModified":1743500698728}},"story-feed-query":{"{\"feedOffset\":0,\"feedSize\":10,\"offset\":0,\"query\":\"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\\\/politics*) AND (subtype:\\\"Default\\\" OR \\\"live-story\\\")\",\"size\":10}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"SX2RDN4FCRERPMGKR6FX276GCQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":184,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/88ebbb15-6f3f-44f8-91e2-253e6e7e920c/versions/1743500604/media/74b6caf2fe8c4c05628d0a396b7e695e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/barry-heneghan-moves-dail-seat-away-from-michael-lowry-to-emphasise-his-independent-status/","content_elements":[{"_id":"EJ2TRIBYCFED3K6CZ34O7VM3C4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Barry Heneghan, the Independent TD for Dublin Bay North, has moved his seat in the Dáil away from that of Tipperary Independent TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ASU46M4LFES5OFHDJPSQVUVRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Both TDs are members of an Independent technical group composed of three Government-supporting TDs and two in Opposition. The decision of the Coalition to grant this group speaking rights for Leaders’ Questions and other priority slots in the Dáil has been the cause of the ongoing bitter row that has led to Tuesday’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/\">confidence motion in Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XUELTQWB6NDLBAMC7HQ6MDVWFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a letter to Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a>, which has been seen by The Irish Times, Mr Heneghan has said he will remain a member of the group but that there were clear political reasons behind his decision to distance himself from Mr Lowry in the Dáil. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3BPZPNZMU5FBXD3AQUMXEFDQD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said he would not be “bullied or intimidated” away from his stance, by Opposition TDs or by others. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBVZV2322FEF5JVZGT4YV6QYJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Heneghan, one of the youngest TDs in the Dáil, also emphasised his status as an Independent TD and also reminded Mr Martin that his support was not unconditional, but would depend on his priorities being delivered. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WDJBGPTIDZAJRF47IJUFWI7RVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“While some may see this as symbolic, for me it marks a clear commitment to the work I was elected to do free from unnecessary distractions and behaviour that, in my view, has been demeaning to the electorate,” he wrote in the letter. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OHOJV2RTCFGANIWERG3JVIZPXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Heneghan said he would continue to support the Government and try to deliver results for his constituents. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"F2CLAUQQDZAOVAM3LCKGMCQ6YE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I remain a member of the Technical Group, and I continue to support the Programme for Government so long as the priorities I was elected on are being progressed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3T6XPY4OONFILGCNVA5O5MWVPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I also want to restate clearly: I am an Independent TD, and I intend to act accordingly. If I wanted to align myself with a political party or the behaviour of other politicians, I would have joined one. I didn’t.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFIA32CPYVE6LMBV7MOGLSAYYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Heneghan has said he did not anticipate the level of “toxic and undermining behaviour” he would face, inside and outside, the Dáil. He said this could be partly attributed to his youth and inexperience. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MDIJERVPLZBOTJC6GV6CHKULXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I will not continue to tolerate it. The people who elected me expect focus, integrity, and delivery,” he has written. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HDOVNLOJABFOHIOBYOWWX27TAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Heneghan listed his priorities which include a new emergency department for Beaumont Hospital; a new building for Gaelcholáiste Reachrann; addressing the housing crisis; investing in disability services; tackling the shortage of special needs assistants; and upgrading community facilities across Dublin Bay North. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5S4EZGXVVHWFEHOCFRW5Q6NIQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I may have moved my seat, but I haven’t moved an inch from the mandate I was elected on. I will continue to engage constructively with the Government and Ministers where it helps deliver for Dublin Bay North, and I remain committed to the responsibilities placed on me,” he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UXYTRK2E3VCM7ESN6NTTGOJTZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Let me be clear: I will not be bullied or intimidated out of that position.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"}]},"description":{"basic":"The Dublin Bay North TD will remain a member of the Lowry technical group and will continue to support the Government"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T09:37:14.276Z","headlines":{"basic":"Barry Heneghan moves Dáil seat away from Michael Lowry to emphasise his ‘independent’ status","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY","auth":{"1":"86f0627e3019e3923b38eb3163082e3e49ce3928bc1a95d9a08154eff5193ddc"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ITKTEAFN6R3GHI5DRZDUSAUGDY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/barry-heneghan-moves-dail-seat-away-from-michael-lowry-to-emphasise-his-independent-status/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"TG5DKXG5YFCHVK6P5NXNGVXFFU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":187,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6da8e79c-a5fb-4666-ad8b-b4f9f8d16bf3/versions/1743500353/media/55680bdb1f63570cd0b3c5abea8c3579_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ireland-the-corporate-tax-model-of-what-us-should-do-says-former-trump-economic-adviser/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"A former senior economic adviser to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\">Donald Trump</a> has said that he admired Ireland’s corporate tax rate and that the US might be wiser in reducing its corporation tax, like Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"D4QK4GTJURCHJP7D2QKLF7TCDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Stephen Moore told RTÉ radio’s Morning Ireland that he would prefer to see the US reduce its corporation tax rather than raise its tariffs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IWZ33R2J75FQ5BFUS6Y4LZFTEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Ireland has the lowest corporate tax rate in virtually the world. We’ve always pointed to Ireland as really the model for what the United States should do. Better than raising our tariffs would be for the United States to bring our corporate rate down to 15 per cent, which would get closer to where Ireland is.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"UIQ77WCREZAM5PALC3QRCUW3DU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Moore added that he was fearful that <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/trump-presidency\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/trump-presidency\">Mr Trump</a>’s tariff plan would cost US jobs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JBAMSXI74RBATJHMGFOMFMCZ5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The US president is due to announce a new raft of tariffs on Wednesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NI5B6VELVFA2HPA2VSDXQMZ54M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“One of the ironies is that we are trying to protect our manufacturing base in the United States and our hard-working Americans who work the blue-collar jobs. But I do worry that the aluminium and steel tariffs and the other tariffs could actually cost US jobs in those industries because they’re going to make these products more expensive. It’s all in a bit of flux, right now.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZTN2ZFPWXNFTLFOHYLXZEMFOJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prof John McHale told the same programme that “the EU would be wise to take a measured approach to the retaliation”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TOS6DT6IBBH3REJFXDXINLQLI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The reason that you would have retaliation is to try to deter the policies of the Trump administration, but I do not think that Trump will be easily deterred and he’ll probably double down if there’s retaliation, so while there’s a lot of political pressure to retaliate, I think a measured approaches is appropriate.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"26QH57EKXREPVI5RKUMPSJ7VCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prof McHale added that the Irish economy was “definitely going to come under significant stress. The success of the Irish economy has very much been based on integration into the US economy, particularly with the presence of US multinationals here”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DKT5T27J5GZLLB2RL47X2YIBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“And the incentive to base here and to route a lot of their revenues and tax payments through the Irish economy, that is definitely going to come under stress”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJNBCJW3XZCD5JLBZQCF5ADSSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Separately, Tánaiste Simon Harris has confirmed threatened tariffs by the US and reciprocal tariffs by the EU could result in a “significant reduction of around half in the amount of pharmaceuticals we are exporting” to the US over a five-year period.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E47YVKMQHBHKLJGSBYHJ5OOYRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Harris qualified this by saying that “all of this is quite volatile and subject to change”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G2UDOMWTAVAJPICNKGKWDUH2XQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking on his way into Cabinet, Mr Harris said Ireland does not want to be “in that space”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7DOBKSZTJFN3MVXOFD5ELJTQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We don’t want to be in a space where we are seeing 20 per cent tariffs from the EU – we don’t want to be in a space where we see tariffs from the US, we want to be in a space where as a European Union ... we can sit down with the United States of America,” Mr Harris said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CL57URYCPZEPVNDEVNM5JHV5MY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Our economies are interdependent, it’s a trade relationship worth €1.6 trillion between the EU and the US every year. No president of any political persuasion can ignore that reality,” he said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Vivienne Clarke"}},"name":"Vivienne Clarke"}]},"description":{"basic":"US should reduce its corporation tax to 15 per cent to bring it closer to Ireland’s, contends Stephen Moore"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T09:29:45.543Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland ‘the corporate tax model’ of what US should do, says former Trump economic adviser","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ","auth":{"1":"b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ireland-the-corporate-tax-model-of-what-us-should-do-says-former-trump-economic-adviser/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"FP2NSTKARVC4XONVK5QFRVQ3KA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":190,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/564be3f8-7cdb-4f7c-a532-5af645b74fe3/versions/1743451454/media/f83a1659eef1d1a1e8be250aa02d8477_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/","content_elements":[{"_id":"762ZRYM4IZEDFMR7NAUTM75JZ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851068},"content":"Irish pharmaceutical exports to the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states/\" target=\"_blank\">United States</a> are projected to drop by half over the next five years in the event of a trade war between the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union/\" target=\"_blank\">European Union</a> and the US, officials have estimated.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHC7GFRVDVGKZNPJ745A5KO4DM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851069},"content":"As the EU braces for the announcement of a raft of tariffs by the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\">Trump</a> administration on Wednesday, the Cabinet will be told today that Irish exports would drop by 50 per cent by 2030 if the US goes ahead with an expected 20 per cent tariff and the EU retaliates with a similar move.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZVFKHJ4P5CWRELCWNWGAMTFP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851070},"content":"That would likely cost the Irish exchequer several billions of euro in lost revenue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I3UGVASYKRH3TAO7IORPBELBYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851071},"content":"Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\" target=\"_blank\">Simon Harris</a> will brief ministerial colleagues at today’s Cabinet meeting after he held a series of discussions with his European counterparts in recent weeks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDK74TYSMJAXRJ5RDFS4BKCK2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851072},"content":"Officials in several government departments have also been attempting to assess the likely economic implications of expected moves by the Trump administration and retaliation by the EU.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VNI37SKQMJHYHLYTFQD5WXZ75A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851073},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/government/\" target=\"_blank\">Government</a> hopes that following the announcement of tariffs on Wednesday the EU and US can move to a period of negotiation, rather than enter a tit-for-tat trade war.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GSG6KNNYNBDPPFAJ3EJHXWNY6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851074},"content":"But this may depend on the severity of what the US announces. While a general tariff of between 20-25 per cent is expected, there may be additional tariffs announced or signalled for the future on a number of sectors, including pharmaceuticals.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TF5A5WY3CJACRKCHJRUJYG2ALU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851075},"content":"Mr Harris is to attend a summit of EU trade ministers in Luxembourg on Sunday when they are expected to make decisions on how the EU would retaliate to any new US tariffs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UKCNQFMMDNE4PI7IFYA6SW5E2M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851076},"content":"Later today Mr Harris is to hold trade talks with the Italian foreign minister Antonio Tajani.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P4XNBF3F3JDHRI5YD2WT2KMBNI","additional_properties":{"_id":"4VINSV3XLRBF3IWAQCDQNHWSUQ"},"content":"US tariffs: Ireland to bolster competitiveness ahead of looming trade war","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"YPXJTBDAFVBFFHNYIGODR4G4OU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851077},"content":"On Monday Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Micheál Martin</a> said the Irish and European view was that “tariffs are bad for the economy” and “will negatively impact on economic growth across the world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4GENGIJHGRGFZG33HX5URRGXG4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851078},"content":"He said he hoped talks would take place and that “a landing zone suitable to everybody could be arrived at through negotiation and dialogue between the European Union and the US”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IGSBQ4HKMVHEPOG2PSXOMAPLUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851079},"content":"Separately, Minister for Public Expenditure <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-chambers/\" target=\"_blank\">Jack Chambers</a> is to brief Cabinet on the process of updating the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/national-development-plan/\" target=\"_blank\">National Development Plan</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CUEGQ52PGJF73JN5E2WKVYKJVQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851080},"content":"The review of the plan is said by a source to have “taken on greater significance” in the context of threatened US tariffs and their potential impact on the Irish economy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YVWK5ISG4VACXDBLMNQB3SVP4E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851081},"content":"Mr Chambers is expected to tell colleagues that the best way to safeguard against the effects of the tariffs is to focus investment in capital public projects and to tackle infrastructure deficits.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7KLWBQD2MFDXBNUUMR2TU3VCNE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851082},"content":"This is seen as “critical” for boosting economic growth and enhancing Ireland’s competitiveness.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUQYCWQQGJEGBM3Y2AXK5VDQFE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851083},"content":"There is to be a particular focus in the review on supporting housing provision as well as greater investment in energy, water, transport infrastructure and health digitalisation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I43KNPGRRZBRXGI2WS34ZS4QXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851084},"content":"The review of the development plan is due to be completed in July.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YEFQUBE3XJBVBJHLTZXPVNNFAI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851085},"content":"Ministers will be asked to identify projects that can be delivered on time and in budget, with a particular focus on achieving value for money.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Cabinet to be briefed on potential impact of US tariffs on the EU"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Irish pharma exports to US projected to halve over five years in event of trade war","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU","auth":{"1":"6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4"},"focal_point":{"x":2643,"y":1849},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"EDOGOZDTINFCDDJ75CXH6SCRLE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":259,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/21930cf9-b454-418d-a37b-b195dec545ee/versions/1743452769/media/bad34740c841bc32d1d83cbe914e1394_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/majority-of-homeowners-to-see-property-tax-increases-of-between-5-and-25/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UKTBC6HRGZDQJEPC2JM4MM2X2A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247172},"content":"The majority of homeowners will see <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/local-property-tax/\" target=\"_blank\">local property tax</a> (LPT) increases of between €5 and €25 following a revaluation of properties due to take place later this year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V7LQAQGJQ5AKPPLUDHE6GUKSOE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247173},"content":"Minister for Finance <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paschal-donohoe/\" target=\"_blank\">Paschal Donohoe</a> is expected to brief the Cabinet today on proposed changes to the LPT charging mechanism that are designed to limit the impact of rising property values on householders’ LPT rates.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQZ7CJ5RSBAAHFV5KQDGM5GGUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247174},"content":"The revaluation of properties for the LPT regime, the first since 2021, is due to happen in November. There was an average 23 per cent increase in property prices nationally between November 2021 and the end of 2024.","type":"text"},{"_id":"52LMTIP75NHTTGBGPSCCC3W57M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247175},"content":"Without any changes to LPT bands or rates, about 70 per cent of properties would move up at least one band, which would result in a significant increase in LPT.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CMZRR4QXQZD3PLSX2S7ONVZVTY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247176},"content":"However, under the changes being proposed by Mr Donohoe, 97 per cent of properties are predicted to stay within the same band, with 3 per cent predicted to move up one band.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RPCENKEEANAYLJ335XCLRPTQMI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247177},"content":"The Irish Times understands that, as a result of the planned changes, the new annual LPT rate for most homeowners after the revaluation will be between €5 and €25 higher depending on their property’s value.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UDA76BTHXBDDLAKBORJFI3O7YU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247178},"content":"Separately, Mr Donohoe is expected to seek Government approval for a six-month extension of the lower 9 per cent <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/vat/\" target=\"_blank\">VAT</a> rate on gas and electricity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BFOPJ2YTLZCU3CJNHHJ3V7W44A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247179},"content":"The VAT rate had been due to return to 13.5 per cent on May 1st but Mr Donohoe is proposing to bring a financial resolution to the Dáil on Wednesday to extend the 9 per cent rate to October 31st.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5DPSVTJ2LVCQBJZW3CZG2NCDOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247180},"content":"Meanwhile, Minister for Justice <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\">Jim O’Callaghan</a> is to seek Cabinet approval for new regulations related to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-garda-siochana/\" target=\"_blank\">Garda</a> conduct, performance and appointments.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MT632CETSVBWLEBXTBADZLIBIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247181},"content":"This secondary legislation is needed to support the commencement of the major Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024 from Wednesday onwards.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TOPOMJPXYZC4POAXOUZJ2RDZZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247182},"content":"The Act brings into effect a number of recommendations made by the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/commission-on-the-future-of-policing/\" target=\"_blank\">Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SHST3OR5P5BNPCMZJK26QKC5UE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247183},"content":"When the Act is commenced tomorrow, the new Policing and Community Safety Authority will replace the existing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/policing-authority/\" target=\"_blank\">Policing Authority</a> and Garda Síochána Inspectorate. The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/garda-siochana-ombudsman-commission/\" target=\"_blank\">Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission</a> (Gsoc) will be restructured to become Fiosrú – the Office of the Police Ombudsman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ZG3BTSCFFACTKQD5ELBQGEEI4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247184},"content":"Among the new regulations is one that means Garda members can request an appeal against a final determination of gross misconduct, with an appeal being heard by a retired judge who would be an “impartial adjudicator” of the evidence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVLWYE5CKVA7BACCRPFEQ7P3DA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247185},"content":"Minister for Housing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/james-browne/\" target=\"_blank\">James Browne</a> will tell Cabinet there has been an increase in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/housing-crisis/\" target=\"_blank\">housing</a> commencements since the introduction of the development contribution waiver and Uisce Éireann connection charge rebate in April 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DIDZ45NVKNAXZFNAKY6IX3B6HA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247186},"content":"Data shows 69,060 homes were commenced in 2024 compared with 26,957 in 2022, representing an increase of 156 per cent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QZDGATDIJFFCPITKXRWO4EO7EY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247187},"content":"Developers now have 21 months left to complete these housing developments to qualify for the waivers. Mr Browne is expected to tell Cabinet the schemes will not be extended further.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B3DZINOP5ZHIZKX6PRRY7XP5ZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247188},"content":"Minister for Children <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/norma-foley/\" target=\"_blank\">Norma Foley</a> is to bring a memo on allowing the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/state-claims-agency/\" target=\"_blank\">State Claims Agency</a> (SCA) to handle any potential claims relating to the Office of the Director of Authorised Intervention, Tuam.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AKYQO3QU6VGEJLBO7QUZDSOUUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247189},"content":"The role of the office is to recover, where possible to identify, and re-bury in a respectful and appropriate way, the children who were inappropriately buried at the site of the former <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mother-and-baby-homes/\" target=\"_blank\">mother and baby institution</a> in Tuam, Co Galway. Including the office under the SCA’s remit is said to be “standard practice” for newly established public bodies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HXHUIWBEOFH3VBCK23F7EPJYC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247190},"content":"Meanwhile, Minister for Health <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jennifer-carroll-macneill/\" target=\"_blank\">Jennifer Carroll MacNeill</a> will brief colleagues on a 70 per cent fall in the number of patients on hospital trolleys over the St Patrick’s bank holiday weekend last month compared with St Brigid’s weekend in February.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIDXLI4ETFDZTGRRNQGIL5L2OA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247191},"content":"Ministers will be told that an increase in on-site decision-making doctors was a significant factor in the reduction.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"}]},"description":{"basic":"Paschal Donohoe expected to brief colleagues on proposed changes to LPT charging mechanism to limit the impact of rising property values on householders "},"display_date":"2025-04-01T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Majority of Irish homeowners to see property tax increases this year ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM","auth":{"1":"a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e"},"focal_point":{"x":1893,"y":1263},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/majority-of-homeowners-to-see-property-tax-increases-of-between-5-and-25/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"GGMP4OWTZFGTFI5X4645RMBETA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":415,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/35873a19-2ea3-4125-8ff1-fbd69f7ad1c9/versions/1743433169/media/f75f7d52808f09011de197076e6159a7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HHR5ANINDVHNPPACPIDSIEOS7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309244},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"32XU3NBDVJDJ3L2T3B6VYJ5L5I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309245},"content":"In March 1972, just weeks after Bloody Sunday when 13 unarmed civilians were shot by British Army paratroopers, a young Derry boy named Cormac Quigley wrote to taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\">Jack Lynch</a> expressing his unhappiness that he was not able to go outside to play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VNOEGMVHREAZLBRKPSTCT3B7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309246},"content":"During some of the darkest days of the Troubles, the letter touched Lynch, who told the boy he understood his “feelings of boredom at not being able to play freely in your own city”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GRH63GROGNDX7JKRZRXCATP2GY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309247},"content":"In the reply, drafted on his behalf by an official, Lynch said he “hopes and prays” Northern Ireland’s problems would soon be resolved, adding he “anxiously awaited” British ideas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UO7YLYHQ7JCEXAXKTUUK5HMNXQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309249},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7L5OIXR5VEBNGLTUIVPBS276Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309250},"content":"The letter is one of thousands of documents published in the latest volume of Documents on Irish Foreign Policy covering the years 1969 to 1973,, launched on Monday night by Minister of State for International Development and the Diaspora Neale Richmond.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZG6G5QTABRFZNIP5X66EFGL3LI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309252},"content":"The files show how, from 1969, Dublin struggled to understand what was happening on the ground in Northern Ireland, responding “awkwardly, caught seemingly unaware by the violence and without a prepared strategy”, the book’s editors write.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTULADS3PRFOTIFUYAOL37CQQM","additional_properties":{},"content":"By July 1969, Northern Ireland had begun to occupy minds in Iveagh House, though a major policy document then being worked on as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/patrick-hillery/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/patrick-hillery/\">Paddy Hillery</a> took over as minister for external affairs was quickly overtaken by events.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FLT46YFBQFAAVED374S7WWESZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309255},"content":"Warnings about the future came daily. In late July 1969, Con Howard, based in the Irish Embassy in London, relayed <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-hume/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-hume/\">John Hume’s</a> fear that “Derry is a powder keg” and that Stormont “had lost control”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZWUOQUFENDTHOP4NRCMFKYRXE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309256},"content":"Offering a prescient alarm, Hume said the August 12th Apprentice Boys march “was going to be particularly dangerous”, since the organisers planned on bringing 73 bands instead of the usual 17.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MM6ALP4IXVFCFPRSKQWC43BVP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309257},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"THZL3X6OUFGARGIIIFAQUDR4FQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309259},"content":"Northern Ireland’s prime minister James Chichester-Clark could not ban the Derry march, he accepted, because “the right wing of the Ulster Unionist Party would tear the organisation apart” if he tried.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFYA3IGOYRFLDKEUEHXAMAJW4A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309260},"content":"Sending in British troops would “be dicey” but it might “be a lesser evil than the use of B Specials”, he said, though it would be extremely important that soldiers were “carefully briefed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBDKGGTQPFAGDKN6VXJM7DC3QE","additional_properties":{"_id":"PG4GXSBEQVFH7EUEJ25ITP5UX4"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ZIGEEIEMXVCI5GQO7U3XKBKZPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309261},"content":"In early August, Hillery, still settling into Iveagh House, warned the British foreign secretary Michael Stewart that preparations for the Apprentice Boys “had been deliberately stepped up”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HIS4ALPOGBA73CVS2H4KZG33YY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309262},"content":"London then, and for several years more, however, refused to accept Dublin’s right to involve itself or to even offer opinions, saying responsibility rested with London and Stormont “and not with your government”, the files show.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SLWJGXSL5BHDHC42HOBSCBFPFA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309263},"content":"Noting Hillery’s concern, Stewart declared: “I must say to you that there is a limit to the extent to which we can discuss with outsiders – even our nearest neighbours - this internal matter.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DYJFG4F5NNGRNIH5NPCBJKH2VM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309264},"content":"Taking a determined line, Hillery warned his counterpart that serious disorder in Derry “might well spill over into his country” and, then, it would have to be raised before the United Nations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4FPBOBCFKZHN3FO3II3ZM6LR4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309265},"content":"Even with the deep apprehension held about the loyalist march, Lynch’s cabinet was still unprepared for what unfolded in Derry, “so much so that several ministers, including Hillery, were on holiday”, the book’s editors write.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IGIMGWX3T5GJRD6B4TSU2BCCCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Partition was a male invention. Gender impacted on how revolutionary events unfolded, and how partition was remembered","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"W5CXIYVTDJCXTL6EKBHTJDKJT4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309266},"content":"The volume carries many of the memos written by Irish official Eamonn Gallagher, who went to Derry without the approval of his superiors in August 1969 to learn what was happening on the ground.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EHG54MJ3HRFYJNORNFOTDAMJF4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309267},"content":"There, he formed a lasting friendship with Hume, even later sharing family holidays. Soon he became a trusted adviser to both Lynch and Hillery, until he fell out of favour with Lynch in 1972 after he boasted of how he dominated the Corkman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MXBSCVHGH5D7NLOE72YQIOVTK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309268},"content":"In March 1971, just weeks after the death of gunner Robert Curtis, the first British soldier to die in the Troubles, and rioting had scarred Belfast and Derry, Gallagher sat down to pen a note to his superiors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YD3IE2TSFBFPXHMPY45LWKXCZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309269},"content":"“In dealing with the North, one must constantly be on guard against both depression and euphoria,” said the Glasgow-born official, who argued for peaceful Irish unity, along with close co-operation with Hume.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E4DCMJSKPRECHE4WFI675GJC7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309270},"content":"Reflecting the fevered atmosphere, Gallagher warned “it is difficult to avoid infection” from contacts because “even the most stable of them swing from one mood to the other.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SQIPCLLAVBBRFNKFWUNHPUHQNA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309271},"content":"“Depending on the controlling mood of the moment everything said and done ... is interpreted more or less inaccurately and what doesn’t fit the momentary state of mind tends to be ignored,” he wrote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HJAKVGN67FDB3HS7G7OTWBDTE4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309272},"content":"Early on, the government realised that it had few links with influential British journalists and politicians and a major lobbying effort was put in hand, quickly paying dividends and becoming jocularly known as “dining for Ireland”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JSXA2QRMHRH7XOUTWYDXBWBY7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309273},"content":"By early February 1972, Gallagher cautioned against an idea of leaving the London lobbying to a Geneva-based public relations firm Markpress that had been hired for some work the year before.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CWUFRTMDUVHG5POG6274ZJ73G4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309274},"content":"The diplomats had been “very effective” with the Sunday Times and others, though the Guardian’s Northern Irish and unionist deputy editor John Cole had “managed to prevent” it from “coming as far with us as its liberal reputation might have suggested”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WBVW573G3REYFGPTAKPIS2DZUI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309275},"content":"Throughout the research, which has led to a volume running to more than 1,000 pages, Dr Kate O’Malley of the Royal Irish Academy had the sense of the fears, even near panic, felt by officials and politicians that everything could fall apart.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSO2VCSKHNHS5MS7G47TMN3RQM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309276},"content":"“There’s something not right about some of the material we looked [at]. There’s a lack of telegrams. There’s a lack of handwritten notes about phone calls or even typed notes about phone calls,” she said, all reflecting the rush of the time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J6TTDPWH3FBVHGX2XZEYG4QOSM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309277},"content":"For some, Bloody Sunday was “the last straw”, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VB2RRLFDF5GV5M6PZCZUAQB6PE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Albert Reynolds tried to justify appointment of controversial attorney-general Whelehan to High Court","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"G3N7J7JJVVCLNOERMAZKYG4I6Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309278},"content":"In one file, an Irish Army intelligence officer present in Derry on the day reported the paratroopers’ undisciplined firing and witnessing the killing of one man who had lain injured for minutes on the road.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SP34OF767JHOJEWSXBFRTGBVEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309279},"content":"“I, then, saw the man’s coat jump twice in the air, saw two puffs of smoke at his back and also heard two shot reports. All of this happened in quick succession,” wrote the officer, whose name is redacted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PJCEYFURLZDXRIABNZEJLV6I34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309280},"content":"Irish embassy official Charles Whelan was warned, a day after the Derry killings by a senior foreign office official Kelvin White, that he would end a meeting if he continued to accuse the British Army of “telling lies”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BLC56SZJRJDRTAOYUZQ6CIKX3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309281},"content":"Insisting that the paratroopers were disciplined troops, White deplored the Irish government’s call for a convention to discuss “a final settlement of the Irish question”, as he called it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3KMGWPX2NBAKNNQXBHBQIID6KA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309282},"content":"In the end, the two diplomats sought a way of parting on reasonable terms, with White telling his Irish counterpart: “We have both lost and the only people to have gained are the IRA.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hennessy"}},"name":"Mark Hennessy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Derry boy Cormac Quigley’s note arrived during some of the darkest days of the Troubles"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T14:54:23.301Z","headlines":{"basic":"Boy’s letter about not being able to play outside after Bloody Sunday touched taoiseach, new State records show","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Common Ground","url":"/common-ground/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ","auth":{"1":"45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0"},"focal_point":{"x":462,"y":357},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4","auth":{"1":"3621094a80576cd9edf9549c0d2d7a76011c5f5dcb887e8390b004644bcf2848"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"RVRLQP4GUZEXBJDC34QQT62AJY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":228,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/96934825-1041-4011-8a84-bd0dbdc75bb3/versions/1743363868/media/88949951308254abde9b22d73cedfe25_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/legislation-being-examined-as-way-to-deal-with-dublin-airport-cap-once-and-for-all/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FDDVICAWBFDOJGC5NWMYDLWPEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government is to consider interventions to lift the passenger cap at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\">Dublin Airport</a>, including potentially passing laws allowing the limit to be increased. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6KPZVNO53JA2TBAZJAITD23FPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The cap of 32 million passengers coming through the airport annually is at the centre of a protracted planning saga, with the Government of the view the limit hinders economic growth. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4HEUV57J7ZCT3J3YAH56T2MARA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Coalition sources said the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport-authority/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport-authority/\">DAA</a>, which runs the airport, will be expected to persevere with its planning application – but even if a favourable outcome is reached, they believe it could be between three and five years before a solution is in place.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZVMZSS4AVZDFLOAUFJD27GFSMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We need permanent solutions,” one senior Government source said, adding that the current situation could not be tolerated.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BHORL5AAURAU5KARAA4UQG7OSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Transport <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-o-brien/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-o-brien/\">Darragh O’Brien</a> has now received updated advice from attorney general <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rossa-fanning/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rossa-fanning/\">Rossa Fanning</a> on the matter, which includes the potential to pass legislation effectively carving the decision out from planning laws. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LFMP7QGBZHJPDXB2PKCCJFWHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"One potential precedent is 2022 legislation on temporary energy generation, which disapplied planning laws to designated developments, although it is understood that such an approach is not risk free and would likely face a challenge by those opposed to increasing the passenger cap. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEFSP2KDGZH3HAGRQBLOYKMZ2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Draft options for moving forward are expected to be sent to Mr O’Brien in coming weeks. He will hold meetings with airlines this week, including the lobby group Airlines for America, amid suggestions the row could be politicised with the risk carriers could formally complain to the US government about the cap, which they believe breaches EU-North American air travel treaties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UOR3HNID2VDXJKV2FUMF3U2PIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wednesday could see the start of a US-EU trade war – how would Ireland be affected?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"WNAAIVHHPFBRLHWWFHPWD7HEOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"There is a view within Government that increased headwinds for foreign direct investment and the looming likelihood of an EU-US trade war have added to the case for action. “It’s clear the cap as it currently is in place, even if paused, has the potential to ensure we lose future investment,” a senior source said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"J3D27BIPSBH77DCAKMHPO6WVLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"A group of airlines last week <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/28/airlines-urge-high-court-judge-to-extend-pause-on-dublin-airport-passenger-cap/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/28/airlines-urge-high-court-judge-to-extend-pause-on-dublin-airport-passenger-cap/\">sought an extension</a> to a current pause on the introduction of the cap, but the Government believes such an approach is “not sustainable going forward”. Mr O’Brien is said to have met the attorney general in recent days along with senior officials and is now understood to be “looking at legislative ways forward for dealing with the cap once and for all”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4VAPPLUQNEDTIIJ6EXBWCKH74","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin Airport cap at risk of being dragged into US trade tensions","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"4CNZPOJABNGPBPF73ZTWBBIUSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It comes as the government braces for the announcement of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs/\">tariffs on the EU</a> by the Trump White House, with coalition ministers signalling over the weekend that reforms targeting Irish competitiveness and the domestic economy were needed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HK2KOVQTSRHXZEN44HW56P2TTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement to The Irish Times, Tánaiste <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\">Simon Harris</a> said it was “vital that we accelerate measures to further increase our competitiveness and strengthen our position as a good location in which to invest and create jobs”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NEUSEC2NTRBI3AMHEH6FXUIPDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Harris, who will brief cabinet on Tuesday on the latest tariff developments, will speak to other European countries with large pharmaceutical sectors as the Government intensifies efforts to shield those parts of the Irish economy likely to be exposed to US tariffs as the EU intends to target US producers in their sectors. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EVC7UXSEWNFOVLXPWSKEIGQM7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> spoke to EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday evening, raising Ireland’s “particular focus” on the food, drinks and pharma industries. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SEEMY6BUYVG7LB23BDMFKOS2W4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach says Ireland will protect food, pharma sectors in call with EU Commission","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"6Y2QDFLAGZGBXM4E7HV5K6YDFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Enterprise <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peter-burke/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peter-burke/\">Peter Burke</a> will brief coalition leaders on plans to “sharpen up” on competitiveness, including new legislation on private wires which allow individuals or other energy users to run their own cables to transfer electricity, reform to security clearance for investment through Enterprise Ireland and Environmental Protection Agency licensing reform. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"C72VPMRZ4RE6THIB2MY6LE4I34","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fine Gael sources pointed to Programme for Government commitments to cut red tape for firms as a priority, as is a promised cut in the VAT rate for hospitality. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}]},"description":{"basic":"Potential for EU-US trade war has added to need for action on passenger cap"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Legislation being examined as way to deal with Dublin Airport cap ‘once and for all’","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI","auth":{"1":"a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0"},"focal_point":{"x":2157,"y":1523},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Transport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/legislation-being-examined-as-way-to-deal-with-dublin-airport-cap-once-and-for-all/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"BAL5DASJKZBI5OILQQX53DGGFE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":176,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/33872c09-c030-43c8-a4d4-3cc952d2220c/versions/1743358318/media/3bdb619b79874803014be4e2fac63213_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/those-convicted-of-killing-their-spouse-face-losing-guardianship-rights-under-draft-laws/","content_elements":[{"_id":"N4RGMIC6FJCCXPMM3VSKE7ZTMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Those convicted of killing their spouse face losing guardianship rights over their children, under draft laws to be brought to Cabinet this week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BK5EIQPSPRBR7G3B7UT5IOA44A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Justice <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\">Jim O’Callaghan</a> is to seek Cabinet approval for the publication of the Guardianship of Infants (Amendment) Bill - known as “Valerie’s Law” after Valerie French, a mother of three who was murdered by her husband James Kilroy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KGVBUKHC5VF3JMS6E7ZSMSTWBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms French’s family have campaigned for reforms to guardianship rights in such circumstances since her husband’s conviction, arguing that in practice, those who kill their spouses have a right to know where their children live and to be involved in major decisions about them. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PVOXTWEESRCOZLP2VR5T252UYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The scheme follows a 2023 report, Study on Familicide & Domestic and Family Violence Death Reviews, and an interim report conducted last year relating to the study which included recommendations on guardianship rights for a parent who is in custody, accused of, or serving a sentence for the murder or manslaughter of their child or children’s other parent. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"O3RBROYGHFBPVJH3ZATADZHSZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms French’s family had pointed to a finding in the 2023 report that recommended legislation be amended “to ensure that a parent who is convicted of the murder or manslaughter of the other parent does not retain guardianship of the surviving child or children”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GFTLNL5WUVBXFGFS37GLEXJCD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2024/08/03/my-sister-valerie-french-kilroy-was-our-warrior-princess-change-the-law-to-protect-her-children/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2024/08/03/my-sister-valerie-french-kilroy-was-our-warrior-princess-change-the-law-to-protect-her-children/\">Writing in The Irish Times last year</a>, Ms French’s brother David French argued: “Who would gain and who would lose if it was enacted? In this case, the losers are convicted killers and the winners are traumatised children.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEAQYCLWMVFH7P6ZVKYZVXU6TQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under the legislation, an application will be allowed to be brought before the District Court to remove guardianship rights from such a perpetrator. Mr O’Callaghan has signalled that introducing the legislation is a key priority for him. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SR7F6PNXPFAWHMNTJPIKMV5OZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Life of Valerie French ‘taken in the cruelest, most violent and terrifying way possible’, brother says","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"GYHKLC6UKNF2TLJYL452XJVYJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He will tell Cabinet it is his strong view that issues arising around guardianship of children in a domestic violence or coercive control scenario should not be regarded as a matter of private law to be determined between the families concerned, but should be regarded as a child protection and welfare issue arising in the public law arena. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ETK4RMTGPNDBLMM7QHULEJHRAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The programme for government commits the Coalition to examine such proposals.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OMS3BMKH2BFKVNJ2L7YBIF6CDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under the provisions of the Bill, following the murder or manslaughter of a parent by the other parent of their children, or a serious incapacitation of one parent by the other, an application to the court may be brought removing the perpetrator as guardian with another person being appointed. The parent concerned may also be confirmed as guardian of the child. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6U3ZC4GHWJGKTEOUS5SD4TZWFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The courts will also be able to give directions regarding the custody of the child and rights of access to the child or children. A judge will be able to specify a period under which the removal of guardianship rights is to remain in effect, and impose conditions relating to periodic review by the court or for additional matters as the court considers necessary in the best interests of the child concerned. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}]},"description":{"basic":"Minister for Justice to seek Cabinet approval for Bill known as ‘Valerie’s Law’ this week"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"People convicted of killing their spouse face losing guardianship rights","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI","auth":{"1":"3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff"},"focal_point":{"x":1459,"y":704},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/those-convicted-of-killing-their-spouse-face-losing-guardianship-rights-under-draft-laws/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"OCGL6UPBD5GNPHRPA43M4JARBI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":233,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/480df796-f76c-4a3b-9bf8-237d9edd4e55/versions/1743364356/media/57a5bba1e7121ba0ebdfbab40b205769_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/us-tariffs-ireland-to-bolster-competitiveness-ahead-of-looming-trade-war/","content_elements":[{"_id":"KT2WJTUY4BAWDG37IT4XEWXH2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591088},"content":"Coalition leaders are to discuss moves to bolster <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\" target=\"_blank\">Irish</a> competitiveness amid efforts to shield vulnerable sectors from the fallout of a looming <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states\" target=\"_blank\">US</a>-<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union\" target=\"_blank\">EU</a> trade war.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASSL2L25WNFBHNTVSOMO6CRVZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591091},"content":"With US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\">Donald Trump</a> expected to announce <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs\" target=\"_blank\">tariffs</a> on a swathe of EU exports this Wednesday, Tánaiste <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris\" target=\"_blank\">Simon Harris</a> warned it is “vital” that Ireland “accelerate measures to further increase our competitiveness and strengthen our position as a good location in which to invest and create jobs”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XR43SOUHXBDDXFPITANRDRQYSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591092},"content":"He said Ireland must “control what we can control and influence what we can influence”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UHE2LUFAMRBEJJBLTD7RIQRRVU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591093},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Micheál Martin</a> spoke to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-commission/\" target=\"_blank\">European Commission</a> president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ursula-von-der-leyen/\" target=\"_blank\">Ursula von der Leyen</a> on Sunday, saying he “raised Ireland’s particular focus on the food, drinks and pharma industries”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SFCHHDOWIJAHTA2PL4AGCUXRRU","additional_properties":{"_id":"ZQ346VSFFFBCPDVPQQBR333GTY"},"content":"Eight critical pointers to look out for on Trump’s tariff D-day","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"55FYVHOEQRB2FPFRJYLGEZUN6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591094},"content":"The imposition of tariffs on EU goods is expected to lead to retaliatory action by Brussels which could expose some Irish exporters to significant costs if the US in turn targets their sectors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LADFM5P4UVD4NCKUM6ICGK4LEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591095},"content":"Ireland’s EU Commissioner Michael McGrath said “we are unquestionably at a critical juncture right now”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JYZVVK577VDUPJYDAWWUPMKNFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591096},"content":"“The unknown at this stage is whether the US wants a negotiated settlement or whether it is wedded to the idea of tariffs as a permanent economic measure,” he told The Irish Times.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3TPO2HKMRRBUDJ57CIQETLWHYQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591097},"content":"On Sunday, Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke told RTÉ the Irish economy needs to “sharpen up” on competitiveness issues. Coalition leaders will be briefed by Mr Burke on Monday night on what he described as “quick wins” to improve competitiveness, including legislating for the use of “private wires”, which allow individuals or energy users to run their own cables to transfer electricity. He also flagged reforms to security clearance through Enterprise Ireland and Environmental Protection Agency licensing reform.","type":"text"},{"_id":"74ZPPT5ZKFDM7B4TSUFSKI27YI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591098},"content":"Fine Gael sources also pointed to programme for Government commitments to cut red tape for firms as a priority, as is a promised cut in the VAT rate for hospitality. However, expansive pandemic-style supports for businesses are not on the table as of now.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JKUWQL5AKZFRDG3UL5BLVBLXYI","additional_properties":{"_id":"ETHYQFT26BD73KDGEVY6EQY2KQ"},"content":"US tariffs will curb exports and slow growth, ESRI warns","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ML6VVM7RWFDETD5CZ2W7TTCPZQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591099},"content":"Minister for Trade Mr Harris is expected to ramp up engagement with his European counterparts before the imposition of tariffs, and will brief Cabinet on the latest tariff developments on Tuesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VYSW7FW35ZEUDB6LKHZON2DZBA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591100},"content":"He wrote to EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič in recent days flagging concerns about the spirits and dairy sectors being caught up in a trade war if Brussels goes ahead with planned tariffs on US products in these sectors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWCRTCTO25GMVDYNWXWA4IK6NI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591101},"content":"The Irish Whiskey Association, in a submission on tariffs to the European Commission, warned tariffs on American spirits could lead to their members being targeted and outlining their concern such EU tariffs “would be ineffective and disproportionate”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CDOVXT4HA5AKDODZL33MVQYOPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591102},"content":"In the coming week, Ireland is likely to seek allies in Europe to argue against the EU including pharmaceutical goods on its list of retaliatory tariffs. Mr Harris will have calls with his Dutch, Danish and Swedish counterparts – all three countries have significant pharma industries.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6U24YINKJVAQPBW7PM3CBUWJOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591103},"content":"Following his call with Dr von der Leyen, Mr Martin posted on X that the pair had agreed the EU should be “measured and considered in any response, and focused on our own competitiveness and an ambitious trade agenda”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OX2LYHKLCJAXPBR3X7TLMVQQIM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591104},"content":"Dr von der Leyen outlined her expectations for developments on tariffs this week, Mr Martin said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C5KJ5G6BHFBFVIFTODGVH2BIBI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591105},"content":"Government sources here are cautioning that Brussels’ response should not hurt Europe more than the US.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MBXYBPSTGVFBBLMNEAJGCBF6NU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591106},"content":"Officials in the Department of Trade have warned that pharmaceutical tariffs could remain in place for an extended period which would impact on supply chains. If the EU imposed tariffs, Government sources said, it risks driving up the cost base of the sector within the bloc.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}]},"description":{"basic":"US president Donald Trump expected to announce tariffs on a swathe of EU exports in April"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"US tariffs: Ireland to bolster competitiveness ahead of looming trade war","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6VCACUF3RZE6NN5N6UU63EUW5Y","auth":{"1":"ae00a15721573199b2d7b666acab3e50d8bd31c3df368f95b8d29c1d9dc5a92e"},"focal_point":{"x":1190,"y":1015},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6VCACUF3RZE6NN5N6UU63EUW5Y.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/us-tariffs-ireland-to-bolster-competitiveness-ahead-of-looming-trade-war/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"HI3XOCB2XNAOXAJ45OEIU6NGNM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":224,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/118b867b-b6c1-47b0-8255-bab130247b3f/versions/1743263594/media/588d8b804e8757fe99e86c5ba9744ea7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/us-demands-for-its-airlines-to-land-at-dublin-threatened-aer-lingus-and-west-of-ireland-lynch-told-nixon/","content_elements":[{"_id":"J2IJ4PXQMNCN7ETN7CO2PXIZZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736809},"content":"A bitter row between Dublin and Washington over United States demands for landing rights at Dublin Airport in the early 1970s threatened <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/aer-lingus/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/aer-lingus/\">Aer Lingus</a> and the Irish government’s plans to develop the west of Ireland, then taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\">Jack Lynch</a> told US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/richard-nixon/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/richard-nixon/\">Richard Nixon</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6ERY6TRKE5EVZBLZKLMBO3XLHQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736810},"content":"Washington had complained from the mid-1960s about the Irish government’s decision to force US airlines to land passengers at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shannon-airport/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shannon-airport/\">Shannon Airport</a>, not Dublin as the airlines wanted as they preferred flying to capital cities.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZWUVEH3GJGYFK7CHOKFZGY7JY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736811},"content":"In a frank letter to Mr Nixon in November 1971, Mr Lynch told the US president he needed to be forthright by stressing the government was “deeply concerned” about the landing rights row.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ROA3N3W7JJHERPFK2Q7IPTB5Z4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736812},"content":"The Irish government allowed the two big US airlines, Pan American and TWA, to land and, just as importantly, to refuel at Shannon, but they were not allowed land at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\">Dublin Airport</a>. Instead, Dublin-bound passengers were flown onwards by Aer Lingus.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JLAUUJMBGNBSXA7HY6DGWXOCZA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736813},"content":"In late July 1971, the US government said it would revoke Aer Lingus’s landing rights at JFK Airport in New York from August 1972 unless an agreement was reached with the government that dealt with the US complaints.","type":"text"},{"_id":"77DE4OQLONALJI6SLFXMNS6ZS4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736814},"content":"“In our view it is not contestable that the issues at stake are comparably greater for this country than for the United States,” Mr Lynch said, even though he accepted the US authorities believed the existing Irish/US aviation deal was unbalanced.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MQAMIZ6BFBDBNNMVHKT4Q325KU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The facts seem to be quite clear. For the United States, whatever the merits of its case may be, Dublin rights are a peripheral matter. The granting or refusal of such rights is a matter of minuscule importance to the United States economy,” he wrote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OCQBEM7GJFAWFDQAGLP4XWEXDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Documents on Irish Foreign Policy (Vol 14) 1969-73: The North, above all else, required the Department of Foreign Affairs to up its game","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"YZE4R3AW4BEV5JNQCI5LDTX5HU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The letter is included in the latest volume of documents on Irish foreign policy covering the years 1969 to 1973, which will be launched in Dublin on Monday by Tánaiste <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\">Simon Harris</a> at the Department of Foreign Affairs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4RQLSF7GQFGDHGUYMSRJH2ZR64","additional_properties":{},"content":"In his letter, Mr Lynch said the consequences of ending the Shannon rule were “of much greater importance” to the Irish government and for Aer Lingus, which was successfully operating on the JFK route, than they were for the United States.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U6WL6UZA6FDY5BK7JGHXB22C2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736817},"content":"“The revenue implications for our small national airline are very considerable indeed. They have developed their existing traffic though great expense and effort. Their whole financial position would be imperilled,” he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"J5DJZKBEAVFIZPSXVOBBAU7DDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736818},"content":"The impact on the government’s plans to develop the west of Ireland if Shannon lost services would be even more significant, Mr Lynch warned, stating such plans and the future of Shannon Airport “would be placed at hazard”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V466DE4LH5EG3D7XHTIJM5P2N4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736819},"content":"“Indeed, the underdeveloped state of the west made it one of the main sources of the flow of Irish emigrants to your great country. The Shannon area is now our greatest growth centre outside of Dublin,” Mr Lynch said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYOK2S3AAFCN3FQWVNNFXIDSNM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736820},"content":"The granting of Dublin landing rights for US airlines would have a significant impact “on the morale of all connected with the development of Shannon and the west”, he said, judging by the reaction from workers, politicians and the press.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z2WMSVJX3VBP5PZOL27BHXWXP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736821},"content":"The US threat to end Aer Lingus’ landing rights at JFK “has naturally caused the widest disquiet”, with “a great many people feeling that their jobs and their future are now in greatest jeopardy”, Mr Lynch told Mr Nixon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5QOJKEB7R5BORFTRHR2CKSAOZ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736822},"content":"However, the Lynch letter failed to stem the US demand, with Irish-American relations worsening in spring 1972 to the worst they had been since the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/second-world-war/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/second-world-war/\">second World War</a> when Washington was annoyed with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eamon-de-valera/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eamon-de-valera/\">Éamon de Valera</a>’s neutrality policy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SKNKPCYPJ5FWJNK27BDOLWK5LE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736823},"content":"In 1973, Lynch lost power and was replaced by Fine Gael’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liam-cosgrave/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liam-cosgrave/\">Liam Cosgrave</a>, who allowed US airlines the right to land at Dublin. Pan American showed little interest in Dublin, while TWA flew the route only up to 1979.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hennessy"}},"name":"Mark Hennessy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Washington put pressure on government in early 1970s to stop forcing passenger planes from US to land at Shannon"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T14:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"US airlines’ demand to be allowed to land at Dublin threatened Aer Lingus and west of Ireland, Lynch told Nixon","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ","auth":{"1":"45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"History"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/us-demands-for-its-airlines-to-land-at-dublin-threatened-aer-lingus-and-west-of-ireland-lynch-told-nixon/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"NDNS37SCYBDLJOHESDOEGVMVNU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":268,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/71e579dd-19bf-42c2-a421-ba2f48154ea3/versions/1743331853/media/4a1829025e6c962a680d2750cab68e63_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/dup-to-put-marker-down-at-executive-against-irish-language-signs-at-belfasts-grand-central-station/","content_elements":[{"_id":"S5F32F4DRZEXLFK4D4YT7XSGNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532149},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/democratic-party/\" target=\"_blank\">DUP</a> Ministers intend to “put a marker down” in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/stormont-assembly/\" target=\"_blank\">Executive</a> in opposition to a decision to install Irish language signs at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/belfast/\" target=\"_blank\">Belfast’s</a> Grand Central Station, party leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/gavin-robinson/\" target=\"_blank\">Gavin Robinson</a> has warned.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BBK2M7HIO5EOHJPGOWXJTBD53I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532150},"content":"Mr Robinson questioned whether the estimated £145,000 (€172,453) cost of the signage represented good use of public money.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X5FYLGMIKBH5VPA2CYSKBBS4ZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532151},"content":"The DUP leader said the party’s Ministers in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/stormont-assembly/\" target=\"_blank\">Stormont Executive</a> have written to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins questioning how last week’s decision was made.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V6H3JVORIFFGTG2W45PNTL7CUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532152},"content":"The move comes as the Department for Infrastructure confirmed that the decision to install the signage was taken directly by Ms Kimmins, and not by Translink, the publicly funded transport operator that owns the £340 million station.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GJUVUDMCYJFVXJEYP7MN2OW2QI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532153},"content":"Under Stormont rules, ministerial decisions that are deemed significant or controversial should be considered collectively by the powersharing Coalition, rather than by just an individual minister.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6YTX46KFRCIVN6UCVG6SL5WYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532154},"content":"In a weekend email to party supporters, Mr Robinson said the installation of the signage was “clearly a controversial matter”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T5BFDAYZRFDKZFQS3R373VVNGA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532155},"content":"However, within the Executive it is ultimately the responsibility of Sinn Féin First Minister <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michelle-oneill/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle O’Neill</a> and DUP Deputy First Minister <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/emma-little-pengelly/\" target=\"_blank\">Emma Little-Pengelly</a> to jointly decide what issues are significant or controversial and should be subject to a wider vote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WO2MC6NK5RF6LHUAXHE2MXJPIQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532156},"content":"Ms Kimmins’ announcement on the signage has drawn criticism from several unionists.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UYP3X3QWWVF7BAY2NMPUGCOV2I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532157},"content":"TUV MLA Timothy Gaston is seeking support from other Assembly members for a petition calling for a cross-community vote at the Executive on the decision.","type":"text"},{"_id":"44L4MXOPLJEOTFE7H7XBLFB6BY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532158},"content":"Meanwhile, loyalist activist Jamie Bryson from the Unionist Voice Policy Studies (UVPS) group is attempting to secure a judicial review in the High Court in Belfast against the Department for Infrastructure, stating the decision was taken “without Executive approval”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIJBVPC33RA73L7IV3UITL6QEQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532159},"content":"In his email to party supporters, seen by the PA news agency, Mr Robinson did not specify how DUP Ministers would seek to challenge the decision at the Executive.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DHCIUFAONDXTNGDNAOPMYTHEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532160},"content":"“This money could have been used to support struggling businesses in Sandy Row (adjacent to the station), which have been devastated by the station’s impact, or to fix the potholes that plague our roads,” wrote Mr Robinson.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2VRTIVPX65FSPC3R6P3D66FNEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532161},"content":"“Our team on the Executive have written to the DfI Minister expressing their opposition to this decision and questioning the process for this decision being made. Once again, we see Sinn Féin’s approach to equality laid bare, and that their partisan pet projects take priority over the wider public good.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AOA5RNPQ3RBDVAXJ552TD7HVFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532162},"content":"“This is clearly a controversial matter and our Ministers will use their position at the Executive table to not only get to the bottom of how the decision was made but put a marker down that public money cannot be used to further Sinn Féin’s pet projects.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VY3RJTVCOVG6LMJFJ2XGLRNUXM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532163},"content":"“I believe we need to put taxpayers first. Ensuring public services are delivered fairly and with efficiency. That means cutting waste and prioritising essential services.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L4UXOUXIOFHVTHCDG75G7PVQXQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532164},"content":"“In a mandatory Coalition, we rely on other parties to adopt the same approach. Yet this week, Sinn Féin demonstrated it’s focused on narrow politics rather than acting fairly and wisely.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YNGANWBW6NG43OGANVSWKZ3HDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532165},"content":"Grand Central Station has been billed as the largest integrated transport hub on the island of Ireland, with services including trains between Belfast and Dublin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AG4L7IO6Z5FXBLKRJQ2AIDPCNI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532166},"content":"When the station opened last year disappointment was expressed by the Irish language community that the signage did not incorporate Irish.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYSKOWPKHZCYJJ4N4YQHSHUWGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532167},"content":"Speaking during the week, Ms Kimmins said the addition of Irish on signs in the station would be a “hugely positive development”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WCUXC2FYFRAA7KKSM7WFXEE4VY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532168},"content":"Responding to claims that the decision was not subject to sufficient equality assessments, Ms Kimmins insisted an equality screening exercise was conducted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2F57JAV7CFDXHNRG4OSVHLHMRU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532169},"content":"“This is something that reflects the thriving Irish language community in Belfast and right across our island,” she added.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2W7BMC2X7JBQ3DMSW24ADOEW6M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532170},"content":"“I think that is really important that we have taken that step forward.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PFIPWALZRNCF7HC7MLTQZECFPQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532171},"content":"In response to a weekend query on the decision-making process, a Department for Infrastructure spokesperson confirmed that the decision was taken by Ms Kimmins, and not Translink. – PA","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"DUP leader Gavin Robinson says installation of signage is ‘clearly a controversial matter’"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T10:45:44.902Z","headlines":{"basic":"DUP to put ‘marker down’ at Executive against Irish language signs at Belfast’s Grand Central Station","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7SHJX7JM3QHAN4WMTMGLRMOYZM","auth":{"1":"3818dcc20da4a2d0bb6e59de96ae4ac385071297f19adc3eec0993bf809465e7"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7SHJX7JM3QHAN4WMTMGLRMOYZM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/dup-to-put-marker-down-at-executive-against-irish-language-signs-at-belfasts-grand-central-station/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}}],"count":10000,"_id":"92a2eedf30deced2aa3dbce6e850e371bce2ad75af2f583b7cd082ae2f4a6c58"},"expires":1743501082401,"lastModified":1743500782140},"{\"feedOffset\":1,\"feedSize\":10,\"offset\":1,\"query\":\"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\\\/politics*) AND (subtype:\\\"Default\\\" OR \\\"live-story\\\")\",\"size\":10}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"TG5DKXG5YFCHVK6P5NXNGVXFFU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":187,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6da8e79c-a5fb-4666-ad8b-b4f9f8d16bf3/versions/1743500353/media/55680bdb1f63570cd0b3c5abea8c3579_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ireland-the-corporate-tax-model-of-what-us-should-do-says-former-trump-economic-adviser/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"A former senior economic adviser to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\">Donald Trump</a> has said that he admired Ireland’s corporate tax rate and that the US might be wiser in reducing its corporation tax, like Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"D4QK4GTJURCHJP7D2QKLF7TCDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Stephen Moore told RTÉ radio’s Morning Ireland that he would prefer to see the US reduce its corporation tax rather than raise its tariffs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IWZ33R2J75FQ5BFUS6Y4LZFTEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Ireland has the lowest corporate tax rate in virtually the world. We’ve always pointed to Ireland as really the model for what the United States should do. Better than raising our tariffs would be for the United States to bring our corporate rate down to 15 per cent, which would get closer to where Ireland is.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"UIQ77WCREZAM5PALC3QRCUW3DU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Moore added that he was fearful that <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/trump-presidency\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/trump-presidency\">Mr Trump</a>’s tariff plan would cost US jobs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JBAMSXI74RBATJHMGFOMFMCZ5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The US president is due to announce a new raft of tariffs on Wednesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NI5B6VELVFA2HPA2VSDXQMZ54M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“One of the ironies is that we are trying to protect our manufacturing base in the United States and our hard-working Americans who work the blue-collar jobs. But I do worry that the aluminium and steel tariffs and the other tariffs could actually cost US jobs in those industries because they’re going to make these products more expensive. It’s all in a bit of flux, right now.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZTN2ZFPWXNFTLFOHYLXZEMFOJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prof John McHale told the same programme that “the EU would be wise to take a measured approach to the retaliation”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TOS6DT6IBBH3REJFXDXINLQLI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The reason that you would have retaliation is to try to deter the policies of the Trump administration, but I do not think that Trump will be easily deterred and he’ll probably double down if there’s retaliation, so while there’s a lot of political pressure to retaliate, I think a measured approaches is appropriate.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"26QH57EKXREPVI5RKUMPSJ7VCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prof McHale added that the Irish economy was “definitely going to come under significant stress. The success of the Irish economy has very much been based on integration into the US economy, particularly with the presence of US multinationals here”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DKT5T27J5GZLLB2RL47X2YIBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“And the incentive to base here and to route a lot of their revenues and tax payments through the Irish economy, that is definitely going to come under stress”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJNBCJW3XZCD5JLBZQCF5ADSSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Separately, Tánaiste Simon Harris has confirmed threatened tariffs by the US and reciprocal tariffs by the EU could result in a “significant reduction of around half in the amount of pharmaceuticals we are exporting” to the US over a five-year period.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E47YVKMQHBHKLJGSBYHJ5OOYRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Harris qualified this by saying that “all of this is quite volatile and subject to change”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G2UDOMWTAVAJPICNKGKWDUH2XQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking on his way into Cabinet, Mr Harris said Ireland does not want to be “in that space”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7DOBKSZTJFN3MVXOFD5ELJTQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We don’t want to be in a space where we are seeing 20 per cent tariffs from the EU – we don’t want to be in a space where we see tariffs from the US, we want to be in a space where as a European Union ... we can sit down with the United States of America,” Mr Harris said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CL57URYCPZEPVNDEVNM5JHV5MY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Our economies are interdependent, it’s a trade relationship worth €1.6 trillion between the EU and the US every year. No president of any political persuasion can ignore that reality,” he said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Vivienne Clarke"}},"name":"Vivienne Clarke"}]},"description":{"basic":"US should reduce its corporation tax to 15 per cent to bring it closer to Ireland’s, contends Stephen Moore"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T09:29:45.543Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland ‘the corporate tax model’ of what US should do, says former Trump economic adviser","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ","auth":{"1":"b6b2342e55c1ff4b094304e94fac15a0b48e752d0b343f302c5d9641c47a0d6a"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DUWCCJ4GTOIGV6AHYKW3I5EFAQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ireland-the-corporate-tax-model-of-what-us-should-do-says-former-trump-economic-adviser/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"EDOGOZDTINFCDDJ75CXH6SCRLE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":259,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/21930cf9-b454-418d-a37b-b195dec545ee/versions/1743452769/media/bad34740c841bc32d1d83cbe914e1394_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/majority-of-homeowners-to-see-property-tax-increases-of-between-5-and-25/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UKTBC6HRGZDQJEPC2JM4MM2X2A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247172},"content":"The majority of homeowners will see <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/local-property-tax/\" target=\"_blank\">local property tax</a> (LPT) increases of between €5 and €25 following a revaluation of properties due to take place later this year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V7LQAQGJQ5AKPPLUDHE6GUKSOE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247173},"content":"Minister for Finance <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paschal-donohoe/\" target=\"_blank\">Paschal Donohoe</a> is expected to brief the Cabinet today on proposed changes to the LPT charging mechanism that are designed to limit the impact of rising property values on householders’ LPT rates.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQZ7CJ5RSBAAHFV5KQDGM5GGUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247174},"content":"The revaluation of properties for the LPT regime, the first since 2021, is due to happen in November. There was an average 23 per cent increase in property prices nationally between November 2021 and the end of 2024.","type":"text"},{"_id":"52LMTIP75NHTTGBGPSCCC3W57M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247175},"content":"Without any changes to LPT bands or rates, about 70 per cent of properties would move up at least one band, which would result in a significant increase in LPT.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CMZRR4QXQZD3PLSX2S7ONVZVTY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247176},"content":"However, under the changes being proposed by Mr Donohoe, 97 per cent of properties are predicted to stay within the same band, with 3 per cent predicted to move up one band.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RPCENKEEANAYLJ335XCLRPTQMI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247177},"content":"The Irish Times understands that, as a result of the planned changes, the new annual LPT rate for most homeowners after the revaluation will be between €5 and €25 higher depending on their property’s value.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UDA76BTHXBDDLAKBORJFI3O7YU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247178},"content":"Separately, Mr Donohoe is expected to seek Government approval for a six-month extension of the lower 9 per cent <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/vat/\" target=\"_blank\">VAT</a> rate on gas and electricity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BFOPJ2YTLZCU3CJNHHJ3V7W44A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247179},"content":"The VAT rate had been due to return to 13.5 per cent on May 1st but Mr Donohoe is proposing to bring a financial resolution to the Dáil on Wednesday to extend the 9 per cent rate to October 31st.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5DPSVTJ2LVCQBJZW3CZG2NCDOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247180},"content":"Meanwhile, Minister for Justice <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\">Jim O’Callaghan</a> is to seek Cabinet approval for new regulations related to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-garda-siochana/\" target=\"_blank\">Garda</a> conduct, performance and appointments.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MT632CETSVBWLEBXTBADZLIBIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247181},"content":"This secondary legislation is needed to support the commencement of the major Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024 from Wednesday onwards.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TOPOMJPXYZC4POAXOUZJ2RDZZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247182},"content":"The Act brings into effect a number of recommendations made by the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/commission-on-the-future-of-policing/\" target=\"_blank\">Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SHST3OR5P5BNPCMZJK26QKC5UE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247183},"content":"When the Act is commenced tomorrow, the new Policing and Community Safety Authority will replace the existing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/policing-authority/\" target=\"_blank\">Policing Authority</a> and Garda Síochána Inspectorate. The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/garda-siochana-ombudsman-commission/\" target=\"_blank\">Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission</a> (Gsoc) will be restructured to become Fiosrú – the Office of the Police Ombudsman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ZG3BTSCFFACTKQD5ELBQGEEI4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247184},"content":"Among the new regulations is one that means Garda members can request an appeal against a final determination of gross misconduct, with an appeal being heard by a retired judge who would be an “impartial adjudicator” of the evidence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVLWYE5CKVA7BACCRPFEQ7P3DA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247185},"content":"Minister for Housing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/james-browne/\" target=\"_blank\">James Browne</a> will tell Cabinet there has been an increase in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/housing-crisis/\" target=\"_blank\">housing</a> commencements since the introduction of the development contribution waiver and Uisce Éireann connection charge rebate in April 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DIDZ45NVKNAXZFNAKY6IX3B6HA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247186},"content":"Data shows 69,060 homes were commenced in 2024 compared with 26,957 in 2022, representing an increase of 156 per cent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QZDGATDIJFFCPITKXRWO4EO7EY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247187},"content":"Developers now have 21 months left to complete these housing developments to qualify for the waivers. Mr Browne is expected to tell Cabinet the schemes will not be extended further.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B3DZINOP5ZHIZKX6PRRY7XP5ZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247188},"content":"Minister for Children <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/norma-foley/\" target=\"_blank\">Norma Foley</a> is to bring a memo on allowing the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/state-claims-agency/\" target=\"_blank\">State Claims Agency</a> (SCA) to handle any potential claims relating to the Office of the Director of Authorised Intervention, Tuam.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AKYQO3QU6VGEJLBO7QUZDSOUUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247189},"content":"The role of the office is to recover, where possible to identify, and re-bury in a respectful and appropriate way, the children who were inappropriately buried at the site of the former <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mother-and-baby-homes/\" target=\"_blank\">mother and baby institution</a> in Tuam, Co Galway. Including the office under the SCA’s remit is said to be “standard practice” for newly established public bodies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HXHUIWBEOFH3VBCK23F7EPJYC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247190},"content":"Meanwhile, Minister for Health <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jennifer-carroll-macneill/\" target=\"_blank\">Jennifer Carroll MacNeill</a> will brief colleagues on a 70 per cent fall in the number of patients on hospital trolleys over the St Patrick’s bank holiday weekend last month compared with St Brigid’s weekend in February.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIDXLI4ETFDZTGRRNQGIL5L2OA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743451247191},"content":"Ministers will be told that an increase in on-site decision-making doctors was a significant factor in the reduction.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"}]},"description":{"basic":"Paschal Donohoe expected to brief colleagues on proposed changes to LPT charging mechanism to limit the impact of rising property values on householders "},"display_date":"2025-04-01T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Majority of Irish homeowners to see property tax increases this year ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM","auth":{"1":"a4412931c950ac1b827c58f3ecf547f5e54fbb72fe672e791e43253916df886e"},"focal_point":{"x":1893,"y":1263},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/T7KDRNJTQJHWRDOCFDLDXWRSXM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/majority-of-homeowners-to-see-property-tax-increases-of-between-5-and-25/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"FP2NSTKARVC4XONVK5QFRVQ3KA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":190,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/564be3f8-7cdb-4f7c-a532-5af645b74fe3/versions/1743451454/media/f83a1659eef1d1a1e8be250aa02d8477_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/","content_elements":[{"_id":"762ZRYM4IZEDFMR7NAUTM75JZ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851068},"content":"Irish pharmaceutical exports to the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states/\" target=\"_blank\">United States</a> are projected to drop by half over the next five years in the event of a trade war between the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union/\" target=\"_blank\">European Union</a> and the US, officials have estimated.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHC7GFRVDVGKZNPJ745A5KO4DM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851069},"content":"As the EU braces for the announcement of a raft of tariffs by the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\">Trump</a> administration on Wednesday, the Cabinet will be told today that Irish exports would drop by 50 per cent by 2030 if the US goes ahead with an expected 20 per cent tariff and the EU retaliates with a similar move.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZVFKHJ4P5CWRELCWNWGAMTFP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851070},"content":"That would likely cost the Irish exchequer several billions of euro in lost revenue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I3UGVASYKRH3TAO7IORPBELBYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851071},"content":"Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\" target=\"_blank\">Simon Harris</a> will brief ministerial colleagues at today’s Cabinet meeting after he held a series of discussions with his European counterparts in recent weeks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDK74TYSMJAXRJ5RDFS4BKCK2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851072},"content":"Officials in several government departments have also been attempting to assess the likely economic implications of expected moves by the Trump administration and retaliation by the EU.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VNI37SKQMJHYHLYTFQD5WXZ75A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851073},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/government/\" target=\"_blank\">Government</a> hopes that following the announcement of tariffs on Wednesday the EU and US can move to a period of negotiation, rather than enter a tit-for-tat trade war.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GSG6KNNYNBDPPFAJ3EJHXWNY6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851074},"content":"But this may depend on the severity of what the US announces. While a general tariff of between 20-25 per cent is expected, there may be additional tariffs announced or signalled for the future on a number of sectors, including pharmaceuticals.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TF5A5WY3CJACRKCHJRUJYG2ALU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851075},"content":"Mr Harris is to attend a summit of EU trade ministers in Luxembourg on Sunday when they are expected to make decisions on how the EU would retaliate to any new US tariffs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UKCNQFMMDNE4PI7IFYA6SW5E2M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851076},"content":"Later today Mr Harris is to hold trade talks with the Italian foreign minister Antonio Tajani.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P4XNBF3F3JDHRI5YD2WT2KMBNI","additional_properties":{"_id":"4VINSV3XLRBF3IWAQCDQNHWSUQ"},"content":"US tariffs: Ireland to bolster competitiveness ahead of looming trade war","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"YPXJTBDAFVBFFHNYIGODR4G4OU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851077},"content":"On Monday Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Micheál Martin</a> said the Irish and European view was that “tariffs are bad for the economy” and “will negatively impact on economic growth across the world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4GENGIJHGRGFZG33HX5URRGXG4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851078},"content":"He said he hoped talks would take place and that “a landing zone suitable to everybody could be arrived at through negotiation and dialogue between the European Union and the US”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IGSBQ4HKMVHEPOG2PSXOMAPLUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851079},"content":"Separately, Minister for Public Expenditure <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-chambers/\" target=\"_blank\">Jack Chambers</a> is to brief Cabinet on the process of updating the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/national-development-plan/\" target=\"_blank\">National Development Plan</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CUEGQ52PGJF73JN5E2WKVYKJVQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851080},"content":"The review of the plan is said by a source to have “taken on greater significance” in the context of threatened US tariffs and their potential impact on the Irish economy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YVWK5ISG4VACXDBLMNQB3SVP4E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851081},"content":"Mr Chambers is expected to tell colleagues that the best way to safeguard against the effects of the tariffs is to focus investment in capital public projects and to tackle infrastructure deficits.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7KLWBQD2MFDXBNUUMR2TU3VCNE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851082},"content":"This is seen as “critical” for boosting economic growth and enhancing Ireland’s competitiveness.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUQYCWQQGJEGBM3Y2AXK5VDQFE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851083},"content":"There is to be a particular focus in the review on supporting housing provision as well as greater investment in energy, water, transport infrastructure and health digitalisation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I43KNPGRRZBRXGI2WS34ZS4QXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851084},"content":"The review of the development plan is due to be completed in July.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YEFQUBE3XJBVBJHLTZXPVNNFAI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743449851085},"content":"Ministers will be asked to identify projects that can be delivered on time and in budget, with a particular focus on achieving value for money.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Cabinet to be briefed on potential impact of US tariffs on the EU"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Irish pharma exports to US projected to halve over five years in event of trade war","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU","auth":{"1":"6011a578a64b55bed44a98029b072976bd26c182dfc3d6fea162951ca2658dc4"},"focal_point":{"x":2643,"y":1849},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SVHOEKLKE36SIQ7KTUYBZUZ7SU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"GGMP4OWTZFGTFI5X4645RMBETA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":415,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/35873a19-2ea3-4125-8ff1-fbd69f7ad1c9/versions/1743433169/media/f75f7d52808f09011de197076e6159a7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HHR5ANINDVHNPPACPIDSIEOS7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309244},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"32XU3NBDVJDJ3L2T3B6VYJ5L5I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309245},"content":"In March 1972, just weeks after Bloody Sunday when 13 unarmed civilians were shot by British Army paratroopers, a young Derry boy named Cormac Quigley wrote to taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\">Jack Lynch</a> expressing his unhappiness that he was not able to go outside to play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VNOEGMVHREAZLBRKPSTCT3B7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309246},"content":"During some of the darkest days of the Troubles, the letter touched Lynch, who told the boy he understood his “feelings of boredom at not being able to play freely in your own city”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GRH63GROGNDX7JKRZRXCATP2GY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309247},"content":"In the reply, drafted on his behalf by an official, Lynch said he “hopes and prays” Northern Ireland’s problems would soon be resolved, adding he “anxiously awaited” British ideas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UO7YLYHQ7JCEXAXKTUUK5HMNXQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309249},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7L5OIXR5VEBNGLTUIVPBS276Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309250},"content":"The letter is one of thousands of documents published in the latest volume of Documents on Irish Foreign Policy covering the years 1969 to 1973,, launched on Monday night by Minister of State for International Development and the Diaspora Neale Richmond.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZG6G5QTABRFZNIP5X66EFGL3LI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309252},"content":"The files show how, from 1969, Dublin struggled to understand what was happening on the ground in Northern Ireland, responding “awkwardly, caught seemingly unaware by the violence and without a prepared strategy”, the book’s editors write.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTULADS3PRFOTIFUYAOL37CQQM","additional_properties":{},"content":"By July 1969, Northern Ireland had begun to occupy minds in Iveagh House, though a major policy document then being worked on as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/patrick-hillery/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/patrick-hillery/\">Paddy Hillery</a> took over as minister for external affairs was quickly overtaken by events.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FLT46YFBQFAAVED374S7WWESZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309255},"content":"Warnings about the future came daily. In late July 1969, Con Howard, based in the Irish Embassy in London, relayed <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-hume/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-hume/\">John Hume’s</a> fear that “Derry is a powder keg” and that Stormont “had lost control”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZWUOQUFENDTHOP4NRCMFKYRXE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309256},"content":"Offering a prescient alarm, Hume said the August 12th Apprentice Boys march “was going to be particularly dangerous”, since the organisers planned on bringing 73 bands instead of the usual 17.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MM6ALP4IXVFCFPRSKQWC43BVP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309257},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"THZL3X6OUFGARGIIIFAQUDR4FQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309259},"content":"Northern Ireland’s prime minister James Chichester-Clark could not ban the Derry march, he accepted, because “the right wing of the Ulster Unionist Party would tear the organisation apart” if he tried.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFYA3IGOYRFLDKEUEHXAMAJW4A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309260},"content":"Sending in British troops would “be dicey” but it might “be a lesser evil than the use of B Specials”, he said, though it would be extremely important that soldiers were “carefully briefed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBDKGGTQPFAGDKN6VXJM7DC3QE","additional_properties":{"_id":"PG4GXSBEQVFH7EUEJ25ITP5UX4"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ZIGEEIEMXVCI5GQO7U3XKBKZPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309261},"content":"In early August, Hillery, still settling into Iveagh House, warned the British foreign secretary Michael Stewart that preparations for the Apprentice Boys “had been deliberately stepped up”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HIS4ALPOGBA73CVS2H4KZG33YY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309262},"content":"London then, and for several years more, however, refused to accept Dublin’s right to involve itself or to even offer opinions, saying responsibility rested with London and Stormont “and not with your government”, the files show.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SLWJGXSL5BHDHC42HOBSCBFPFA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309263},"content":"Noting Hillery’s concern, Stewart declared: “I must say to you that there is a limit to the extent to which we can discuss with outsiders – even our nearest neighbours - this internal matter.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DYJFG4F5NNGRNIH5NPCBJKH2VM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309264},"content":"Taking a determined line, Hillery warned his counterpart that serious disorder in Derry “might well spill over into his country” and, then, it would have to be raised before the United Nations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4FPBOBCFKZHN3FO3II3ZM6LR4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309265},"content":"Even with the deep apprehension held about the loyalist march, Lynch’s cabinet was still unprepared for what unfolded in Derry, “so much so that several ministers, including Hillery, were on holiday”, the book’s editors write.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IGIMGWX3T5GJRD6B4TSU2BCCCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Partition was a male invention. Gender impacted on how revolutionary events unfolded, and how partition was remembered","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"W5CXIYVTDJCXTL6EKBHTJDKJT4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309266},"content":"The volume carries many of the memos written by Irish official Eamonn Gallagher, who went to Derry without the approval of his superiors in August 1969 to learn what was happening on the ground.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EHG54MJ3HRFYJNORNFOTDAMJF4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309267},"content":"There, he formed a lasting friendship with Hume, even later sharing family holidays. Soon he became a trusted adviser to both Lynch and Hillery, until he fell out of favour with Lynch in 1972 after he boasted of how he dominated the Corkman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MXBSCVHGH5D7NLOE72YQIOVTK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309268},"content":"In March 1971, just weeks after the death of gunner Robert Curtis, the first British soldier to die in the Troubles, and rioting had scarred Belfast and Derry, Gallagher sat down to pen a note to his superiors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YD3IE2TSFBFPXHMPY45LWKXCZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309269},"content":"“In dealing with the North, one must constantly be on guard against both depression and euphoria,” said the Glasgow-born official, who argued for peaceful Irish unity, along with close co-operation with Hume.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E4DCMJSKPRECHE4WFI675GJC7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309270},"content":"Reflecting the fevered atmosphere, Gallagher warned “it is difficult to avoid infection” from contacts because “even the most stable of them swing from one mood to the other.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SQIPCLLAVBBRFNKFWUNHPUHQNA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309271},"content":"“Depending on the controlling mood of the moment everything said and done ... is interpreted more or less inaccurately and what doesn’t fit the momentary state of mind tends to be ignored,” he wrote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HJAKVGN67FDB3HS7G7OTWBDTE4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309272},"content":"Early on, the government realised that it had few links with influential British journalists and politicians and a major lobbying effort was put in hand, quickly paying dividends and becoming jocularly known as “dining for Ireland”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JSXA2QRMHRH7XOUTWYDXBWBY7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309273},"content":"By early February 1972, Gallagher cautioned against an idea of leaving the London lobbying to a Geneva-based public relations firm Markpress that had been hired for some work the year before.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CWUFRTMDUVHG5POG6274ZJ73G4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309274},"content":"The diplomats had been “very effective” with the Sunday Times and others, though the Guardian’s Northern Irish and unionist deputy editor John Cole had “managed to prevent” it from “coming as far with us as its liberal reputation might have suggested”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WBVW573G3REYFGPTAKPIS2DZUI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309275},"content":"Throughout the research, which has led to a volume running to more than 1,000 pages, Dr Kate O’Malley of the Royal Irish Academy had the sense of the fears, even near panic, felt by officials and politicians that everything could fall apart.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSO2VCSKHNHS5MS7G47TMN3RQM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309276},"content":"“There’s something not right about some of the material we looked [at]. There’s a lack of telegrams. There’s a lack of handwritten notes about phone calls or even typed notes about phone calls,” she said, all reflecting the rush of the time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J6TTDPWH3FBVHGX2XZEYG4QOSM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309277},"content":"For some, Bloody Sunday was “the last straw”, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VB2RRLFDF5GV5M6PZCZUAQB6PE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Albert Reynolds tried to justify appointment of controversial attorney-general Whelehan to High Court","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"G3N7J7JJVVCLNOERMAZKYG4I6Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309278},"content":"In one file, an Irish Army intelligence officer present in Derry on the day reported the paratroopers’ undisciplined firing and witnessing the killing of one man who had lain injured for minutes on the road.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SP34OF767JHOJEWSXBFRTGBVEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309279},"content":"“I, then, saw the man’s coat jump twice in the air, saw two puffs of smoke at his back and also heard two shot reports. All of this happened in quick succession,” wrote the officer, whose name is redacted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PJCEYFURLZDXRIABNZEJLV6I34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309280},"content":"Irish embassy official Charles Whelan was warned, a day after the Derry killings by a senior foreign office official Kelvin White, that he would end a meeting if he continued to accuse the British Army of “telling lies”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BLC56SZJRJDRTAOYUZQ6CIKX3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309281},"content":"Insisting that the paratroopers were disciplined troops, White deplored the Irish government’s call for a convention to discuss “a final settlement of the Irish question”, as he called it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3KMGWPX2NBAKNNQXBHBQIID6KA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743082309282},"content":"In the end, the two diplomats sought a way of parting on reasonable terms, with White telling his Irish counterpart: “We have both lost and the only people to have gained are the IRA.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hennessy"}},"name":"Mark Hennessy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Derry boy Cormac Quigley’s note arrived during some of the darkest days of the Troubles"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T14:54:23.301Z","headlines":{"basic":"Boy’s letter about not being able to play outside after Bloody Sunday touched taoiseach, new State records show","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Common Ground","url":"/common-ground/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ","auth":{"1":"45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0"},"focal_point":{"x":462,"y":357},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4","auth":{"1":"3621094a80576cd9edf9549c0d2d7a76011c5f5dcb887e8390b004644bcf2848"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"RVRLQP4GUZEXBJDC34QQT62AJY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":228,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/96934825-1041-4011-8a84-bd0dbdc75bb3/versions/1743363868/media/88949951308254abde9b22d73cedfe25_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/legislation-being-examined-as-way-to-deal-with-dublin-airport-cap-once-and-for-all/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FDDVICAWBFDOJGC5NWMYDLWPEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government is to consider interventions to lift the passenger cap at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\">Dublin Airport</a>, including potentially passing laws allowing the limit to be increased. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6KPZVNO53JA2TBAZJAITD23FPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The cap of 32 million passengers coming through the airport annually is at the centre of a protracted planning saga, with the Government of the view the limit hinders economic growth. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4HEUV57J7ZCT3J3YAH56T2MARA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Coalition sources said the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport-authority/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport-authority/\">DAA</a>, which runs the airport, will be expected to persevere with its planning application – but even if a favourable outcome is reached, they believe it could be between three and five years before a solution is in place.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZVMZSS4AVZDFLOAUFJD27GFSMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We need permanent solutions,” one senior Government source said, adding that the current situation could not be tolerated.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BHORL5AAURAU5KARAA4UQG7OSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Transport <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-o-brien/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-o-brien/\">Darragh O’Brien</a> has now received updated advice from attorney general <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rossa-fanning/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rossa-fanning/\">Rossa Fanning</a> on the matter, which includes the potential to pass legislation effectively carving the decision out from planning laws. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LFMP7QGBZHJPDXB2PKCCJFWHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"One potential precedent is 2022 legislation on temporary energy generation, which disapplied planning laws to designated developments, although it is understood that such an approach is not risk free and would likely face a challenge by those opposed to increasing the passenger cap. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEFSP2KDGZH3HAGRQBLOYKMZ2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Draft options for moving forward are expected to be sent to Mr O’Brien in coming weeks. He will hold meetings with airlines this week, including the lobby group Airlines for America, amid suggestions the row could be politicised with the risk carriers could formally complain to the US government about the cap, which they believe breaches EU-North American air travel treaties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UOR3HNID2VDXJKV2FUMF3U2PIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wednesday could see the start of a US-EU trade war – how would Ireland be affected?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"WNAAIVHHPFBRLHWWFHPWD7HEOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"There is a view within Government that increased headwinds for foreign direct investment and the looming likelihood of an EU-US trade war have added to the case for action. “It’s clear the cap as it currently is in place, even if paused, has the potential to ensure we lose future investment,” a senior source said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"J3D27BIPSBH77DCAKMHPO6WVLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"A group of airlines last week <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/28/airlines-urge-high-court-judge-to-extend-pause-on-dublin-airport-passenger-cap/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/28/airlines-urge-high-court-judge-to-extend-pause-on-dublin-airport-passenger-cap/\">sought an extension</a> to a current pause on the introduction of the cap, but the Government believes such an approach is “not sustainable going forward”. Mr O’Brien is said to have met the attorney general in recent days along with senior officials and is now understood to be “looking at legislative ways forward for dealing with the cap once and for all”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4VAPPLUQNEDTIIJ6EXBWCKH74","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin Airport cap at risk of being dragged into US trade tensions","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"4CNZPOJABNGPBPF73ZTWBBIUSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It comes as the government braces for the announcement of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs/\">tariffs on the EU</a> by the Trump White House, with coalition ministers signalling over the weekend that reforms targeting Irish competitiveness and the domestic economy were needed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HK2KOVQTSRHXZEN44HW56P2TTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement to The Irish Times, Tánaiste <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\">Simon Harris</a> said it was “vital that we accelerate measures to further increase our competitiveness and strengthen our position as a good location in which to invest and create jobs”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NEUSEC2NTRBI3AMHEH6FXUIPDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Harris, who will brief cabinet on Tuesday on the latest tariff developments, will speak to other European countries with large pharmaceutical sectors as the Government intensifies efforts to shield those parts of the Irish economy likely to be exposed to US tariffs as the EU intends to target US producers in their sectors. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EVC7UXSEWNFOVLXPWSKEIGQM7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> spoke to EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday evening, raising Ireland’s “particular focus” on the food, drinks and pharma industries. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SEEMY6BUYVG7LB23BDMFKOS2W4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach says Ireland will protect food, pharma sectors in call with EU Commission","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"6Y2QDFLAGZGBXM4E7HV5K6YDFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Enterprise <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peter-burke/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peter-burke/\">Peter Burke</a> will brief coalition leaders on plans to “sharpen up” on competitiveness, including new legislation on private wires which allow individuals or other energy users to run their own cables to transfer electricity, reform to security clearance for investment through Enterprise Ireland and Environmental Protection Agency licensing reform. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"C72VPMRZ4RE6THIB2MY6LE4I34","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fine Gael sources pointed to Programme for Government commitments to cut red tape for firms as a priority, as is a promised cut in the VAT rate for hospitality. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}]},"description":{"basic":"Potential for EU-US trade war has added to need for action on passenger cap"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Legislation being examined as way to deal with Dublin Airport cap ‘once and for all’","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI","auth":{"1":"a914d584ce8eda8b722af68f673f1d5e887ce3db9650149e6937842787c318e0"},"focal_point":{"x":2157,"y":1523},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/WDHT3RYX3SJASBUT2HBS7FD4VI.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Transport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/legislation-being-examined-as-way-to-deal-with-dublin-airport-cap-once-and-for-all/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"BAL5DASJKZBI5OILQQX53DGGFE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":176,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/33872c09-c030-43c8-a4d4-3cc952d2220c/versions/1743358318/media/3bdb619b79874803014be4e2fac63213_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/those-convicted-of-killing-their-spouse-face-losing-guardianship-rights-under-draft-laws/","content_elements":[{"_id":"N4RGMIC6FJCCXPMM3VSKE7ZTMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Those convicted of killing their spouse face losing guardianship rights over their children, under draft laws to be brought to Cabinet this week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BK5EIQPSPRBR7G3B7UT5IOA44A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Justice <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\">Jim O’Callaghan</a> is to seek Cabinet approval for the publication of the Guardianship of Infants (Amendment) Bill - known as “Valerie’s Law” after Valerie French, a mother of three who was murdered by her husband James Kilroy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KGVBUKHC5VF3JMS6E7ZSMSTWBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms French’s family have campaigned for reforms to guardianship rights in such circumstances since her husband’s conviction, arguing that in practice, those who kill their spouses have a right to know where their children live and to be involved in major decisions about them. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PVOXTWEESRCOZLP2VR5T252UYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The scheme follows a 2023 report, Study on Familicide & Domestic and Family Violence Death Reviews, and an interim report conducted last year relating to the study which included recommendations on guardianship rights for a parent who is in custody, accused of, or serving a sentence for the murder or manslaughter of their child or children’s other parent. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"O3RBROYGHFBPVJH3ZATADZHSZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms French’s family had pointed to a finding in the 2023 report that recommended legislation be amended “to ensure that a parent who is convicted of the murder or manslaughter of the other parent does not retain guardianship of the surviving child or children”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GFTLNL5WUVBXFGFS37GLEXJCD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2024/08/03/my-sister-valerie-french-kilroy-was-our-warrior-princess-change-the-law-to-protect-her-children/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2024/08/03/my-sister-valerie-french-kilroy-was-our-warrior-princess-change-the-law-to-protect-her-children/\">Writing in The Irish Times last year</a>, Ms French’s brother David French argued: “Who would gain and who would lose if it was enacted? In this case, the losers are convicted killers and the winners are traumatised children.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEAQYCLWMVFH7P6ZVKYZVXU6TQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under the legislation, an application will be allowed to be brought before the District Court to remove guardianship rights from such a perpetrator. Mr O’Callaghan has signalled that introducing the legislation is a key priority for him. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SR7F6PNXPFAWHMNTJPIKMV5OZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Life of Valerie French ‘taken in the cruelest, most violent and terrifying way possible’, brother says","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"GYHKLC6UKNF2TLJYL452XJVYJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He will tell Cabinet it is his strong view that issues arising around guardianship of children in a domestic violence or coercive control scenario should not be regarded as a matter of private law to be determined between the families concerned, but should be regarded as a child protection and welfare issue arising in the public law arena. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ETK4RMTGPNDBLMM7QHULEJHRAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The programme for government commits the Coalition to examine such proposals.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OMS3BMKH2BFKVNJ2L7YBIF6CDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under the provisions of the Bill, following the murder or manslaughter of a parent by the other parent of their children, or a serious incapacitation of one parent by the other, an application to the court may be brought removing the perpetrator as guardian with another person being appointed. The parent concerned may also be confirmed as guardian of the child. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6U3ZC4GHWJGKTEOUS5SD4TZWFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The courts will also be able to give directions regarding the custody of the child and rights of access to the child or children. A judge will be able to specify a period under which the removal of guardianship rights is to remain in effect, and impose conditions relating to periodic review by the court or for additional matters as the court considers necessary in the best interests of the child concerned. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}]},"description":{"basic":"Minister for Justice to seek Cabinet approval for Bill known as ‘Valerie’s Law’ this week"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"People convicted of killing their spouse face losing guardianship rights","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI","auth":{"1":"3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff"},"focal_point":{"x":1459,"y":704},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/those-convicted-of-killing-their-spouse-face-losing-guardianship-rights-under-draft-laws/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"OCGL6UPBD5GNPHRPA43M4JARBI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":233,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/480df796-f76c-4a3b-9bf8-237d9edd4e55/versions/1743364356/media/57a5bba1e7121ba0ebdfbab40b205769_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/us-tariffs-ireland-to-bolster-competitiveness-ahead-of-looming-trade-war/","content_elements":[{"_id":"KT2WJTUY4BAWDG37IT4XEWXH2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591088},"content":"Coalition leaders are to discuss moves to bolster <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\" target=\"_blank\">Irish</a> competitiveness amid efforts to shield vulnerable sectors from the fallout of a looming <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states\" target=\"_blank\">US</a>-<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union\" target=\"_blank\">EU</a> trade war.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASSL2L25WNFBHNTVSOMO6CRVZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591091},"content":"With US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\">Donald Trump</a> expected to announce <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs\" target=\"_blank\">tariffs</a> on a swathe of EU exports this Wednesday, Tánaiste <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris\" target=\"_blank\">Simon Harris</a> warned it is “vital” that Ireland “accelerate measures to further increase our competitiveness and strengthen our position as a good location in which to invest and create jobs”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XR43SOUHXBDDXFPITANRDRQYSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591092},"content":"He said Ireland must “control what we can control and influence what we can influence”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UHE2LUFAMRBEJJBLTD7RIQRRVU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591093},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Micheál Martin</a> spoke to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-commission/\" target=\"_blank\">European Commission</a> president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ursula-von-der-leyen/\" target=\"_blank\">Ursula von der Leyen</a> on Sunday, saying he “raised Ireland’s particular focus on the food, drinks and pharma industries”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SFCHHDOWIJAHTA2PL4AGCUXRRU","additional_properties":{"_id":"ZQ346VSFFFBCPDVPQQBR333GTY"},"content":"Eight critical pointers to look out for on Trump’s tariff D-day","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"55FYVHOEQRB2FPFRJYLGEZUN6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591094},"content":"The imposition of tariffs on EU goods is expected to lead to retaliatory action by Brussels which could expose some Irish exporters to significant costs if the US in turn targets their sectors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LADFM5P4UVD4NCKUM6ICGK4LEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591095},"content":"Ireland’s EU Commissioner Michael McGrath said “we are unquestionably at a critical juncture right now”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JYZVVK577VDUPJYDAWWUPMKNFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591096},"content":"“The unknown at this stage is whether the US wants a negotiated settlement or whether it is wedded to the idea of tariffs as a permanent economic measure,” he told The Irish Times.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3TPO2HKMRRBUDJ57CIQETLWHYQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591097},"content":"On Sunday, Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke told RTÉ the Irish economy needs to “sharpen up” on competitiveness issues. Coalition leaders will be briefed by Mr Burke on Monday night on what he described as “quick wins” to improve competitiveness, including legislating for the use of “private wires”, which allow individuals or energy users to run their own cables to transfer electricity. He also flagged reforms to security clearance through Enterprise Ireland and Environmental Protection Agency licensing reform.","type":"text"},{"_id":"74ZPPT5ZKFDM7B4TSUFSKI27YI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591098},"content":"Fine Gael sources also pointed to programme for Government commitments to cut red tape for firms as a priority, as is a promised cut in the VAT rate for hospitality. However, expansive pandemic-style supports for businesses are not on the table as of now.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JKUWQL5AKZFRDG3UL5BLVBLXYI","additional_properties":{"_id":"ETHYQFT26BD73KDGEVY6EQY2KQ"},"content":"US tariffs will curb exports and slow growth, ESRI warns","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ML6VVM7RWFDETD5CZ2W7TTCPZQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591099},"content":"Minister for Trade Mr Harris is expected to ramp up engagement with his European counterparts before the imposition of tariffs, and will brief Cabinet on the latest tariff developments on Tuesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VYSW7FW35ZEUDB6LKHZON2DZBA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591100},"content":"He wrote to EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič in recent days flagging concerns about the spirits and dairy sectors being caught up in a trade war if Brussels goes ahead with planned tariffs on US products in these sectors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWCRTCTO25GMVDYNWXWA4IK6NI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591101},"content":"The Irish Whiskey Association, in a submission on tariffs to the European Commission, warned tariffs on American spirits could lead to their members being targeted and outlining their concern such EU tariffs “would be ineffective and disproportionate”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CDOVXT4HA5AKDODZL33MVQYOPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591102},"content":"In the coming week, Ireland is likely to seek allies in Europe to argue against the EU including pharmaceutical goods on its list of retaliatory tariffs. Mr Harris will have calls with his Dutch, Danish and Swedish counterparts – all three countries have significant pharma industries.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6U24YINKJVAQPBW7PM3CBUWJOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591103},"content":"Following his call with Dr von der Leyen, Mr Martin posted on X that the pair had agreed the EU should be “measured and considered in any response, and focused on our own competitiveness and an ambitious trade agenda”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OX2LYHKLCJAXPBR3X7TLMVQQIM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591104},"content":"Dr von der Leyen outlined her expectations for developments on tariffs this week, Mr Martin said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C5KJ5G6BHFBFVIFTODGVH2BIBI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591105},"content":"Government sources here are cautioning that Brussels’ response should not hurt Europe more than the US.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MBXYBPSTGVFBBLMNEAJGCBF6NU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743362591106},"content":"Officials in the Department of Trade have warned that pharmaceutical tariffs could remain in place for an extended period which would impact on supply chains. If the EU imposed tariffs, Government sources said, it risks driving up the cost base of the sector within the bloc.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}},"name":"Jack Horgan-Jones"}]},"description":{"basic":"US president Donald Trump expected to announce tariffs on a swathe of EU exports in April"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"US tariffs: Ireland to bolster competitiveness ahead of looming trade war","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6VCACUF3RZE6NN5N6UU63EUW5Y","auth":{"1":"ae00a15721573199b2d7b666acab3e50d8bd31c3df368f95b8d29c1d9dc5a92e"},"focal_point":{"x":1190,"y":1015},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6VCACUF3RZE6NN5N6UU63EUW5Y.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/us-tariffs-ireland-to-bolster-competitiveness-ahead-of-looming-trade-war/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"HI3XOCB2XNAOXAJ45OEIU6NGNM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":224,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/118b867b-b6c1-47b0-8255-bab130247b3f/versions/1743263594/media/588d8b804e8757fe99e86c5ba9744ea7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/us-demands-for-its-airlines-to-land-at-dublin-threatened-aer-lingus-and-west-of-ireland-lynch-told-nixon/","content_elements":[{"_id":"J2IJ4PXQMNCN7ETN7CO2PXIZZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736809},"content":"A bitter row between Dublin and Washington over United States demands for landing rights at Dublin Airport in the early 1970s threatened <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/aer-lingus/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/aer-lingus/\">Aer Lingus</a> and the Irish government’s plans to develop the west of Ireland, then taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-lynch/\">Jack Lynch</a> told US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/richard-nixon/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/richard-nixon/\">Richard Nixon</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6ERY6TRKE5EVZBLZKLMBO3XLHQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736810},"content":"Washington had complained from the mid-1960s about the Irish government’s decision to force US airlines to land passengers at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shannon-airport/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shannon-airport/\">Shannon Airport</a>, not Dublin as the airlines wanted as they preferred flying to capital cities.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZWUVEH3GJGYFK7CHOKFZGY7JY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736811},"content":"In a frank letter to Mr Nixon in November 1971, Mr Lynch told the US president he needed to be forthright by stressing the government was “deeply concerned” about the landing rights row.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ROA3N3W7JJHERPFK2Q7IPTB5Z4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736812},"content":"The Irish government allowed the two big US airlines, Pan American and TWA, to land and, just as importantly, to refuel at Shannon, but they were not allowed land at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-airport/\">Dublin Airport</a>. Instead, Dublin-bound passengers were flown onwards by Aer Lingus.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JLAUUJMBGNBSXA7HY6DGWXOCZA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736813},"content":"In late July 1971, the US government said it would revoke Aer Lingus’s landing rights at JFK Airport in New York from August 1972 unless an agreement was reached with the government that dealt with the US complaints.","type":"text"},{"_id":"77DE4OQLONALJI6SLFXMNS6ZS4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736814},"content":"“In our view it is not contestable that the issues at stake are comparably greater for this country than for the United States,” Mr Lynch said, even though he accepted the US authorities believed the existing Irish/US aviation deal was unbalanced.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MQAMIZ6BFBDBNNMVHKT4Q325KU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The facts seem to be quite clear. For the United States, whatever the merits of its case may be, Dublin rights are a peripheral matter. The granting or refusal of such rights is a matter of minuscule importance to the United States economy,” he wrote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OCQBEM7GJFAWFDQAGLP4XWEXDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Documents on Irish Foreign Policy (Vol 14) 1969-73: The North, above all else, required the Department of Foreign Affairs to up its game","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"YZE4R3AW4BEV5JNQCI5LDTX5HU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The letter is included in the latest volume of documents on Irish foreign policy covering the years 1969 to 1973, which will be launched in Dublin on Monday by Tánaiste <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-harris/\">Simon Harris</a> at the Department of Foreign Affairs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4RQLSF7GQFGDHGUYMSRJH2ZR64","additional_properties":{},"content":"In his letter, Mr Lynch said the consequences of ending the Shannon rule were “of much greater importance” to the Irish government and for Aer Lingus, which was successfully operating on the JFK route, than they were for the United States.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U6WL6UZA6FDY5BK7JGHXB22C2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736817},"content":"“The revenue implications for our small national airline are very considerable indeed. They have developed their existing traffic though great expense and effort. Their whole financial position would be imperilled,” he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"J5DJZKBEAVFIZPSXVOBBAU7DDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736818},"content":"The impact on the government’s plans to develop the west of Ireland if Shannon lost services would be even more significant, Mr Lynch warned, stating such plans and the future of Shannon Airport “would be placed at hazard”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V466DE4LH5EG3D7XHTIJM5P2N4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736819},"content":"“Indeed, the underdeveloped state of the west made it one of the main sources of the flow of Irish emigrants to your great country. The Shannon area is now our greatest growth centre outside of Dublin,” Mr Lynch said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYOK2S3AAFCN3FQWVNNFXIDSNM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736820},"content":"The granting of Dublin landing rights for US airlines would have a significant impact “on the morale of all connected with the development of Shannon and the west”, he said, judging by the reaction from workers, politicians and the press.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z2WMSVJX3VBP5PZOL27BHXWXP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736821},"content":"The US threat to end Aer Lingus’ landing rights at JFK “has naturally caused the widest disquiet”, with “a great many people feeling that their jobs and their future are now in greatest jeopardy”, Mr Lynch told Mr Nixon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5QOJKEB7R5BORFTRHR2CKSAOZ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736822},"content":"However, the Lynch letter failed to stem the US demand, with Irish-American relations worsening in spring 1972 to the worst they had been since the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/second-world-war/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/second-world-war/\">second World War</a> when Washington was annoyed with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eamon-de-valera/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eamon-de-valera/\">Éamon de Valera</a>’s neutrality policy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SKNKPCYPJ5FWJNK27BDOLWK5LE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743181736823},"content":"In 1973, Lynch lost power and was replaced by Fine Gael’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liam-cosgrave/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liam-cosgrave/\">Liam Cosgrave</a>, who allowed US airlines the right to land at Dublin. Pan American showed little interest in Dublin, while TWA flew the route only up to 1979.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hennessy"}},"name":"Mark Hennessy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Washington put pressure on government in early 1970s to stop forcing passenger planes from US to land at Shannon"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T14:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"US airlines’ demand to be allowed to land at Dublin threatened Aer Lingus and west of Ireland, Lynch told Nixon","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ","auth":{"1":"45b0b1320857e9b62068748fc76d8f86e54e81d35ae763305470e3ba0eedc1b0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BHUIC6R3YOYMXQ4I6563ETO5PQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"History"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/us-demands-for-its-airlines-to-land-at-dublin-threatened-aer-lingus-and-west-of-ireland-lynch-told-nixon/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"NDNS37SCYBDLJOHESDOEGVMVNU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":268,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/71e579dd-19bf-42c2-a421-ba2f48154ea3/versions/1743331853/media/4a1829025e6c962a680d2750cab68e63_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/dup-to-put-marker-down-at-executive-against-irish-language-signs-at-belfasts-grand-central-station/","content_elements":[{"_id":"S5F32F4DRZEXLFK4D4YT7XSGNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532149},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/democratic-party/\" target=\"_blank\">DUP</a> Ministers intend to “put a marker down” in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/stormont-assembly/\" target=\"_blank\">Executive</a> in opposition to a decision to install Irish language signs at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/belfast/\" target=\"_blank\">Belfast’s</a> Grand Central Station, party leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/gavin-robinson/\" target=\"_blank\">Gavin Robinson</a> has warned.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BBK2M7HIO5EOHJPGOWXJTBD53I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532150},"content":"Mr Robinson questioned whether the estimated £145,000 (€172,453) cost of the signage represented good use of public money.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X5FYLGMIKBH5VPA2CYSKBBS4ZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532151},"content":"The DUP leader said the party’s Ministers in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/stormont-assembly/\" target=\"_blank\">Stormont Executive</a> have written to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins questioning how last week’s decision was made.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V6H3JVORIFFGTG2W45PNTL7CUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532152},"content":"The move comes as the Department for Infrastructure confirmed that the decision to install the signage was taken directly by Ms Kimmins, and not by Translink, the publicly funded transport operator that owns the £340 million station.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GJUVUDMCYJFVXJEYP7MN2OW2QI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532153},"content":"Under Stormont rules, ministerial decisions that are deemed significant or controversial should be considered collectively by the powersharing Coalition, rather than by just an individual minister.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6YTX46KFRCIVN6UCVG6SL5WYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532154},"content":"In a weekend email to party supporters, Mr Robinson said the installation of the signage was “clearly a controversial matter”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T5BFDAYZRFDKZFQS3R373VVNGA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532155},"content":"However, within the Executive it is ultimately the responsibility of Sinn Féin First Minister <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michelle-oneill/\" target=\"_blank\">Michelle O’Neill</a> and DUP Deputy First Minister <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/emma-little-pengelly/\" target=\"_blank\">Emma Little-Pengelly</a> to jointly decide what issues are significant or controversial and should be subject to a wider vote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WO2MC6NK5RF6LHUAXHE2MXJPIQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532156},"content":"Ms Kimmins’ announcement on the signage has drawn criticism from several unionists.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UYP3X3QWWVF7BAY2NMPUGCOV2I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532157},"content":"TUV MLA Timothy Gaston is seeking support from other Assembly members for a petition calling for a cross-community vote at the Executive on the decision.","type":"text"},{"_id":"44L4MXOPLJEOTFE7H7XBLFB6BY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532158},"content":"Meanwhile, loyalist activist Jamie Bryson from the Unionist Voice Policy Studies (UVPS) group is attempting to secure a judicial review in the High Court in Belfast against the Department for Infrastructure, stating the decision was taken “without Executive approval”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIJBVPC33RA73L7IV3UITL6QEQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532159},"content":"In his email to party supporters, seen by the PA news agency, Mr Robinson did not specify how DUP Ministers would seek to challenge the decision at the Executive.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DHCIUFAONDXTNGDNAOPMYTHEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532160},"content":"“This money could have been used to support struggling businesses in Sandy Row (adjacent to the station), which have been devastated by the station’s impact, or to fix the potholes that plague our roads,” wrote Mr Robinson.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2VRTIVPX65FSPC3R6P3D66FNEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532161},"content":"“Our team on the Executive have written to the DfI Minister expressing their opposition to this decision and questioning the process for this decision being made. Once again, we see Sinn Féin’s approach to equality laid bare, and that their partisan pet projects take priority over the wider public good.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AOA5RNPQ3RBDVAXJ552TD7HVFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532162},"content":"“This is clearly a controversial matter and our Ministers will use their position at the Executive table to not only get to the bottom of how the decision was made but put a marker down that public money cannot be used to further Sinn Féin’s pet projects.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VY3RJTVCOVG6LMJFJ2XGLRNUXM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532163},"content":"“I believe we need to put taxpayers first. Ensuring public services are delivered fairly and with efficiency. That means cutting waste and prioritising essential services.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L4UXOUXIOFHVTHCDG75G7PVQXQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532164},"content":"“In a mandatory Coalition, we rely on other parties to adopt the same approach. Yet this week, Sinn Féin demonstrated it’s focused on narrow politics rather than acting fairly and wisely.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YNGANWBW6NG43OGANVSWKZ3HDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532165},"content":"Grand Central Station has been billed as the largest integrated transport hub on the island of Ireland, with services including trains between Belfast and Dublin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AG4L7IO6Z5FXBLKRJQ2AIDPCNI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532166},"content":"When the station opened last year disappointment was expressed by the Irish language community that the signage did not incorporate Irish.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYSKOWPKHZCYJJ4N4YQHSHUWGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532167},"content":"Speaking during the week, Ms Kimmins said the addition of Irish on signs in the station would be a “hugely positive development”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WCUXC2FYFRAA7KKSM7WFXEE4VY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532168},"content":"Responding to claims that the decision was not subject to sufficient equality assessments, Ms Kimmins insisted an equality screening exercise was conducted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2F57JAV7CFDXHNRG4OSVHLHMRU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532169},"content":"“This is something that reflects the thriving Irish language community in Belfast and right across our island,” she added.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2W7BMC2X7JBQ3DMSW24ADOEW6M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532170},"content":"“I think that is really important that we have taken that step forward.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PFIPWALZRNCF7HC7MLTQZECFPQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743329532171},"content":"In response to a weekend query on the decision-making process, a Department for Infrastructure spokesperson confirmed that the decision was taken by Ms Kimmins, and not Translink. – PA","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"DUP leader Gavin Robinson says installation of signage is ‘clearly a controversial matter’"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T10:45:44.902Z","headlines":{"basic":"DUP to put ‘marker down’ at Executive against Irish language signs at Belfast’s Grand Central Station","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7SHJX7JM3QHAN4WMTMGLRMOYZM","auth":{"1":"3818dcc20da4a2d0bb6e59de96ae4ac385071297f19adc3eec0993bf809465e7"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7SHJX7JM3QHAN4WMTMGLRMOYZM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/dup-to-put-marker-down-at-executive-against-irish-language-signs-at-belfasts-grand-central-station/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"J4CYWF22ZNCUBKYZ7PL3P63IGQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":236,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/bce77e16-375c-4dc8-95c8-721b369c2854/versions/1743199992/media/4eab9bfcca296f9ba89bea22b26ca04e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/leo-varadkar-confirms-he-will-feature-in-rte-travel-show-and-rules-out-presidential-bid/","content_elements":[{"_id":"E56ULHZLFVCENBDEOBGLSFQRJA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259030},"content":"Former taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/leo-varadkar/\" target=\"_blank\">Leo Varadkar</a> has revealed he will feature in a travel-related television programme due to air on <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rte/\" target=\"_blank\">RTÉ</a> later this year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T5EQOHKVZJDZTJTHS44BEGTVHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259031},"content":"The former <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael/\" target=\"_blank\">Fine Gael</a> leader also confirmed he <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/03/24/leo-varadkar-takes-job-with-us-based-public-relations-firm/\" target=\"_self\">begins a new advisory role</a> with United States-based public relations firm Penta on April 10th – one year and two days after he <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2024/04/09/varadkar-resigns-as-taoiseach-with-no-regrets-as-harris-loyalists-eye-promotion/\" target=\"_self\">stepped down as taoiseach</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZJWAXPHV4FHEJPCKI4TYYGY2XI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259032},"content":"The former Dublin West TD, who held several ministerial portfolios over 17 years, said he was also excited about starting a new lecturing position at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/harvard-university/\" target=\"_blank\">Harvard University</a> “after Easter”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDLDCOTWHREP7OSZWAYEKJNALA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259033},"content":"Speaking to The Irish Times at a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/road-safety/\" target=\"_blank\">road safety</a> event in Galway on Friday, Mr Varadkar said he had been working on “a few different things” since he departed politics in April 2024.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SOHBFSBRHFHU3DHMVYENBNEKCY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259034},"content":"His predecessor, taoiseach Enda Kenny, fronted a travel series about Irish railways for RTÉ after he left office, and Mr Varadkar joked his TV programme was “a bit like that but not like it at all”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X2QRSP4ONBGD7IMXPJFX4RNNEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259035},"content":"“You will hear about in due course. It’s a travel-related TV programme. It’s only one episode, not multiple. I enjoyed doing it. I enjoyed working with a crew,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SPGJBWVIC5ATZD6QJT4PRCJQKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259036},"content":"Mr Varadkar was photographed working with a film crew in a remote part of South Africa last month.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W3Z5OO3UKZGB5FSE6W3IMTAY2E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259037},"content":"He said RTÉ told him the show would air “in April or September but it’s looking more like September”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DSO6KWJIRVH2DGEYRBYF3SB2VU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259038},"content":"Mr Varadkar also spoke for the first time publicly about his new position at Washington-based PR firm Penta, whose clients include Google, Microsoft, and JP Morgan. The Penta post was “not full-time – it’s a certain number of days per year that I’ll be working”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VGDKEEBL2RGRDBPFAWKGUWTGUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259039},"content":"“It doesn’t start until April 10th because there’s a one-year waiting period after you’ve given up ministerial office before you can do anything for a company involved in public affairs,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HURQU2QGRFF2RHZLAGPHZHEMQQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"7YMEHEIDRVHT7FJMHUNOCAA6QM"},"content":"Leo Varadkar recalls grandfather’s death as he welcomes new law aimed at keeping disqualified drivers off roads","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"I3CUGFLIWFBMLFPNGBKNAAQPU4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259040},"content":"Mr Varadkar said he would dispense “strategic advice” to Penta clients, “on how to manage all the interesting things that are now happening in the world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CETUFRCGNZEGRMC7HEY36J3R7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259041},"content":"“It could be tariffs, it could be geopolitics, legislation or really anything that is happening. Given my experience and background perhaps sometimes I can present an insight into that that might be useful or valuable,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R5CGPEO5DNHGTANGA2VXTYEVTA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259042},"content":"Mr Varadkar follows in the footsteps of former New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern by taking a teaching position at Harvard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GA5YP4IOUVDKRFF4J2MDJCIU5E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259043},"content":"His course begins after Easter, and the former minister for health will teach, “leadership, Irish studies, politics and some things around human rights and equality and access to healthcare”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GSQZU44V3ZBD3IFO63FFY474YI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259044},"content":"Separately, since he left the Dáil he said was engaged to do “fireside chats”, which he said had replaced the after-dinner speaker circuit for former world leaders.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G3326DEONBBYZA2QIJBIMGWD2M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259045},"content":"“I did one for CNBC in India and Bank of America in Dubai. There’s only a few of them a year but it’s interesting,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J4HYTXZOIJBTTLFFCJVR3LSXV4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259046},"content":"Mr Varadkar ruled out running for president in November and declined to say which Fine Gael figure he supported to be the party’s candidate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WRPB4EEQUBG4XIPUQ6UCEI7CQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259047},"content":"Asked about the ongoing row over Dáil speaking rights, Mr Varadkar said he wasn’t following the issue closely.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2T65DFXF6JCSFBZUGZ337H5L4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259048},"content":"“I was at a concert last night and one of my friends asked what I thought of it all and it became very apparent to me that he was more informed about what happened than I was. I probably follow international news a bit more now.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DKCJ2Q7VFGWTCEANRWYRGVMCU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743198259049},"content":"“I think there is always a risk in a small country like Ireland that we forget that we are just a small ship on a big ocean. The focus of our politicians needs to be what’s happening in the world and less on who gets eight minutes of speaking time on a Tuesday or Thursday – but that’s not my fight any more,” Mr Varadkar said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Dara Bradley"}]},"description":{"basic":"Former Fine Gael leader also confirms he begins advisory role with US-based PR firm Penta on April 10th, a year and two days after he stepped down as taoiseach"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:05:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Leo Varadkar confirms he will feature in RTÉ travel show and rules out presidential bid","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JDKB3KPPABDBQEL7CQ2RKVU2FE","auth":{"1":"953e4dca5c4e813c3177f0091fe42bf7dcd7349e824bbab5ba0f3d4d06f25f37"},"focal_point":{"x":1845,"y":1268},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JDKB3KPPABDBQEL7CQ2RKVU2FE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/leo-varadkar-confirms-he-will-feature-in-rte-travel-show-and-rules-out-presidential-bid/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}}],"count":10000,"_id":"3639d58dbd445867f7261e3c534e2bd1fa6bf874b07e7dd896f24c957296619f"},"expires":1743501099130,"lastModified":1743500798905},"{\"feedOffset\":0,\"feedSize\":5,\"offset\":0,\"query\":\"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\\\/politics*) AND (subtype:\\\"Analysis\\\" OR subtype:\\\"Opinion\\\" OR subtype:\\\"editors-note\\\" OR subtype:\\\"Columnist\\\" OR subtype:\\\"poll-template\\\" OR subtype:\\\"feature\\\")\",\"size\":5}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"KGPVJEJNHZDPRBYRBYT3VZHZEQ","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ministers-brace-for-chill-winds-of-trump-tariffs/","content_elements":[{"_id":"LJ4SGIVADVEEDFQIEZNVGNAOEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"There is no doubt that Ireland is beginning to feel the impact of global events on a number of fronts. At the weekend, Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke admitted that the current geopolitical situation, particularly the policies of the Trump administration, would impact the Irish economy, though he hastened to add that it would not be like the shock of 2008. A bit of comfort there, not cold certainly, but not warm either. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FE3P4HAYWFD2FP4RZ4IRTJJ4LY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s reflected in the main stories this morning. Pat Leahy reports that college fees <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2025/04/01/third-level-fees-could-increase-next-year-as-end-to-cost-of-living-supports-mooted/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2025/04/01/third-level-fees-could-increase-next-year-as-end-to-cost-of-living-supports-mooted/\">could creep back up from €2,000 to €3,000 this year</a>, reversing a trend under the previous government for the gradual elimination of fees. Minister for Higher Education James Lawless might consider an effective increase to the fee and using the money saved to promote access to higher education, when budgetary discussions begin later this year. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AAYF2HPZUVBJHIEHLWX2W5OW6E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The reduction in fees was introduced as part of cost-saving measures and it is understood the Department is of the view that €3,000 is the base figure, rather than €2,000. It means fees could be more than €2,000 in the forthcoming academic year for about 70,000 students. That makes up slightly over half – more than 66,000 students get all or some of their fees paid by the State. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LMF4BQ6RGZDXDISOC4QXLUUFWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The main lead this morning, reported by Conor Gallagher, shows there has been a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/04/01/weapons-flights-over-ireland-have-increased-almost-70-per-cent-in-a-decade/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/04/01/weapons-flights-over-ireland-have-increased-almost-70-per-cent-in-a-decade/\">significant increase in the number of aircraft permitted to bring military weapons and ammunitions through Ireland or on Irish registered aircraft</a>, a 14 per cent increase on last year, and a significant two-thirds increase over the past decade. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZN6NWI6N4FGPRFFI55PSBD2B3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The change has been attributed to the war in Ukraine and Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, with most of its weapons, ammunition and materiel being provided by the United States. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XR67GV7XABEBBN6GEEDJJXB3N4","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Wednesday, senators Alice-Mary Higgins, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/lynn-ruane/\" rel=\"\">Lynn Ruane</a>, Frances Black and Eileen Flynn will bring forward a Bill that “seeks to ensure that munitions of war, weapons and dangerous goods are not being transferred to Israel through Ireland, either directly or indirectly”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPRATDJ3UZD5TOLVYLPAPAE2UU","additional_properties":{},"content":"In another significant story, Tánaiste Simon Harris is expected to brief Cabinet colleagues today that exports of Irish pharmaceutical <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/04/01/irish-pharma-exports-to-us-projected-to-halve-over-five-years-in-event-of-trade-war/\">could fall by as much as 50 per cent over the next five years</a> if there is a full-scale trade war between the US and EU. It comes in advance of the so-called Liberation Day tomorrow, when US president <a href=\"\" rel=\"\" title=\"\">Donald Trump</a> unleashes a substantial round of global <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/us-tariffs/\">tariffs</a> that will certainly have an impact on Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CZ4WAMPYBFB4PF4HXL2H4K5YNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cormac McQuinn and Pat Leahy report that the general tariffs being announced by the president will not be the last and there could be further additional tariffs on specific sectors. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKKGMJJORBBZ3JS6O6ZG62JSGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Monday Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" rel=\"\">Micheál Martin</a> said the Irish and European view was that “tariffs are bad for the economy” and “will negatively impact on economic growth across the world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DI526DPN7NFWBNEFO26WKPP5KI","additional_properties":{},"content":"That is, for once from a politician, an understatement. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3JT2KQIKRE6PJ7AIITHU5RYTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"At least the infamous phrase from 2008, ‘soft landing’, has not yet been used. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2TSERHLRWBCVRIQ4JTCQVDMLVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Confidence Motion","type":"header"},{"_id":"3GVLVGTQRJDGNM46426U4YJBNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sitting in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann\">Dáil</a> chamber last week was like being thrown into the middle of a concert by Rammstein, the German heavy metal band, with the reputation of being the loudest in the world. The baying from the Opposition benches was deafening, with Pearse Doherty performing what was possibly the world’s longest ever guitar solo. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4JTBJCNONBBSJDACSNQ5VQMC34","additional_properties":{},"content":"We are not quite expecting the same high-jinks today with the motion of confidence in Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\">Verona Murphy</a>. As we expected the Government yesterday came in with an amendment and essentially changed it from a motion of no confidence to one of confidence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6NHBGDSZWRG2XMN6WD2WM6W7WA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The reason for that is simple. It allows the Government to control the debate, by opening it and closing it. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/\">See this Q&A for more background on the issues. </a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"27IMME5Z4ZBCTISQNRITFBH7Y4","additional_properties":{},"content":"I spoke to TDs yesterday and most were of the view that the cacophony won’t reach the same decibel levels. One said it would be “tense”, another said it would be firm from both sides but not a noisy row. “But then who knows these days?” added this TD with an emoji denoting embarrassment. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ZVPOVBZ4JGPHFLORNJJYTJBRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The debate will focus on two separate themes, as far as we can make out. The first is the way the Ceann Comhairle handled the debate last Tuesday, if she misstepped, and was there a reason behind that? The Opposition are obviously of the view that she sided with the Government, either through crash or design. They, and she, deny that. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FLTLKYIZEVHLJIUXM4V4P3LQIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The second theme will hark back to the circumstances behind her appointment. It was obviously one of the preliminary confidence-boosting measures for the Lowry group of Regional Independents in the early days of government formation negotiations with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AZQPK3VTZJACVGD663MQYXL34Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"What were the other elements of the deal? Cian O’Callaghan of the Social Democrats and Michael Collins of Independent Ireland have both pursued this line since January. Obviously there was some kind of arrangement hammered out with the Lowry group in relation to speaking right. Otherwise the Government would not have gone out on a limb to push it through, or as Ruth Coppinger put it, to die on a ditch for the sake of eight minutes. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MRJ43RQC3VCZJIFTAAIOD4FJZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The vote will be taken today. The Government side will easily win. Its impact won’t be properly assessed for months. It could be one of those early days in Government blips that will be forgotten about in the fullness of time. Or it could be one of those events that sets the tone for the Dáil term. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7UGQBT5VJFHQXCAUS5HCE5CZSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The big irony is that the first non-party participant in Leaders’ Questions today will be that new group of ‘other TDs’. If it’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\">Michael Lowry,</a> expect spontaneous combustion on the Opposition benches. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNJCGBFMXRHWDFNPPBQCTXTMXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Best Reads","type":"header"},{"_id":"4QZM3ZUMGZCAVCL5SYJ3B6HGGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mark Hennessy has a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/31/childs-letter-touched-taoiseach-jack-lynch-new-state-records-show/\">wonderful story from the archives </a>about how Jack Lynch was touched by a letter from a young boy who said he was afraid to play outside after the Bloody Sunday atrocity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LHJ65FXJCRH6FFRNNKC7OSRVYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Extraordinary developments in France <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/2025/03/31/marine-le-pen-found-guilty-in-embezzlement-case/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/2025/03/31/marine-le-pen-found-guilty-in-embezzlement-case/\">where far-right National Rally leader Marine le Pen has been banned</a> from standing for election for five years after being convicted for political embezzlement. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HYU6LPDSEJDU7PX6TUZ77AXM5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fintan O’Toole <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/04/01/fintan-otoole-boys-want-love-trust-and-intimacy-just-as-much-as-girls-do/?\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/04/01/fintan-otoole-boys-want-love-trust-and-intimacy-just-as-much-as-girls-do/?\">reflects on the lessons for boys</a> from the hit series Adolescence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZZNQB2UAJEVZO5C3IM6BCT6YM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former Minister for Climate Eamon Ryan <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/04/01/investment-in-public-transport-is-key-to-success-of-revised-national-planning-framework/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/04/01/investment-in-public-transport-is-key-to-success-of-revised-national-planning-framework/\">says that public transport</a> is key to the new national planning framework. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XMTX5H4UNVBFZE6BOE6Z3Y7IPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Playbook","type":"header"},{"_id":"TPT2MFNC6RFXTPOIHDBTNOJNSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"U5X6JF2GORBXHLVY6O7BNMWWQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Cabinet meets this morning with US tariffs and the national planning framework at the top of the Agenda. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IRQB2Y3SSRAUPDMIA6PYCZ2CQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dáil ","type":"header"},{"_id":"I3TXR5NFYVE27BZ62Y3CHTU47I","additional_properties":{},"content":"14.00: Leaders’ Questions (Sinn Féin, Labour Party, Social Democrats, Independent and Parties Technical Group)","type":"text"},{"_id":"3FY4CNQZ2VFHRICKBTQF7OU5CE","additional_properties":{},"content":"14.34: Order of Business.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LQS5PMJNM5ADLB3GBY4QR6ZGLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"15.04: Protection of Voice and Image Bill 2025 – First Stage","type":"text"},{"_id":"O5JEHXJV3VACNJCNDKBWEIBSGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"15.10: Taoiseach’s Questions. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QVZK2MLOBHYZMB6FWUPMUDGWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"15:50: Motion of Confidence in the Ceann Comhairle plus vote. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UTBV4QF6YNBAJNLFSGO6TWKLXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"18.32: Motions for Revised Estimates for Public Services 2025 [Votes 24, 41 and 46]","type":"text"},{"_id":"QME43YDMPBBLRNQNROMJGDJLOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"19.32: Private Members’ Business (Sinn Féin): Motion re Support Householders, Businesses and Farmers affected by Storm Éowyn in a fair, equitable and timely manner. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5AK4CIHPXVBEJK7HFI2AP2YGG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"21.32: Parliamentary Questions to Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade","type":"text"},{"_id":"AXLLZQSRTBCFXEHEXU5VNTDL2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"23.08: Dáil adjourns","type":"text"},{"_id":"UN6BRT7K4FELFONVTPOAIFHZNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Seanad","type":"header"},{"_id":"WVFDWM7475BRZC35D52VLEAQEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"14.30: Commencement Matters","type":"text"},{"_id":"LMK5VMVX2JAMHFIES3J5U66CUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"16.45: Government Business: <a href=\"https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/bills/bill/2024/64/\" rel=\"\">Merchant Shipping (Investigation of Marine Accidents) Bill 2024</a> – 18.15: <a href=\"https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/bills/bill/2023/97/\" rel=\"\">Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (Amendment) Bill 2023</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5Y2VIGYDP5DMFLUXTPSSAJHVPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"19.45: Seanad adjourns","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y75RTQ2P6BANFKVHRUVNYKIGYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"BH6CDEMPOVHI7JMUUUI2JYD4UI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i>Sign up for </i><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/media/2023/11/07/stay-informed-with-push-alerts-from-the-irish-times-delivered-straight-to-your-phone/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i>Politics push alerts</i></a><i> and have the best news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone</i>","type":"text"},{"_id":"PRRACAOWINGB3ILIO2IVOOBMRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i>Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up for the </i><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/newsletters/inside-politics-newsletter/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/newsletters/inside-politics-newsletter/\"><i>Inside Politics</i></a><i> newsletter to get our politics team’s take direct to your inbox.</i>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWCEU33BIBFD5MOQKYUIBDMLKM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"WZ5GV55IDVGEXLUM4PKTMILQMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"}]},"description":{"basic":"Trade-war could see Irish pharmaceuticals fall by 50 per cent, Cabinet to be told"},"display_date":"2025-04-01T07:04:50.434Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ministers brace for chill winds of Trump tariffs","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Inside Politics Newsletter"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4","auth":{"1":"c3f705f5a02c746ec5fd734f68e6676b3d2d897d10e2f06ce10e86411263b972"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JRBELRACVRIL3MEY3YDJJEX6T4.jpg"}},"subtype":"editors-note","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/04/01/ministers-brace-for-chill-winds-of-trump-tariffs/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"74D23GOVMZDQBFRZIX3LWRDLPE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":359,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/fa25cd3e-08c9-46e5-9624-0d3dffe674c6/versions/1743454577/media/fe6cc8effa3ad3e9d11d41c6b00d7889_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/norths-unionists-can-learn-from-britains-record-on-diversity/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HLHPN4G4PJCHFHN53UZ4DPOHWM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892802},"content":"Often, it appears the best that Northern Ireland unionists can hope for is that things will not get any worse. None of the unionist political parties they support, however grudgingly, offer any sense that they understand today’s challenges, or show how they can be best dealt with inside the United Kingdom.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FM2UIBGJCFAXNKPY6AOPU235A4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892803},"content":"Recent attempts by Prof Peter Shirlow and former DUP adviser Lee Reynolds to put forward a positive case for Northern Ireland staying in the United Kingdom, and using statistics to back up the argument, are welcome.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JDBMIFD32NDRTMFMVSP4Y4FQQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892804},"content":"However, statistics do not amount to a much-needed coherent strategy for change within political unionism, especially if it is concerned just with articulating a positive outlook on what is happening in Northern Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BVT3COABM5DFHMLTKRO2CU7NSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892805},"content":"There has been little emphasis in anything that has been put forward by the Safeguarding the Union group involving Shirlow and Reynolds that deals with the future, or addresses the concerns that shape the attitudes of many across Northern Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7I3OIY4JM5CQTLHST7TRPX4I4I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892806},"content":"A strategy might be, as Tony Blair put it, “something which relegates the short term to its proper place and assists the long-term fulfilment of the overall plan”. Set against that measure, what is the overall plan guiding unionists today?","type":"text"},{"_id":"24TW5MLAWBGXVER3ID7HTBJAUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892807},"content":"Currently, the unionist message is obsessively internalised and lacks any sense of scale or ambition. Positive stories of success from the fields of literature, art, sport or business are useful, but those stories must be wove into a political narrative.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UIUHTSPGVRDZBPQISO6BUPZ5LI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892809},"content":"Traditional unionist thinking is counterproductive precisely because it lacks the persuasive appeal that is necessary to expand political support and to reach new constituencies. And it fails to understand that holding hardline positions turns people away, not brings them near.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W5V4RE6WANBAPJUUR2PPUQSPIQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"3WDDOMCT6RHCZEEROZY6UYZMLY"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"UIUHTSPGVRDZBPQISO6BUPZ5LI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892809},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FYPN7FE7ZVAJVMGXHVCDAKKMTA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892810},"content":"Dry statistics about economic growth, public investment, education and identity shifts have their uses, but such information needs to be used to show how everyone living in Northern Ireland can live in a society where tolerance, movement and possibility are the norms, not the exceptions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q3GIVZSZXVDW7OPH2C4VRIGVQ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892811},"content":"The political theorist Joseph Nye, who has written extensively about the relevance of soft power, argues that the influence of such power rests upon a nation’s “culture, its values and its policies when they are seen as legitimate by others”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZXZWLCQBBVC7BJLJJPB3L2TZGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892812},"content":"The notion of softness is crucial, not a luxury. Rigid and ungenerous positions inhibit soft power. If political unionism is to reach and convince those with different ideas about the future then it must embrace the “fuzziness” that so many people have when they define their own identity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QL357O6LENCVDJXLFZXWWKFBUM","content":"‘This new generation doesn’t like the past’: A night at a unionist meeting","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"HOO5E3R2LVB4VFQFPNEDWLC2JY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892813},"content":"In the real world, people are not just this – or that. Often, they are both, and more, much more. This complexity indicates how identity in relation to place and belonging can be overlapping and even contradictory.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7XDCCGD44BFYNB4MMLHM6L2AGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892814},"content":"Political unionism’s stress on certainty even manages to ignore the porous and interdependent identities that are part of the modern United Kingdom. It cannot, and should not be seen as static or settled, or unable to promote inclusion and diversity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7MSXLGAELBBBRCTRSPFEI7BBBQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892815},"content":"The question of what it means to be British, or Irish, raises questions about the similarities and differences that exist. Efforts to declare one better than the other based on separation merely plays into polarisation that prevents constructive engagement between both.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JCSWXXYBSVEI3LILUDI34GDZUA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892816},"content":"Only recently, we have come to notice that there are nearly 6 million people in Britain who have at least one Irish grandparent, which highlights the ties that bind all of us on these islands in ways that Northern Ireland’s unionist parties prefer to ignore.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LNYI3TK7NRDYHHZV6GWRZNW2DE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892817},"content":"Yet this web of connections and identities could be used by political unionism to better sell the benefits of the union. Britishness is welcoming, diverse and more than one identity. It is adaptive and changing. Yes, there are strains caused by immigration. But, by and large, Britishness remains diffuse and fair to others. Why has this not translated into a similar message within Northern Ireland for the various communities and groups who live there but do not see themselves as unionist?","type":"text"},{"_id":"IRMWW3VIKRFSLKD225QYOVERZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892819},"content":"The recitation of facts and statistics alone will not do this. Stories and values motivate more. Relying on figures alone is short-sighted, at best. Moreover, those who benefit from economic growth will already know this while those living in poverty will feel even more excluded.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7OT43PEQL5HDTDWLJ7DP4U65NM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892820},"content":"Instead, unionists in Northern Ireland must offer a future based on respect, opportunity, possibility and movement. Differences should be encouraged, not shunned. It is important to understand, as Edmund Burke did, that you cannot logic your way in to a better society.","type":"text"},{"_id":"APJBMFF62JEOPGYHKRNYIFMD4Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892821},"content":"Emotion must be harnessed to a common goal that encourages consensus, not divisions. Political unionism in Northern Ireland should start with self-searching questions not just about how it sees itself but how others see it too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HQWVXLDADVDSJIINHPCRDKQPTI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892822},"content":"How does political unionism want to transform Northern Ireland? What sort of relationship does it want with Dublin and the rest of the UK? It must begin to see possibilities, not problems. It must encourage diversity, not sectarianism.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HT6KOU737RB3HB254CQVC6P3S4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892823},"content":"It is surely now time for political unionism to widen its horizons and to show more imagination to cope with the Northern Ireland of today, not just the flawed one of the past or, worse, the Northern Ireland they imagine, but one that never was.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VOMAD3VPBNHZVLAH23US547J3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743448892824},"content":"<i>Graham Spencer is Emeritus Professor in Social and Political Conflict at the University of Portsmouth</i>","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Graham Spencer"}]},"description":{"basic":"Using statistics to defend the union will have little persuasive power"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T20:51:09.414Z","headlines":{"basic":"North’s unionists can learn from Britain’s record on diversity","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Common Ground Voices"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU","auth":{"1":"6a5d8cf2cf5f92af64b07ea7a46193c76b2d3a04f30b0da575eff66df70c4b4d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5YKIRHDHIZBLHGBVRVHULRBZHU.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4","auth":{"1":"3621094a80576cd9edf9549c0d2d7a76011c5f5dcb887e8390b004644bcf2848"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DKIH44HW7VAH3JYCUZFCY2EZM4.png"}},"subtype":"opinion","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Ireland"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/norths-unionists-can-learn-from-britains-record-on-diversity/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"SGK6DSX6XBE6XANEYBYGDPDIPQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":192,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/d1ee7b26-8719-44c3-95c1-9b05e8c323e3/versions/1743443545/media/d73e8d24f5c0366074dc98b2ec1d7dfa_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/","content_elements":[{"_id":"MNQ7SO5PD5HFVMSVZCCRRKSK3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"After chaotic scenes in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\">Dáil </a>last week, the Opposition has tabled a motion of no confidence in the Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\">Verona Murphy </a>for Tuesday. Is this unusual? ","type":"header"},{"_id":"ZJXUSNSN5BB55D6HSIEJNMBTUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It certainly is. It is the first time such a motion has been put down and certainly the first time it will be debated. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCOS7LU7FVGGNC5MLKMJZ2OCTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Opposition parties have threatened to submit no confidence motions in the ceann comhairle before. This happened in 2004 when Fianna Fáil TD Rory O’Hanlon was ceann comhairle and again in 2014 when Seán Barrett of Fine Gael was in the chair. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IW2FE7RKFFCH7NRO2ZWE7WTXAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The closest the Dáil got to an actual motion being debated was in 2009 when Labour said it had no confidence in John O’Donoghue, who was caught up in a controversy over lavish spending on official trips abroad, on hotels and limousines. Mr O’Donoghue’s resignation made such a motion moot. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5LDH6LZ3DVAJVMG6RI3TL5SYBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"But it is not a motion of no confidence any more?","type":"header"},{"_id":"LLK7JDDQKFESJA6M2XOT4MYPMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since about midday Monday it is a motion of confidence. Whenever the Opposition tables a motion of no confidence, the Government invariably amends it and changes it into a motion of confidence. The reason for that is it gives the Government parties the right to open the debate and then speak at the end. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RCKVEZ46X5DPTD7AV6POQ2GBGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Cabinet is expected to approve the text of the confidence motion on Tuesday morning.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4VRATA2MVDAFKDIDCEXVY57TU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Why has the Opposition lost confidence in Ms Murphy?","type":"header"},{"_id":"2FQ3ZWW5URA7PM6NKI43X7RLOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Opposition parties claim her handling of events in the Dáil last Tuesday was not impartial or fair. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NFPO24JIMJGXPIEADVEMRWPFQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last week, the Government decided to push through new standing orders (Dáil rules) that proposed giving new speaking slots to a small group of TDs led by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a>. The Opposition began to protest loudly and the Chamber quickly descended into chaos. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DUBZJYECPZDGPKJNMSQF3XF2ME","additional_properties":{},"content":"Amid the deafening din, the Ceann Comhairle decided to proceed with business although it was almost impossible to hear what was being said. In that confusion, the Opposition claims, Ms Murphy did not follow proper procedures and somehow teamed up with the Government. Ms Murphy strenuously denies these allegations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UJUX2V4CFRBADE345JTDTVNDRE","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-3820","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"JSQHDF2FUZEOTOHUZEFDSU2F5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Is there evidence to support the Opposition’s claims?","type":"header"},{"_id":"HYAJK4TYINBSBCWDMRMFKJTK2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy is supported by the clerk of the Dáil, who reported last Wednesday that she followed all procedures correctly. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UNFTGVQGY5FH5JBHDSUHQ37V3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\">Sinn Féin</a> and other parties did a line-by-line analysis of the recording and claim the clerk’s report is “flawed”. Specifically, the Opposition parties say, Ms Murphy should have put the standing order to a vote. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FBVRGLQCJJAUPIMWFF7OY3NC4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"What can we expect from the vote?","type":"header"},{"_id":"SUMPJ3TGXRFEBGWZL5SCFDFVSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The debate is due to begin shortly before 4pm and will last for two hours. It will be unusual in that the chair of the house – who is nominally above party politics – will be defended by one side and criticised by the other. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6GOM4DEM65EYPNCQXI62TGQQKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"She will comfortably survive in the vote, as the Government maintains a majority in the Dáil. More up in the air is how her relationship with the Opposition will pan out into the future. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"72XJQH27FRA2VDJ3PTXUB67VSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"}]},"description":{"basic":"The Cabinet is expected to approve the text of the confidence motion on Tuesday morning"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T17:47:18.906Z","headlines":{"basic":"Q&A: Is the Ceann Comhairle confidence motion unprecedented?","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM","auth":{"1":"c93f76243e43a2b5a6556f573375db7fbd774a0ee170de5d0e9ebe2947fc597c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/QORFW7HS4RHB3K2E52Y4435NHM.png"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/31/qa-is-the-ceann-comhairle-confidence-motion-unprecedented/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"VTY57DJZDJDIJN6372FVSZGUAY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":471,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/049b5c7e-d4bc-432e-9099-8041bbcba9f8/versions/1743249373/media/042a01dc637c4531cc61597b6a3a5288_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/wednesday-could-see-the-start-of-a-us-eu-trade-war-how-would-ireland-be-affected/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175018},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states/\">US</a> president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\">Donald Trump</a> has declared next Wednesday “liberation day” when he will unleash the full onslaught of his latest tariffs, the taxes he plans to impose on imports of goods from other countries.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5LP7VK5PVNDRNGA2J7SVT5W6KU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175019},"content":"During an <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/03/27/donald-trump-threatens-measures-targeting-irish-pharma-sector-as-he-announces-25-tariffs-on-car-imports/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/03/27/donald-trump-threatens-measures-targeting-irish-pharma-sector-as-he-announces-25-tariffs-on-car-imports/\">Oval Office announcement on Thursday</a>, unveiling plans to set tariffs of 25 per cent on car imports, Trump pledged: “We’re going to take back just some of the money that has been taken from us.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFQR3MT2XRGCBPUV4CWCJ65LVQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175020},"content":"Warming to the theme, he continued: “They’ve taken so much out of our country, friend and foe, and frankly friend has been often times much worse than foe.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"J3FFADVIJBDYHHMHC2BFLVQ6AU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175021},"content":"Then he turned his focus, again, to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\">Ireland</a>. He warned there would be tariffs too on pharmaceuticals “to bring our pharmaceutical industry back”, singling out Ireland, home to manufacturing facilities of many US pharmaceutical companies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XUK6UNOSV5CYTL2BJM62K3FALE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175022},"content":"Trump said the US did not make medicines, adding: “It’s in other countries – largely made in China, a lot of it made in Ireland. Ireland was very smart. We love Ireland. But we are going to have that.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"7OHBSRRKW5DGND3ZRWERX4H4R4","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘Ireland has our pharma companies,’ says Trump. But what will he do about it?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"AP363EG7UJCHNIXICOGAV3RTPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175023},"content":"April 2nd is being viewed with dread in Government Buildings and business boardrooms across the State. It could mark the beginning of a full-scale trade war between the European Union and the United States.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEAZOXX5Z5EHBI42QR3SAEGGOY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175025},"content":"“Potentially it’s a date that will go down in Irish economic history – it’s that serious,” said Dan O’Brien, chief economist with the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/institute-of-international-and-european-affairs-iiea/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/institute-of-international-and-european-affairs-iiea/\">Institute of International and European Affairs</a> (IIEA).","type":"text"},{"_id":"HYMZZMRZVFFJ5IQM4Y6BGTHNXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175026},"content":"O’Brien has said April 2nd is “shaping up to be worst day in Irish economic history” since the government’s emergency guarantee to save the banking sector in September 2008 and the international bailout in December 2010.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P2LOIEUUOBB33JUR74T3VR4ASM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175027},"content":"“Immediate effects of tariffs will not be dramatic but longer run impact on Ireland’s economic model could well be more profound than 2008/10,” he <a href=\"https://x.com/danobrien20/status/1905249572894441512?s=46\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://x.com/danobrien20/status/1905249572894441512?s=46\">said in a post on social media network X</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QA3RLOGKZGOXNOM25LPURMSCA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175028},"content":"While acknowledging that “nobody knows what’s coming”, O’Brien told The Irish Times that Wednesday’s tariffs could be historic due to how integrated Ireland is with the United States.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5RXIH2G22NFO3N2YI4UUL32SE4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175029},"content":"“If they go heavily on the EU in general, or if they target Ireland in particular specifically, we’re in an awful lot of trouble,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7CG2BLKIQ5BE5APRWA6EX7G6HQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175030},"content":"He said it could mean the State becoming less prosperous, with more outward migration. The transatlantic relationship, which included “policy certainty” along with “trade and investment openness”, might never going back to how it was – at least in the foreseeable future, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T4GEWHWGNRCDDIFGYCNG5WP6RU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175031},"content":"Trump’s specific targeting of the Irish pharma sector is “deeply concerning, particularly as it is dominated by American companies”, said O’Brien.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BAS7DJDUIRE5LCJ2JGHSTBUFIQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175032},"content":"“If the US government were to use all measures at its disposal – carrots and sticks – to lure these companies home, together Ireland’s biggest manufacturing sector by far, would contract significantly. In a worst-case scenario the economy-wide implications for jobs, tax revenues and exports would be highly negative.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZCEKYRAH6FDVXKLGBJGG2XUO4Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175033},"content":"The Government has not been shy itself in setting out the stark impact on the State of a trade war between the EU and US. Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe has outlined what might happen “if the worst-case scenario was to unfold”: over the medium term – a four-to-five-year period – “it’s very possible that between 50,000 and 80,000 jobs that would have been created or kept within this economy won’t be”, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43NXTUIBNZADBO3KQH63YX2W5I","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"XEVOONWEXBAIBAVDZV7DZIZBWQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175035},"content":"Taoiseach Micheál Martin told the Dáil a trade war would have a “very serious impact on GDP and GNI – in other words, the income of the State. “It could potentially have a serious impact on employment and it’s the most serious challenge facing this Government,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IVNQDNWXZZENFISUD6ACE4VF74","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175037},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"73YCVAXIYRBZ7A6PJCP3TRBLMQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175038},"content":"A study has been carried out by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) on the possible impact of tariffs of varying levels. The think tank calculated that if the US were to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all EU exports and the EU responded with reciprocal tariffs of its own, Irish gross domestic product (GDP) would be 3.7 per cent lower over the next five to seven years compared with a scenario with no tariffs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IHWLC2N665HRTMZPJUXA2LD5WI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175040},"content":"Based on last year’s GDP figures, that equates to €18.4 billion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2PANYYZLLZE6PIYSHIJ6JSMJNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175041},"content":"A source involved in the multinational sector said: “There’s a lot of uncertainty out there” among companies that will be closely watching next week’s announcement. Multinationals are said to be positive about investment in Ireland, with the well-educated, English-speaking workforce seen as attractive, particularly to US companies seeking to access the large EU market.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UK26KSR2NBFIJE3QJ4QTQISNC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175043},"content":"The source said there was no sense of imminent job losses but a trade war could lead to companies changing their future plans for investment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P6D3RZVYCZE33BPAPXQNYE2EJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175044},"content":"What can the Government do to counter the risk posed by this?","type":"text"},{"_id":"KHQ5GQ7VRVFUJO6DICK72RMWYA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175045},"content":"“The key ask [from companies] is, broadly, infrastructure and housing delivery. Control the controllables. That is what Ireland needs to do,” said the multinational sector source.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GSMUG75NXBCZ5J3B7WZ5VNBMFY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175046},"content":"“Controlling the controllables” is a phrase Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke has used as he set out how he plans to accelerate the delivery of the Government’s promised Competitiveness Action Plan as part of the response to the threatened tariffs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BH6TMSSBRBEEPCQQP5BJL33NPU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175047},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"O7RID37NXRGFFNEQXG2XKSLDAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175048},"content":"Burke pushed back against any suggestion that next week’s announcement in the US could mark the beginning of the end for the Republic’s decades-long economic model of attracting foreign direct investment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SPRKX4P34VDBZPDKBZNYDA5F3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175049},"content":"“We have a very agile research, development and innovation landscape here in Ireland”, and a “strong pipeline in seeing our multinationals invest,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SMHOUXUONVFYNN4M37GXR7F5RI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175050},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"OXERNWENMBCTNPGOIRHIYT2POQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175051},"content":"On the threat of tariffs on pharmaceuticals, Burke pointed out that this would make medicines more expensive for US consumers and also lead to a reduction in the amount of revenue the pharma companies put back into the US.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DXKMFX245FG4RLOWLLLFJVMBMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"How crucial are US pharma firms to Ireland? And what happens if Trump entices them home?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ZQ5BIC2GBJFFROK7O7UXNOSGBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175052},"content":"“I think it is a no-win for the US economy,” he told The Irish Times.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JNUJL5NZKBAS7CVDNP5WIZ3W3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175053},"content":"The Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA), which represents inventors of prescription medicines and vaccines including multinationals, said the companies were hoping any tariffs would not last long.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RFNRH2IN3RGQDH5LQWJFSQJMTE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175054},"content":"IPHA chief executive Oliver O’Connor said the industry “has a significant footprint in Ireland, employing 50,000 highly skilled people”, and that it considered their Irish workforce to be “a key asset.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIWD6DUVN5CJRBGFWGPNVC4CIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175055},"content":"He said last year there were €99.9 billion worth of pharmaceutical exports from Ireland, more than half of which went to countries other than the US.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7OLNSWBCJBRTPU7YQ7A25TBEI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175056},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YZX7EWFZVVG2PP72TG7YAUNBDA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175057},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZPDCMQLYBRFPPPUAKRWJHHHVDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175058},"content":"The EU will be taking the lead in responding to any tariffs announced by Trump next week. It is expected to take time to analyse the economic impact of any new tariffs before a decision is made on a response.","type":"text"},{"_id":"II4RJCMHORDGJKYVXEQFDUDK6M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175059},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"LMGTHHTJ2BENBCXWS2FTEVB7WQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175060},"content":"Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Harris later said: “We here in Ireland and in the European Union think tariffs are a bad thing.” They are bad for consumers on both sides of the Atlantic, for economies and for investment, he said","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ULLBWSREJATLC7DDJIDMMGGEI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175062},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FZVJEMZTZZBO3OF6KNGIDZIQ6M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175063},"content":"Mr Harris said it was “highly likely” there will be a “period of economic uncertainty and turbulence” and “it’s essential that that period is kept as short as possible”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2YFLHW2AQZDXJCUCAYITLXSWMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175064},"content":"“What I hope happens after April 2nd is that very quickly the US agrees to get around the table with the European Union ... to work our way forward here because all disagreements need to end in agreement.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LUZXCRGTW5BIRIZFCF5OHKDIII","additional_properties":{"_id":1743159175065},"content":"It is a sentiment not necessarily shared by Donald Trump.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"}]},"description":{"basic":"With Washington expected to unveil tariffs on the EU and Trump setting his sights on Irish pharma, April 2nd is being viewed with dread in boardrooms and Government Buildings"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T05:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Explainer: How would Ireland be affected in a US-EU trade war","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY","auth":{"1":"97fc0bbe80695a07c0e5c2b10de522ca60428ea81f7065696197e8bc1a2d4629"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HKZYSRUUXPP2PPAZP6LVMHGTMY.jpg"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/30/wednesday-could-see-the-start-of-a-us-eu-trade-war-how-would-ireland-be-affected/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}},{"_id":"XBW7NJHAQJEGVC2353GHVDLE7A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":649,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6a67387c-592b-463c-851a-11a4c43221fc/versions/1743194736/media/0118ea7ad7f76f63ca560f9c4bbf0301_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/miriam-lord-with-verona-under-fire-tds-suddenly-realise-they-are-gravely-concerned-about-misogyny-after-all/","content_elements":[{"_id":"NBBNSVMKHFDP3GM56JKHBFB3PM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Misogyny. Misogyny is what was mentioned earlier,” Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\">Verona Murphy</a> bellowed into the Opposition din at the height of those rowdy scenes in the Dáil on Tuesday afternoon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6PUCAXKEBBHIVB3NYNT7KWVCUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Verona wasn’t levelling the charge herself. She was saying this is what she heard from government TDs condemning the Opposition’s treatment of her when the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a> speaking rights hustle was being forced through the Dáil.","type":"text"},{"_id":"72PIZ3VQO5HULFPTON4HVLL2RM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ah, lads. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RTPZM4EKMVAS7CHHCUXJC523XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of course, they have form.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWFKFXGVZ5EPBBA4CNICPYEHDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"They thundered angrily about their meek Taoiseach not even attempting a mention of Nikita Hand while <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\">Donald Trump</a> lauded <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-mcgregor/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-mcgregor/\">Conor McGregor</a> in front of him in the Oval Office. Some of them, it was rumoured, threatened to decamp to the independent benches over the marked lack of women in senior and junior ministerial jobs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2AAYI64Q3ZB57K4CMQYMPLDDOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"And their passionate contributions during the Dáil debate marking International Women’s Day would still be fresh in our memories had the men with such keen noses for misogyny made any.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7QKXKMZB2ZD67EGLEKV3MDRXKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s funny really, the way the thing that suddenly gets them all concerned about the treatment of woman and has them dropping the “m” word with abandon is something that directly concerns themselves and their political parties and the stability of the Government of which they are members. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZCUE7MP2AREA5D2H4CJ4L5SRRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Comments have been made about the unpleasantness of the protests yesterday – I even heard some claims of misogyny, which I found extremely cynical, from one of the most male-dominated governments on the planet. It strikes that the Ceann Comhairle is a woman who knows her own mind,” <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/people-before-profit-solidarity-pbps/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/people-before-profit-solidarity-pbps/\">People Before Profit-Solidarity</a>’s Ruth Coppinger said on Wednesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EV5CME5WJG2FEXUU2TEQLLPWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She’s right. What Verona got this week was an equal opportunities monstering from all members of the Opposition. Previous cinn comhairle – all men – have also been subjected to ballyragged and barracked by angry TDs, but while government deputies roundly condemned what happened to them the Opposition was never accused of sexism against them. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JG3ZHLNAI5B5ZBNLCWQ4FHOGTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ceann comhairle John O’Donoghue had a nightmare on his first working day in the job back in 2007. The then Opposition goaded him into meltdown over, surprise, surprise, the deal struck by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/bertie-ahern/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/bertie-ahern/\">Bertie Ahern</a> and <a href=\"\" rel=\"\" title=\"\">Fianna Fáil</a> with certain independents to get into government after the general election. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4K3Y764QRGMBANTK4GMIYQSNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"And <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/enda-kenny/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/enda-kenny/\">Enda Kenny</a>, then <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fine-gael\">Fine Gael</a> leader, made the politician known as The Bull O’Donoghue blow his top with references to the deal done by then taoiseach Ahern with Jackie Healy-Rae (father of Michael and Danny) in return for him supporting his government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"34MY2RH4WFHOPLZBR2AEEFCRLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"How they laughed and roared and yahooed as the Kerry-based ceann comhairle tried to control opposition TDs, who completely ignored him. “Well, I’m sure you’d want to know what Healy-Rae got yourself,” Enda needled.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5JHZRP6P2NG5PDIUCTRYIOX5RI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The episode has parallels to current events. Along with Healy-Rae, the two other independent politicians in the limelight for cutting deals worth “hundreds of millions of euro” were Finian McGrath (incidentally now seen as mentor of one of the Lowry crew, Barry Heneghan) and … trumpet fanfare … Michael Lowry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TQKWAIKDUVB3RL5BTYHG2RD2VM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The opposition continued roaring as Enda told the chair he had no power in Kerry and “you’ve no power up here”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DH72BW423ZHYZO3L62LT4DQSHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Bull O’Donoghue was apoplectic. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DGHIR6ZZFZBGZIUVQN7SKT62AQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Quiet now. You’re only new in the job,” the leader of the opposition taunted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NJDHA7N2XJFDBI3CABANFSK2NU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The ceann comhairle leapt to his feet. “You won’t say ‘Quiet’ to me, sir!” he snapped, red-faced and raging.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZH4EUTX27RB7DN5J2JCDWUFAPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"And it went gloriously downhill from there. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNZNCXX57NC5JMBVV3OPUIGADA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Disgraceful display of misandry against a defenceless Kerryman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVAJJNKD75CBHEWPSYF2AWX6YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"She’s only a lady standing up in her place of work","type":"header"},{"_id":"JM3XWACOAJBZJF7Y3SM2KJ3D4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"And speaking of Kerrymen and misogyny, such a charge could never be levelled against <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-healy-rae/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-healy-rae/\">Michael Healy-Rae</a>, who was deeply, deeply upset and concerned over the disgraceful and noisy disrespect shown to Verona Murphy on Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MU7JLD3SQRAP5NGV7NEMPAYYJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"And her a laydee.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V537D5K4CFB4LDSLQP3KIYITSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Just remember, who are they shouting and roaring at? At a lady, who was standing up in her place of work …You had a lady in her place of work, standing up. The rules say that when the Ceann Comhairle is standing, everybody else is to sit down but they all literally stood up and they were shouting and roaring at a woman at her place of work. I think it’s wrong” he told Virgin Media’s Kieran Cuddihy on Wednesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EMGWKYXSTZGB3F2GM3GFLQXKJU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael held his hands up: he hasn’t always been the best behaved. When the last ceann comhairle would tell him to resume his seat, he might be a bit “slightly hesitant”, but he would have to sit down. “I would do what I was told.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AYGUVNN6BVCFNPOMKOIKC55EGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Refusing to sit down and causing chaos? “You can’t do that!”","type":"text"},{"_id":"R2JV3DOW4FG7FJU4RSOCPCJMYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"We must have been dreaming about all those times the Healy-Rae brothers caused ructions by roaring and shouting and refusing to sit down. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DN2F7L2IKVBNNOXU44SQ5UXJEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"As for shouting at a lady? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6SFAMTFHBVBS3A5ML6WSSXY3S4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael must have forgotten in November 2020 when the then leas-cheann comhairle Catherine Connolly was in the chair and she was forced to suspend the house because he refused her many requests for him to resume his seat. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UZ3XMESGNJH3PNQAFAV7IM3SNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"And the time his brother Danny refused to sit down in April 2023 when Verona Murphy was standing-in for the ceann comhairle. Danny didn’t just stay on his feet, he sang at her as well.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6XZPKDSZ5ZA2VGRULEPKLGSQWA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A few lines from the song Skibbereen. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPRUPKSRGZCCFIUOWG7DSO3ONI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Verona mentioned her stand-in days when she was elected in December, having been asked to consider running for the job by Michael Lowry. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"66QJAZVVTVCR7IF43DUKU7LMJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Generally, my time in the Chair passed without incident, with the exception of the day a certain Kerry TD decided to serenade me with a poor rendition of a Cork song – figure that. At least his phone was turned off. I believe this experience has prepared me for the position.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CZU7GHTEYBFPDO5LM7K7AOVQ7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"What would Gertie say?","type":"header"},{"_id":"BGEQH32N4BHRPFFZPPNYIZJS6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eoin-hayes/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eoin-hayes/\">Eoin Hayes</a>, the lesser spotted deputy for Dublin Bay South, has a special family connection with the Dáil stretching back 75 years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JOJ2TUC75BBEPIUSWNOOEU7SFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The first-time TD, who was suspended from the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\">Social Democrats</a> parliamentary party after giving incorrect information about shares he held in a software company that supplies the Israeli military, remains in political limbo for the foreseeable future.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5PI7VVH4ENB6XKCFQTBJR5UHWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The urbane business consultant was the toast of the Soc Dems after his stunning win in November’s general election when he ousted Sinn Féin’s Chris Andrews to take the fourth and final seat in the constituency. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HAVI2GJRJBC4HCXH4MB43VLHP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, when it emerged the following month that he didn’t dispose of his shares in Palantir Technologies until after he secured his seat on Dublin City Council last June, he colleagues moved swiftly to distance themselves from their new TD before the first meeting of the 34th Dáil.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IEUAC33N5NFQPEWJB5T5DFE7VM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Eoin sits as an independent on the edge of the chamber beside Kerry’s Danny Healy-Rae – also on his own because his brother and soldier-in-arms, Michael, occupies one of the ministerial seats on the Government benches across the floor.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VLFJ3ZXVNBVXE4Q53MGQPFQY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Deputy Hayes has yet to speak in the Dáil. He says he intends to do so shortly. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"456PCLF7DZDTRJMLF6MWJIJX6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The question is, what would Eoin’s Granny Gertie make of all this? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6WZIJGOV6BCDTCYJUSN75ZFPIQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gertie O’Reilly sounds like a remarkable woman for her time. In the 1940s, she was the first woman newspaper reporter in Mayo and Sligo. She broke into the trade because her father was a reporter with the Western People and she was determined to follow in his footsteps. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GE7A7TLFSBFVNB2O75OG2WWS7I","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"53WEW4BAQFAVHN4GHLE63QAYF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In 1949, she landed a job in Dublin as a general reporter with the Irish Press and in 1950 was admitted to the hallowed ranks of reporters on the Oireachtas Press Gallery, the first woman to get a Dáil press card. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CT6QLUX3EFGEDDQ3IMVZX22WNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"How would she report on her grandson’s travails in Leinster House? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UD3JTVWACNEDDIJ6LO2KN26GBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m not too sure what she would write about that, but I do know that she would have been very proud of me getting elected to Dáil Éireann,” says Eoin, who is clearly very proud of his grandmother. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCCIH36O4BB7ZGFT4KUFO7A2VY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WWWRILCSBFHJJDRN7WPW56EWR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not that Gertie – or Gertrude as she is on her gallery pass – would have much to write about. Eoin has yet to make his maiden speech in the House, but in the meantime he is getting to grips with constituency work.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDWQVJ7ZR5CX3DGFHKV2LKQLRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He is reluctant to speak about his situation with the Social Democrats, where he remains in purgatory. The party recently indicated that there is “no timeline” for a decision on his readmission and he remains suspended indefinitely. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZIOAS3O5BVDP3JK5ON4EQ3IV5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"His grandmother got her press gallery pass 75 years ago this month and met her pharmacist husband later that year. She left her job and moved to rural Sligo where they set up a pharmacy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q6K7IM4Q75CU3FNPXJRLPIRQ2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If you knew her, she was a formidable woman in what was very much a man’s world. I have a lot of fond memories of her,” Eoin says. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KRUJ3CWHDZBK3EROX2UNP6IOBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gertie MacHale (née O’Reilly) was writing her memoirs when she died in 2014 at the age of 94.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OWWURTE2EJBKNJPU7TDODVFK3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"You can’t talk politics here, lads","type":"header"},{"_id":"5KCCNS6HT5A45EZR6CZXQ376TI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Journalists working in Leinster House know it is forbidden to interview TDs or Senators on the premises or do impromptu “doorstep” type interviews. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"C7GPW7ZDT5DW3P4YMM5BKWTFMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"But since the new Dáil returned for business in January, that rule has morphed into a very unsettling and rather worrying situation where reporters are being told they cannot talk politics with Oireachtas members in the public areas of Leinster House. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LPBXYB4XIVH5JBT5C4WSZWO37M","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s quite bizarre.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KZHNP7BTUNEZXOB3FLTNVGELDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"We know of at least three examples in recent weeks when journalists, in normal conversation with a TD, have been approached by members of the security staff and told they are not allowed to discuss political matters with an elected member.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B722QOXXLZCM5HY7HL6B54DNSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"One reporter was sitting on one of the blue banquettes at the bottom of the main staircase, talking to a new TD who had just introduced himself, when an usher approached and asked if they were talking about politics. And if so, to desist.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RIEPKLH2TBDZXJVWWRKYPJL2W4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Not to talk at all?” the astonished reporter asked.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NU2744UA4NCRVIYGDBWKUARLSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“No.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q3W4INCT2RF33P5PG3BKBBSLVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Then there was the journalist chatting to the Tánaiste one night in the same area a couple of weeks later. An usher butted into their conversation and said they couldn’t talk about politics there.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7QQIKUDX35AOJE5HFL2G5PYAGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"They couldn’t talk all right – they couldn’t because their jaws were stuck to the carpet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YY5UWEG6WVEYRCPBJTX2XOPTNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"And again, only this week, we hear of another colleague interrupted by an usher while speaking to a TD in that area, which is at a busy intersection of corridors where people often congregate. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2XLBVUIKRJFZND4AVQ5MHT4NBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"This time, the reporter in question politely said they could talk to whoever they liked about whatever they liked. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCTYM67GVVD2TMZRIFCHZTL3NI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Someone in authority in Leinster House needs a crash course on the meaning of “the corridors of power” and how they work.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Miriam Lord"}},"name":"Miriam Lord"}]},"description":{"basic":"Government deputies develop a nose for the ‘m’ word in the nick of time as Ceann Comhairle is barracked by Opposition"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Miriam Lord: With Verona under fire, TDs suddenly realise they are gravely concerned about misogyny after all","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BQRTHGOKGZEMRBGGLSEX4OSIV4","auth":{"1":"3727d6abbbaf6af6b71b6ecee24f7054c390eab4219465d30232704b0a018b75"},"focal_point":{"x":743,"y":489},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BQRTHGOKGZEMRBGGLSEX4OSIV4.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"LJSNYTBVUNFSDLFHU5HXD7L7ZI","type":"image"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/2025/03/29/miriam-lord-with-verona-under-fire-tds-suddenly-realise-they-are-gravely-concerned-about-misogyny-after-all/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Politics"}}}}],"count":6554,"_id":"798c120ac3964009d50ac4e8d1a36f0a62aa909bdfcc553e6b2f52e947ce9c86"},"expires":1743501099023,"lastModified":1743500798861},"{\"feedOffset\":0,\"feedSize\":5,\"offset\":0,\"query\":\"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\\"/politics/oireachtas\\\") AND (subtype:default)\",\"size\":5}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"2B5IGZOE2VEXVNOBRPN56GMSYY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":245,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/fa8db111-6167-4e13-8256-a1267c6ab9aa/versions/1743089326/media/3dd84dbe7e633b0ffc69540c92ff02e8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/27/hundreds-of-children-had-unnecessary-hip-surgery-at-dublin-hospitals-dail-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"ECN5BF5GL5B2TE2NWCYJYNIH2E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970374},"content":"A draft report into 561 hip surgeries on children since 2021 found 79 per cent of the surgeries at Cappagh hospital and 60 per cent at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/temple-street-hospital/\" target=\"_blank\">Temple Street</a> “did not meet the threshold for surgery”, the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Dáil</a> has heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5LJAW36HMVCL3GOM7Z6BWEHQGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970375},"content":"Sinn Féin’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pearse-doherty/\" target=\"_blank\">Pearse Doherty</a> raised the issue of the audit report, which was carried out after a whistleblower alleged hundreds of hip surgeries on children aged one to seven were carried out unnecessarily.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N5IYTWOHRNDINN6VX2MVBE5QA4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970376},"content":"“According to that audit, 561 children went through these hip surgeries since 2021. The audit shows that 79 per cent of the surgeries at Cappagh and 60 per cent at Temple Street did not meet the threshold for surgeries,” he said. “They were unnecessary.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4XQY572QR5FPJGSSQDVUI7KYEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970377},"content":"The Donegal TD said he had been contacted by a parent whose four-year-old daughter had surgery at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Cappagh. He said they had received a letter a couple of weeks ago from the hospital to inform her of the audit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ECDJMQBJEZBDNEYOMK3CZQDFJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970378},"content":"The woman’s daughter was born prematurely, “facing many challenges in her first weeks of life”. This was followed by treatment for hip dysplasia and resulted in surgery that may not have needed to happen, Mr Doherty said. “She’s sick to her stomach that her daughter might have been operated on unnecessarily,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EZX22EGU5AFDIFKWA7QXD4QL4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970379},"content":"Another family told him “a consultant was telling them that they needed an operation on both hips for their young girl. They thought something was wrong.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"T45FV5BR4FFXDOSDEDPHSTODKM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970380},"content":"He told TDs they sought a private second opinion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FGKHQ5535VFSTES7ZFOETQVS6A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970381},"content":"“They were told not only they did not need the surgery, that the child didn’t even have the condition.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NPOW5D2C3BFVBOS6WBI676Y62Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970382},"content":"The Donegal TD said the issue was reported in the media in July last year. This was occurring less than two years after it came to light that unlicensed springs were implanted into several children at Temple Street Children’s Hospital, “and that scandal is still ongoing”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3XIZSJ5HCFHALHFT35GFJSBN3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970383},"content":"Hiqa to investigate use of unlicensed springs in Temple Street children’s operations","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"DLHX4FXQGJDTVH23S74LU4MIKM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970384},"content":"Mr Doherty added that the draft audit report, completed in January, was now published in full on the Ditch website and claimed “there is not enough urgency in Government that this is what happens over and over and over again”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5HZXLZ262JGZJM7HL4LCD5GTIU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970385},"content":"The whistleblower “further alleged these surgeries were conducted purely for financial gain”, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BTMCDVCENVCJHEUYQNO5LZECCI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970386},"content":"“Has the Government established that the allegations are true? Was some of this motivated by profits? There are hundreds out there that are living a nightmare of worry. Have all of those parents been contacted and crucially, the questions they’re asking is, when will they know if their child was operated on unnecessarily.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIYJ5ZCYWBD73LKNVHFM4GGPKI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970387},"content":"Responding for the Government, Minister for Finance <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paschal-donohoe/\" target=\"_blank\">Paschal Donohoe</a> insisted they were taking the matter very seriously and the clinical audit taking place was “in recognition of the seriousness of this matter”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y4ZBXZPU4VGFDACAJIF6KD4TCA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970388},"content":"Many parents were deeply concerned and raising questions about the need for surgery and the impact of it, and “would have had their trust in our health service and our professionals at least being questioned”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNJLD2SAJJAI7KPZDJTTXAND6Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970389},"content":"He understood the report “is now being looked at and clinicians are providing a final input into it. And that final input will be available to the author of the report very, very shortly if it hasn’t already been shared.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PHH5F56LMFBWHBGLZIYSGR3OBI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970390},"content":"It would be shared with the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/department-of-health/\" target=\"_blank\">Department of Health</a> and with hospitals. At that point the first priority “will be to communicate very clearly with all families”, to “share with them in a transparent and open way the conclusions of this report acknowledging, of course, that the stress, the worry that many face at the moment”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VPGPNJPJXRCUZHQZKC3YFWQX54","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970391},"content":"They would respond to the consequences of any operations that took place. A “core theme” would be to understand why this happened in the first place “and what indeed are the consequences of it”, Mr Donohoe said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X3SBQJBTCNHF3A4YCGFIIAZU5E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743089970392},"content":"“It’s all about ensuring that any surgical practice that took place during that period was carried out in a way that is consistent with international standards,” he added.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sinn Féin’s Pearse Doherty raises issue of audit sparked by whistleblower allegations"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T15:23:42.427Z","headlines":{"basic":"Hundreds of children had unnecessary hip surgery at Dublin hospitals, Dáil hears","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY","auth":{"1":"350a3118b3a87c501a58b63e23526bd0dc1f5f53b0f2795c3abb825a2bd828ec"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IPD66NZIDMZAYUXTWYMSV6YPYY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/27/hundreds-of-children-had-unnecessary-hip-surgery-at-dublin-hospitals-dail-hears/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"HCLA5F3FLZAXNLXUMTTKCBL7IA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":261,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6df741a1-918f-4b17-999b-592c690c8f40/versions/1743020565/media/e2474c226d79165cde27b9cc607c31bf_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/ceann-comhairle-verona-murphy-to-face-no-confidence-vote-next-week-as-she-denies-opposition-claims/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FP4MPYMRHJA2RMS6EO3EEYX6OM","additional_properties":{},"content":"A motion of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\">no confidence</a> in Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\">Verona Murphy</a> will be debated in the Dáil next Tuesday after a second day of rancour over the bitter row about speaking rights.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ENWYHG54RNG2ZN2KADJO62SMUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The matter dominated Leaders’ Questions as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\">Sinn Féin</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> claimed the Ceann Comhairle “bulldozed” through the rules to get the Government’s speaking rights plan over the line.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TV7QWUDZFZH37EGQGRU3OULNRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She was the first of the three opposition leaders to call on Ms Murphy to reflect on her position, which she described as “untenable”, telling her “you need to go”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QLUANX4JTNFOLIIYYL7HFWGQLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She spoke ahead of a formal motion of no confidence issue later in the day by five opposition party leaders.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LQXLPYOGU5HKJGLQDASSTAZXOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael Lowry gives masterclass in smug ingratitude amid Dáil chaos over speaking time","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"E4V3RGQW5FDDFN33F4GAAUX4YE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms McDonald’s comments were echoed by Labour leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik\">Ivana Bacik</a> who said “regrettably, in our view the position of the Ceann Comhairle is no longer tenable due to the Government’s insistence on placating the Lowry group”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RBLD2VLS6BHFLF4S6RBBMQ45BE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Acting Social Democrats leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan\">Cian O’Callaghan</a> also called on Ms Murphy to reflect on her position. He said she should represent all parties but that had not happened.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TVMOIZRKMZFJTLAK6I22N6VRFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> insisted however that any motion would be resisted and “met by steel on this side of the House”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LCYEJPDZ75EL7FNUMVWJCOXHNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said Sinn Féin “will not run the House” and they were promoting a “destructive model” of opposition. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NSACMEPKJBA4JG5QTN4A4BHP4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"While Ms Murphy <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\">issued a statement</a> later “categorically” rejecting “unfounded allegations” of partiality and collusion and insisting she intended to remain in her position, she did not comment in the Dáil on the matter.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MKVYALD7JREGDL6RIZBH4KT4OA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government has confirmed it will table a counter motion of confidence in Ms Murphy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YEGV5JD3OVDO7PZTCU7ZPZJIIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Taoiseach also accused the Opposition of employing “undemocratic” tactics in the Dáil.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FN3HCLGZ2ZF43EK52TSJ3Q4NTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement on Wednesday evening he said: “It beggars belief that Sinn Fein in particular, who shouted and roared during Leaders Questions in a clearly organised manner, and who refused point blank to cooperate, are now accusing the Ceann Comhairle of bias and failing to follow procedures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DM432O55V5ACBND7U57XITWH7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Clerk of the Dáil has confirmed proceedings were conducted in accordance with procedures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A7ZT4QXUEJBHHDTCRZLRUC5MXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin later disputed the report by the Clerk of the Dáil, claiming its findings were “deeply flawed”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSXHXRQ6M5AM3FY5WNHPBV4UDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The report by Peter Finnegan was published on Wednesday and concluded that Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy had acted in line with the Dáil’s standing orders when overseeing the business of the Dáil during the raucous and chaotic scenes in the Chamber on Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ET2ZNKDSWJGMTPHGNXMYNPNRBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a response issued last night, Sinn Féin said the report did not tally with events in the Dáil on Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YAUGZ5PFJZAT7F5MZWPVBEHBBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The party claimed that such was the determination of Ms Murphy to push matters through that no vote was taken on the Order of Business even though a vote was clearly called.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MVEFPJWG7ZFMVC3ZDZQ6BB77MA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The party also claimed that the Ceann Comhairle appeared to have “inadvertently moved the Opposition amendment to proposed rule change and not the motion put forward by the Government.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"S2QQN53QGNGRPF4X53QSVHZQUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Separately both the Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil parliamentary parties offered unanimous support to Ms Murphy at meetings on Wednesday night. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JRNUU2YENFD7FGZ3QWQH22HPKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the Fianna Fáíl meeting, some TDS and Senators criticised the “two-finger” gesture by Michael Lowry in the Chamber on Tuesday saying it was completely inappropriate. There was criticism too of what was described as the barracking of the opposition towards Ms Murphy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y6SJI6AOVBFXZBBIHDG6FMBO3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fine Gael deputy leader Helen McEntee told her party meeting that the Opposition had followed an orchestrated plan to shut down a democratically elected majority Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OPKQTLHFIFEWLKL2VNTTODEKTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"McEntee also said any motion of no confidence in the Ceann Comhairle would be countered with a Confidence motion from the Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OUWNA65UKZCNJB3ING3T57DV2U","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YNRHUKGWKBFUXJKWVUI7WTWSZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier in the Dáil, Ms McDonald accused the Taoiseach of taking a “sledgehammer” to the rules, assisted by the Ceann Comhairle. “The person responsible for safeguarding the Dáil’s democratic processes led the charge on behalf of the Government’s agenda.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YFK5DGZ7QZDVNMWOJVREKYVB3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"But Mr Martin said it was Ms McDonald who “tries to import into this Chamber the loud hailer politics of the street” and from “the very get-go” the Opposition “has made the Ceann Comhairle’s life impossible”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2VL3Q7KV2FBSHO2ISCTJZXOWYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Bacik claimed the Government was ramming through a “contrived arrangement” for a “sham opposition”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6BJUHKWZYVBPJMLSUJZNM7MBVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said two fingers had been shown to the public. It was “deeply wrong” and “deeply disrespectful” of Independent TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\">Michael Lowry</a> to<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\"> give the two fingers</a> and the Taoiseach should get him to apologise.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJLK7R5AWRGORKZHBX4DXJRZZ4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WIGIRWI5JVFNFPMLZERCX7X6WY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She also said Ms Murphy should reflect on her position and if not, her party had no option but to take a position of no confidence in her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JT4EYUM5CFBPLCGE6JMENXG5SM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin said anybody who used two fingers in the House to another TD was wrong and that Mr Lowry should apologise. But he said it was also wrong for TDs to be waving cameras in the faces of other deputies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FC56CMWNZJASHIEM5VL5XO44CA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr O’Callaghan repeated calls for the Taoiseach to “come clean” on what deal he had done with Mr Lowry as the Government was “muddying the waters” by attempting to show the Independents as opposition.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7Y6XDYEIVRG3VNFO4SHZXW7QJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"But the Taoiseach rounded on him saying “you trot out a line” laced with “dark stuff” and “innuendo” about a deal “and that is smear stuff”. He insisted “my motivation is stable Government”, but the Opposition’s approach was “feigned outrage”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQ5AL7PQB5DCPARRV5XHBK6XPI","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-4741","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"EPX4LFHXUNBPRH4MKWBX5ATYPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Solidarity TD Ruth Coppinger said comments about misogyny were deeply cynical “coming from one of the most male-dominated” Governments in the world.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UT2IJ6ULSZBXTKPKMMUPYN5XNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"She added that Mr Lowry gave two fingers and then “gaslit the public that he hadn’t actually done it”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"}]},"description":{"basic":"Bitter row over speaking rights dominated Dáil for second day as three opposition leaders called for Ms Murphy’s resignation"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T23:00:13.623Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy to face no-confidence vote next week as she denies Opposition claims","native":"Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy to face no-confidence vote in Dáil next Tuesday"},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ","auth":{"1":"0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/ceann-comhairle-verona-murphy-to-face-no-confidence-vote-next-week-as-she-denies-opposition-claims/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"E4SADC6RCJCNRHG3RRDWA3CURE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":142,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/8b819c03-ad2e-4fc0-9cb4-0cdce7b5a3ba/versions/1742934833/media/827ac9efdd8ee4bfb8161182927b2cc8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/","content_elements":[{"_id":"BL4GUIAGVVFGLOU26DZDWQTQ7E","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030525},"content":"Opposition leaders stopped short last night of tabling a motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" target=\"_blank\">Verona Murphy</a> following her decision to push through a vote on controversial changes to speaking rights amid chaotic scenes in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Dáil</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NWKFHGZ5FDSREY3DGVLARGNKE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030526},"content":"In a show of unity, five Opposition leaders, representing 75 TDs, held a joint media conference on the plinth of Leinster House where they accused the Coalition of giving “two fingers” to democracy by ramming through new speaking slots for Government-supporting Independents, led by Tipperary North TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_blank\">Michael Lowry</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"42H7TCMLFJAYDOCUM2DGL55R6E","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030527},"content":"Much of their focus was on the role played by Ms Murphy in the proceedings, with Opposition leaders accusing her and the Government of working together to push the vote through.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5E2UH6VYD5G3VPKR65HDJSMNC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Analysis: Unruly Dáil scenes inevitable with Coalition and Opposition on collision course","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"EDOJ46HBJRCIXJPVBW6TXTMRRE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030528},"content":"A new group called “Other TDs” – comprised of the Lowry group and Government backbenchers – will be allowed two eight-minute slots a week to ask questions of the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4KDTYGAQYBASTABRQGSPVDRQFE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030529},"content":"“Nobody observing today’s business could have had any confidence in the way in which the Ceann Comhairle conducted herself,” said <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_blank\">Mary Lou McDonald</a>. “She put a wrecking ball through standing orders.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XRA5RBTUQFE5PFNOQFRBLDRU44","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030530},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/labour-party/\" target=\"_blank\">Labour</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_blank\">Ivana Bacik</a> said she was dismayed at Ms Murphy’s actions, while <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\">Cian O’Callaghan</a> of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_blank\">Social Democrats</a> said they were “highly questionable”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"DZDPNIIDYZEXTDYAPBBSJMOUFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"33QEL47CPZDTDISO2ST6LG4SKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030531},"content":"Michael Collins of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/independent-ireland/\" target=\"_blank\">Independent Ireland</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/richard-boyd-barrett/\" target=\"_blank\">Richard Boyd Barrett</a> of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/people-before-profit-alliance/\" target=\"_blank\">People Before Profit</a> honed in on a two-finger gesture made by Mr Lowry in the chamber, saying it typified the contempt shown to the people of Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AHCCNK46FBCGPM4JFIXMAS3PCY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030532},"content":"However, when pressed, the Opposition leaders would not say if they would table a motion against Ms Murphy, saying they needed time to reflect on the matter. Opposition leaders will meet today to discuss their next moves, including a possible motion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3B67LPH7BFFXDB4YXT3AXICBTU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030533},"content":"Further disruptions to Dáil business are likely. One senior figure said that there is “no way” the matter will rest here.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6D2ZMD5GOFEU5EGBICXSAXBC6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030534},"content":"The Dáil was suspended early yesterday amid much shouting, disruption and heckling. Ms Murphy told TDs they were “making an absolute show” of themselves” and said they had “no respect for the chair”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XREERTBW6ZGG3OV3D6NSADD4SA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030535},"content":"In a statement last night, Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Micheál Martin</a> claimed the scenes in the Dáil “marked a new low in the behaviour of the Opposition”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Opposition stops short of tabling motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle following her decision to push through vote on controversial changes"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Opposition leaders stop short of no confidence motion in Verona Murphy","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM","auth":{"1":"e4dddf0c3cf22263d603522020db01ff2753d07e887e2c58adfd22e4d702692e"},"focal_point":{"x":2193,"y":1108},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750","embed_html":"<div class=\"powa\" id=\"powa-acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750\" data-org=\"irishtimes\" data-env=\"prod\" data-uuid=\"acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.562\" data-api=\"prod\"><script src=\"//irishtimes.video-player.arcpublishing.com/prod/powaBoot.js?org=irishtimes\"><\/script></div>","promo_image":{"auth":{"1":"f654db0851d080e50f9878c912e4761aa2486141e2156663398d3eb2b0be3c8f"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-25-2025/t_81cfd88d073e47e7bfc413345d95e5bb_name_lowry.JPG"},"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"f654db0851d080e50f9878c912e4761aa2486141e2156663398d3eb2b0be3c8f"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-25-2025/t_81cfd88d073e47e7bfc413345d95e5bb_name_lowry.JPG"}},"type":"video"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"OC3S27LGBVFW7EUMNPD3G3HIC4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":173,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5bb15b8c-d70b-44fd-8ab3-a2a06479b7e1/versions/1742408920/media/a7fce42d64f505aa882ea8e1ec7ac22d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-rejects-claim-of-stalling-over-oireachtas-committees-to-protect-michael-lowry-group/","content_elements":[{"_id":"KUNKOUVXGNDYRD5AY62BKR57DU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> has rejected Opposition claims that the Government is delaying the formation of Oireachtas committees to protect the Independent group led by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DTEQLYTSGNGY3FDERN4EOQX7Q4","additional_properties":{},"content":"During the ongoing row on Opposition <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/02/27/opposition-to-withdraw-dail-pairing-arrangements-as-speaking-rights-row-deepens/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/02/27/opposition-to-withdraw-dail-pairing-arrangements-as-speaking-rights-row-deepens/\">speaking rights for the Independents</a>, Mr Martin said the Dáil could debate legislation on the issue in plenary session and summarily push it through without going through committee stage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UBUE26P5JVGJTJJ6JGH4HLL7EY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The row erupted over calls by the Lowry group to have the same speaking rights as Opposition parties while supporting the Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJVIPPOJNZB4LLT27GL2JWQHLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> claimed the Dáil is effectively “in cold storage”. Four months after the election, no committees are in place and the Government’s legislative priority is “to get more money for junior Ministers”, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVJTGGR7CZAEXDJLE2EB4XIX2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"She claimed “the Government’s priority is to placate Deputy Michael Lowry and his underlings with the pretence and fiction that they can carry out Opposition functions here in the Dáil”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RM6MGKE2LNGKVGYYGIHCWNGRCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Government’s speaking-rights stroke is hardly an existential threat to democracy","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"HO4UPMJ2OVFRZD6NG73VMZRR74","additional_properties":{},"content":"Labour leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\">Ivana Bacik</a> said the Ceann Comhairle ruled “on the Lowry lads’ status that they are not a technical group in opposition”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LTSYQNQ3AZAE7EQQX3HXO33KKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government, rather than the Opposition, is delaying the formation of the committees, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LVOGSJN6LBBY3HZT5LHBX6ES44","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Opposition is abiding by the Ceann Comhairle’s ruling, but the Government wants to change it, she said, adding that the Opposition has not seen the details of the proposed changes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3E5LIHPFVBC4XJK2DQPZ7Z6LRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Apparently, it will be pushed through to a vote by the Government next week. In the meantime, committees cannot be formed because the Government is looking to change things.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MLWODMGNH5EG3PLPAUMC5OQA5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Independent Barry Heneghan sought to speak, but Leas-Cheann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-mcguinness/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-mcguinness/\">John McGuinness</a> said: “I cannot call Deputy Heneghan. He is not a member of the Opposition so he cannot be called.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OKL2J2O6RND3HFBEOCNN6UL3UU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Aontú leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peadar-toibin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peadar-toibin/\">Peadar Tóibín</a> said the Dáil has only sat for 17 days since the general election 110 days ago. He called for an extra day’s sitting this week and next “so that we can actually get about the work that is necessary in this country”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVIEL3LOWRB4JG677SUASNUGPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘An ugly lack of respect:’ How a row over a small group of Independent TDs has darkened the Dáil’s atmosphere","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"5INAVICRPZCY3KHLRPPYYJ65RI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin insisted the Government is not holding up the establishment of the committees “in any shape or form”. He called on the Opposition to “agree to the formation of committees, and not get in the way of them being formed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RB3KQQHLQNCMPAIAW4DMLK34ZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Government is getting on with it. We will continue to do what we have to do with regard to decisions,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPDQVAYRFVFAZMHXZURPKU34JU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We should be passing legislation. We can do it by plenary session if we have to and we will in terms of legislation that will come forward. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5X53TJ5PNNBNJMFTJVKDBOI6KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We will pass it through the House. If Opposition deputies do not want to form committees and want to be a barrier to the formation of committees, that is their business,” Mr Martin said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sinn Féin leader says Dáil in ‘cold storage’ and that Government’s priority is ‘money for junior Ministers’"},"display_date":"2025-03-19T18:22:45.559Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach rejects claim of stalling over Oireachtas committees to protect Michael Lowry group","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE","auth":{"1":"1d8f124b1bb9f2576d61aef6df6943693ba782bf2aeeb79bda8721e3ac9af9db"},"focal_point":{"x":1729,"y":1597},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-rejects-claim-of-stalling-over-oireachtas-committees-to-protect-michael-lowry-group/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"ZALTQYFDDJBIXLEOH3BBS7U2QI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":245,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/1cbebb0c-aaa9-4a65-bf8e-e8e0410986f9/versions/1742406826/media/55cf762a79043b515e02c0458ca75305_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-sniggered-about-housing-in-oval-office-in-action-of-obsequious-coward-claims-sinn-fein-leader/","content_elements":[{"_id":"QJ6S3CTNOZC3ZIJ2YTFL6DT5ME","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355324},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_blank\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> accused the Taoiseach of “spoofing” and claimed his “sniggering” in the White House about the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/housing-crisis/\" target=\"_blank\">housing crisis</a> was the action of an “obsequious coward”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYJSLYPPVFGB3LP7QYBNL4LQKE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355325},"content":"During sharp exchanges in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Dáil</a>, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Michéal Martin</a> in turn claimed she was “pathetic” and told her to “get off the stage” and that “nobody was sniggering”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KXJDTJBVJJG4DJM6ZTK7UA7D7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355326},"content":"He accused her of ignoring his comments in the Oval Office when he said that “the number-one issue in Ireland is housing. We’ve got to build them. We’ve got to build more houses”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CK4ERHTXZHI3DUTNYH3VZVHGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355327},"content":"Housing dominated questions on Wednesday, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/labour-party/\" target=\"_blank\">Labour</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_blank\">Ivana Bacik</a> accusing the Government of engaging in “propaganda” on housing figures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W5CYHKN3S5ENVGPR6JOZXMRDEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355328},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_blank\">Social Democrats</a> housing spokesman <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\">Cian O’Callaghan</a> accused the Government of “spin, bluster, deflection”. The Coalition has engaged in a “Comical Ali routine” by pretending the previous government’s election claim that 40,000 houses would be built last year was “somehow an honest mistake”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TW5WBQAWVVGGFLZWBUWAJRTR34","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355329},"content":"During Leaders’ Questions, Ms McDonald referred to Mr Martin’s joint press conference with US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\">Donald Trump</a>, who said the housing crisis is a good problem caused by Ireland doing so well.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3CBFXUWYBNGXVPUAQU4GPZAMVE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355330},"content":"“You were sitting in the Oval Office laughing about Ireland’s housing crisis,” Ms McDonald said. “You said: ‘That’s a pretty good answer Mr President’,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"REBC64RCFFHFBFOMZWNW5U63GQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355331},"content":"She asked if this was a “pretty good answer” for people locked out of home ownership or “crucified with rip-off rents”. She asked Mr Martin: “Do you recognise the hurt [caused] by your laughing with the American president about the Irish housing crisis?”","type":"text"},{"_id":"BXWG2YT2NJBEBGEYX2ZVSZLNSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355332},"content":"“Your sniggering interaction hurt a lot of people. Taoiseach, you made light of their suffering. So Government misleads people on housing at home and then laughs at them while rubbing shoulders with the powerful abroad.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LBZ6W3E2RRAOPBGTOAPGQ7MNUM","additional_properties":{"_id":"GVASYUCPQRCP7HJHEBJ52PMQVU"},"content":"Central Bank cuts growth forecasts amid US tariff threat","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"6YUABT73WVGBLKJR3UGJX2RGQ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355333},"content":"Mr Martin retorted that nobody was “sniggering” and that nobody was going to “buy in to your propaganda, your feigned outrage”. He said Ms McDonald did not have “the courage or the guts” to go to Washington.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y3TYCKQ6OBFQ7JBGECAOD6TA7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355334},"content":"He highlighted his comments in the Oval Office that housing was the number-one issue in Ireland but said she “chose to ignore that”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YRIUETRGEFCBVAWQJY5QDFBDLU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355335},"content":"Ms McDonald also challenged him about the Government’s claim 40,000 houses would be built in 2024 when the actual figure ended up being 30,330. She claimed the government “cynically misled the public on the key issue of housing during the general election”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q5GPZKFG4VF2VOW4J6P3ZVT3K4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355336},"content":"Ms McDonald referred to a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/18/officials-cast-doubt-weeks-before-election-that-2024-housing-targets-would-be-hit/\" target=\"_blank\">report issued by the Department of Finance</a> to then minister for finance <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-chambers/\" target=\"_blank\">Jack Chambers</a> days before the election that the 40,000 target would not be met. She said Mr Chambers, currently Minister for Public Expenditure, was “caught out for misleading the public” because he did not disclose the report from his own department.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JVE5OOJSONENDJCXH5B5JU2SEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355337},"content":"She asked if Mr Chambers had shared the report with Government colleagues. Ms McDonald said it would be unbelievable if he had not.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3Y2FWJ5RRHLFMC3LN6VVEOQTU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355338},"content":"Labour’s Ms Bacik said the Government was moving “at a snail’s pace on housing” and claims of achieving 40,000 homes last year were Government propaganda. Ms Bacik said the financing was not in place and the Central Bank on Wednesday said housing numbers would be down over the next three years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GVLVF3AY5BBHXCEHOD66ESYXJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355339},"content":"Ms Bacik said the Government rejected any initiative the Opposition suggested.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BNA57TWJHJDOTJSZP575MKWWUI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355340},"content":"When Mr O’Callaghan asked if the Government was going to meet the 2025 target of 41,000 homes, the Taoiseach said the Opposition would claim Government failure no matter what target was set.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ETR44S3KJARZBA53VGWNEYQWY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355341},"content":"Mr Martin acknowledged there had been a significant reduction in the number of planning permissions, and private investors and developers had to be encouraged. He confirmed a target of 41,000 this year but said this was “going to be very challenging”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Martin says McDonald's 'feigned outrage' ignores his comments about housing being Ireland’s number-one issue"},"display_date":"2025-03-19T17:45:03.779Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach’s ‘sniggering’ in Oval Office was action of ‘obsequious coward’, claims Sinn Féin leader","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"NGFPJAWCXLG6KPGD7QQZNET2DU","auth":{"1":"29b4316649d6852948740e1c585d7e5156e17ebb22f0204f5d33f01cac1ae0f7"},"focal_point":{"x":1059,"y":657},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NGFPJAWCXLG6KPGD7QQZNET2DU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-sniggered-about-housing-in-oval-office-in-action-of-obsequious-coward-claims-sinn-fein-leader/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}}],"count":10000,"_id":"186191c02f207dc03d962e5a246870f79c517f6c24ea999feffc1d44626d4f43"},"expires":1743500998953,"lastModified":1743500698710},"{\"feedOffset\":1,\"feedSize\":5,\"offset\":1,\"query\":\"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\\"/politics/oireachtas\\\") AND (subtype:default)\",\"size\":5}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"HCLA5F3FLZAXNLXUMTTKCBL7IA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":261,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6df741a1-918f-4b17-999b-592c690c8f40/versions/1743020565/media/e2474c226d79165cde27b9cc607c31bf_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/ceann-comhairle-verona-murphy-to-face-no-confidence-vote-next-week-as-she-denies-opposition-claims/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FP4MPYMRHJA2RMS6EO3EEYX6OM","additional_properties":{},"content":"A motion of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\">no confidence</a> in Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy\">Verona Murphy</a> will be debated in the Dáil next Tuesday after a second day of rancour over the bitter row about speaking rights.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ENWYHG54RNG2ZN2KADJO62SMUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The matter dominated Leaders’ Questions as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\">Sinn Féin</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> claimed the Ceann Comhairle “bulldozed” through the rules to get the Government’s speaking rights plan over the line.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TV7QWUDZFZH37EGQGRU3OULNRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She was the first of the three opposition leaders to call on Ms Murphy to reflect on her position, which she described as “untenable”, telling her “you need to go”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QLUANX4JTNFOLIIYYL7HFWGQLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She spoke ahead of a formal motion of no confidence issue later in the day by five opposition party leaders.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LQXLPYOGU5HKJGLQDASSTAZXOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael Lowry gives masterclass in smug ingratitude amid Dáil chaos over speaking time","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"E4V3RGQW5FDDFN33F4GAAUX4YE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms McDonald’s comments were echoed by Labour leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik\">Ivana Bacik</a> who said “regrettably, in our view the position of the Ceann Comhairle is no longer tenable due to the Government’s insistence on placating the Lowry group”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RBLD2VLS6BHFLF4S6RBBMQ45BE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Acting Social Democrats leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan\">Cian O’Callaghan</a> also called on Ms Murphy to reflect on her position. He said she should represent all parties but that had not happened.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TVMOIZRKMZFJTLAK6I22N6VRFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> insisted however that any motion would be resisted and “met by steel on this side of the House”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LCYEJPDZ75EL7FNUMVWJCOXHNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said Sinn Féin “will not run the House” and they were promoting a “destructive model” of opposition. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NSACMEPKJBA4JG5QTN4A4BHP4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"While Ms Murphy <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/dail-live-latest-verona-murphy-no-confidence-michael-lowry/\">issued a statement</a> later “categorically” rejecting “unfounded allegations” of partiality and collusion and insisting she intended to remain in her position, she did not comment in the Dáil on the matter.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MKVYALD7JREGDL6RIZBH4KT4OA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government has confirmed it will table a counter motion of confidence in Ms Murphy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YEGV5JD3OVDO7PZTCU7ZPZJIIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Taoiseach also accused the Opposition of employing “undemocratic” tactics in the Dáil.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FN3HCLGZ2ZF43EK52TSJ3Q4NTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement on Wednesday evening he said: “It beggars belief that Sinn Fein in particular, who shouted and roared during Leaders Questions in a clearly organised manner, and who refused point blank to cooperate, are now accusing the Ceann Comhairle of bias and failing to follow procedures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DM432O55V5ACBND7U57XITWH7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Clerk of the Dáil has confirmed proceedings were conducted in accordance with procedures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A7ZT4QXUEJBHHDTCRZLRUC5MXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin later disputed the report by the Clerk of the Dáil, claiming its findings were “deeply flawed”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSXHXRQ6M5AM3FY5WNHPBV4UDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The report by Peter Finnegan was published on Wednesday and concluded that Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy had acted in line with the Dáil’s standing orders when overseeing the business of the Dáil during the raucous and chaotic scenes in the Chamber on Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ET2ZNKDSWJGMTPHGNXMYNPNRBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a response issued last night, Sinn Féin said the report did not tally with events in the Dáil on Tuesday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YAUGZ5PFJZAT7F5MZWPVBEHBBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The party claimed that such was the determination of Ms Murphy to push matters through that no vote was taken on the Order of Business even though a vote was clearly called.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MVEFPJWG7ZFMVC3ZDZQ6BB77MA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The party also claimed that the Ceann Comhairle appeared to have “inadvertently moved the Opposition amendment to proposed rule change and not the motion put forward by the Government.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"S2QQN53QGNGRPF4X53QSVHZQUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Separately both the Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil parliamentary parties offered unanimous support to Ms Murphy at meetings on Wednesday night. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JRNUU2YENFD7FGZ3QWQH22HPKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the Fianna Fáíl meeting, some TDS and Senators criticised the “two-finger” gesture by Michael Lowry in the Chamber on Tuesday saying it was completely inappropriate. There was criticism too of what was described as the barracking of the opposition towards Ms Murphy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y6SJI6AOVBFXZBBIHDG6FMBO3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fine Gael deputy leader Helen McEntee told her party meeting that the Opposition had followed an orchestrated plan to shut down a democratically elected majority Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OPKQTLHFIFEWLKL2VNTTODEKTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"McEntee also said any motion of no confidence in the Ceann Comhairle would be countered with a Confidence motion from the Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OUWNA65UKZCNJB3ING3T57DV2U","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YNRHUKGWKBFUXJKWVUI7WTWSZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier in the Dáil, Ms McDonald accused the Taoiseach of taking a “sledgehammer” to the rules, assisted by the Ceann Comhairle. “The person responsible for safeguarding the Dáil’s democratic processes led the charge on behalf of the Government’s agenda.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YFK5DGZ7QZDVNMWOJVREKYVB3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"But Mr Martin said it was Ms McDonald who “tries to import into this Chamber the loud hailer politics of the street” and from “the very get-go” the Opposition “has made the Ceann Comhairle’s life impossible”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2VL3Q7KV2FBSHO2ISCTJZXOWYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Bacik claimed the Government was ramming through a “contrived arrangement” for a “sham opposition”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6BJUHKWZYVBPJMLSUJZNM7MBVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said two fingers had been shown to the public. It was “deeply wrong” and “deeply disrespectful” of Independent TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry\">Michael Lowry</a> to<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/25/shame-shame-shame-opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-in-row-over-speaking-rights/\"> give the two fingers</a> and the Taoiseach should get him to apologise.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJLK7R5AWRGORKZHBX4DXJRZZ4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WIGIRWI5JVFNFPMLZERCX7X6WY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She also said Ms Murphy should reflect on her position and if not, her party had no option but to take a position of no confidence in her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JT4EYUM5CFBPLCGE6JMENXG5SM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin said anybody who used two fingers in the House to another TD was wrong and that Mr Lowry should apologise. But he said it was also wrong for TDs to be waving cameras in the faces of other deputies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FC56CMWNZJASHIEM5VL5XO44CA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr O’Callaghan repeated calls for the Taoiseach to “come clean” on what deal he had done with Mr Lowry as the Government was “muddying the waters” by attempting to show the Independents as opposition.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7Y6XDYEIVRG3VNFO4SHZXW7QJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"But the Taoiseach rounded on him saying “you trot out a line” laced with “dark stuff” and “innuendo” about a deal “and that is smear stuff”. He insisted “my motivation is stable Government”, but the Opposition’s approach was “feigned outrage”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQ5AL7PQB5DCPARRV5XHBK6XPI","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-4741","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"EPX4LFHXUNBPRH4MKWBX5ATYPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Solidarity TD Ruth Coppinger said comments about misogyny were deeply cynical “coming from one of the most male-dominated” Governments in the world.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UT2IJ6ULSZBXTKPKMMUPYN5XNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"She added that Mr Lowry gave two fingers and then “gaslit the public that he hadn’t actually done it”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"}]},"description":{"basic":"Bitter row over speaking rights dominated Dáil for second day as three opposition leaders called for Ms Murphy’s resignation"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T23:00:13.623Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy to face no-confidence vote next week as she denies Opposition claims","native":"Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy to face no-confidence vote in Dáil next Tuesday"},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ","auth":{"1":"0246783d602c73081291c98c28c1a6adf3d030dd488515e7ca3efb9bcc6b0ad5"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VHKTG4D37DLL24HG6SHRJOXKKQ.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/ceann-comhairle-verona-murphy-to-face-no-confidence-vote-next-week-as-she-denies-opposition-claims/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"E4SADC6RCJCNRHG3RRDWA3CURE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":142,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/8b819c03-ad2e-4fc0-9cb4-0cdce7b5a3ba/versions/1742934833/media/827ac9efdd8ee4bfb8161182927b2cc8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/","content_elements":[{"_id":"BL4GUIAGVVFGLOU26DZDWQTQ7E","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030525},"content":"Opposition leaders stopped short last night of tabling a motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" target=\"_blank\">Verona Murphy</a> following her decision to push through a vote on controversial changes to speaking rights amid chaotic scenes in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Dáil</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NWKFHGZ5FDSREY3DGVLARGNKE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030526},"content":"In a show of unity, five Opposition leaders, representing 75 TDs, held a joint media conference on the plinth of Leinster House where they accused the Coalition of giving “two fingers” to democracy by ramming through new speaking slots for Government-supporting Independents, led by Tipperary North TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_blank\">Michael Lowry</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"42H7TCMLFJAYDOCUM2DGL55R6E","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030527},"content":"Much of their focus was on the role played by Ms Murphy in the proceedings, with Opposition leaders accusing her and the Government of working together to push the vote through.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5E2UH6VYD5G3VPKR65HDJSMNC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Analysis: Unruly Dáil scenes inevitable with Coalition and Opposition on collision course","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"EDOJ46HBJRCIXJPVBW6TXTMRRE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030528},"content":"A new group called “Other TDs” – comprised of the Lowry group and Government backbenchers – will be allowed two eight-minute slots a week to ask questions of the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4KDTYGAQYBASTABRQGSPVDRQFE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030529},"content":"“Nobody observing today’s business could have had any confidence in the way in which the Ceann Comhairle conducted herself,” said <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_blank\">Mary Lou McDonald</a>. “She put a wrecking ball through standing orders.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XRA5RBTUQFE5PFNOQFRBLDRU44","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030530},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/labour-party/\" target=\"_blank\">Labour</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_blank\">Ivana Bacik</a> said she was dismayed at Ms Murphy’s actions, while <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\">Cian O’Callaghan</a> of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_blank\">Social Democrats</a> said they were “highly questionable”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"DZDPNIIDYZEXTDYAPBBSJMOUFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"33QEL47CPZDTDISO2ST6LG4SKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030531},"content":"Michael Collins of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/independent-ireland/\" target=\"_blank\">Independent Ireland</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/richard-boyd-barrett/\" target=\"_blank\">Richard Boyd Barrett</a> of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/people-before-profit-alliance/\" target=\"_blank\">People Before Profit</a> honed in on a two-finger gesture made by Mr Lowry in the chamber, saying it typified the contempt shown to the people of Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AHCCNK46FBCGPM4JFIXMAS3PCY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030532},"content":"However, when pressed, the Opposition leaders would not say if they would table a motion against Ms Murphy, saying they needed time to reflect on the matter. Opposition leaders will meet today to discuss their next moves, including a possible motion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3B67LPH7BFFXDB4YXT3AXICBTU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030533},"content":"Further disruptions to Dáil business are likely. One senior figure said that there is “no way” the matter will rest here.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6D2ZMD5GOFEU5EGBICXSAXBC6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030534},"content":"The Dáil was suspended early yesterday amid much shouting, disruption and heckling. Ms Murphy told TDs they were “making an absolute show” of themselves” and said they had “no respect for the chair”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XREERTBW6ZGG3OV3D6NSADD4SA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030535},"content":"In a statement last night, Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Micheál Martin</a> claimed the scenes in the Dáil “marked a new low in the behaviour of the Opposition”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Opposition stops short of tabling motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle following her decision to push through vote on controversial changes"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Opposition leaders stop short of no confidence motion in Verona Murphy","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM","auth":{"1":"e4dddf0c3cf22263d603522020db01ff2753d07e887e2c58adfd22e4d702692e"},"focal_point":{"x":2193,"y":1108},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750","embed_html":"<div class=\"powa\" id=\"powa-acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750\" data-org=\"irishtimes\" data-env=\"prod\" data-uuid=\"acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.562\" data-api=\"prod\"><script src=\"//irishtimes.video-player.arcpublishing.com/prod/powaBoot.js?org=irishtimes\"><\/script></div>","promo_image":{"auth":{"1":"f654db0851d080e50f9878c912e4761aa2486141e2156663398d3eb2b0be3c8f"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-25-2025/t_81cfd88d073e47e7bfc413345d95e5bb_name_lowry.JPG"},"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"f654db0851d080e50f9878c912e4761aa2486141e2156663398d3eb2b0be3c8f"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-25-2025/t_81cfd88d073e47e7bfc413345d95e5bb_name_lowry.JPG"}},"type":"video"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"OC3S27LGBVFW7EUMNPD3G3HIC4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":173,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5bb15b8c-d70b-44fd-8ab3-a2a06479b7e1/versions/1742408920/media/a7fce42d64f505aa882ea8e1ec7ac22d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-rejects-claim-of-stalling-over-oireachtas-committees-to-protect-michael-lowry-group/","content_elements":[{"_id":"KUNKOUVXGNDYRD5AY62BKR57DU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> has rejected Opposition claims that the Government is delaying the formation of Oireachtas committees to protect the Independent group led by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DTEQLYTSGNGY3FDERN4EOQX7Q4","additional_properties":{},"content":"During the ongoing row on Opposition <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/02/27/opposition-to-withdraw-dail-pairing-arrangements-as-speaking-rights-row-deepens/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/02/27/opposition-to-withdraw-dail-pairing-arrangements-as-speaking-rights-row-deepens/\">speaking rights for the Independents</a>, Mr Martin said the Dáil could debate legislation on the issue in plenary session and summarily push it through without going through committee stage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UBUE26P5JVGJTJJ6JGH4HLL7EY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The row erupted over calls by the Lowry group to have the same speaking rights as Opposition parties while supporting the Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJVIPPOJNZB4LLT27GL2JWQHLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> claimed the Dáil is effectively “in cold storage”. Four months after the election, no committees are in place and the Government’s legislative priority is “to get more money for junior Ministers”, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVJTGGR7CZAEXDJLE2EB4XIX2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"She claimed “the Government’s priority is to placate Deputy Michael Lowry and his underlings with the pretence and fiction that they can carry out Opposition functions here in the Dáil”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RM6MGKE2LNGKVGYYGIHCWNGRCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Government’s speaking-rights stroke is hardly an existential threat to democracy","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"HO4UPMJ2OVFRZD6NG73VMZRR74","additional_properties":{},"content":"Labour leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\">Ivana Bacik</a> said the Ceann Comhairle ruled “on the Lowry lads’ status that they are not a technical group in opposition”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LTSYQNQ3AZAE7EQQX3HXO33KKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government, rather than the Opposition, is delaying the formation of the committees, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LVOGSJN6LBBY3HZT5LHBX6ES44","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Opposition is abiding by the Ceann Comhairle’s ruling, but the Government wants to change it, she said, adding that the Opposition has not seen the details of the proposed changes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3E5LIHPFVBC4XJK2DQPZ7Z6LRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Apparently, it will be pushed through to a vote by the Government next week. In the meantime, committees cannot be formed because the Government is looking to change things.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MLWODMGNH5EG3PLPAUMC5OQA5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Independent Barry Heneghan sought to speak, but Leas-Cheann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-mcguinness/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-mcguinness/\">John McGuinness</a> said: “I cannot call Deputy Heneghan. He is not a member of the Opposition so he cannot be called.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OKL2J2O6RND3HFBEOCNN6UL3UU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Aontú leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peadar-toibin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peadar-toibin/\">Peadar Tóibín</a> said the Dáil has only sat for 17 days since the general election 110 days ago. He called for an extra day’s sitting this week and next “so that we can actually get about the work that is necessary in this country”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVIEL3LOWRB4JG677SUASNUGPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘An ugly lack of respect:’ How a row over a small group of Independent TDs has darkened the Dáil’s atmosphere","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"5INAVICRPZCY3KHLRPPYYJ65RI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin insisted the Government is not holding up the establishment of the committees “in any shape or form”. He called on the Opposition to “agree to the formation of committees, and not get in the way of them being formed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RB3KQQHLQNCMPAIAW4DMLK34ZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Government is getting on with it. We will continue to do what we have to do with regard to decisions,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPDQVAYRFVFAZMHXZURPKU34JU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We should be passing legislation. We can do it by plenary session if we have to and we will in terms of legislation that will come forward. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5X53TJ5PNNBNJMFTJVKDBOI6KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We will pass it through the House. If Opposition deputies do not want to form committees and want to be a barrier to the formation of committees, that is their business,” Mr Martin said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sinn Féin leader says Dáil in ‘cold storage’ and that Government’s priority is ‘money for junior Ministers’"},"display_date":"2025-03-19T18:22:45.559Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach rejects claim of stalling over Oireachtas committees to protect Michael Lowry group","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE","auth":{"1":"1d8f124b1bb9f2576d61aef6df6943693ba782bf2aeeb79bda8721e3ac9af9db"},"focal_point":{"x":1729,"y":1597},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-rejects-claim-of-stalling-over-oireachtas-committees-to-protect-michael-lowry-group/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"ZALTQYFDDJBIXLEOH3BBS7U2QI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":245,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/1cbebb0c-aaa9-4a65-bf8e-e8e0410986f9/versions/1742406826/media/55cf762a79043b515e02c0458ca75305_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-sniggered-about-housing-in-oval-office-in-action-of-obsequious-coward-claims-sinn-fein-leader/","content_elements":[{"_id":"QJ6S3CTNOZC3ZIJ2YTFL6DT5ME","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355324},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_blank\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> accused the Taoiseach of “spoofing” and claimed his “sniggering” in the White House about the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/housing-crisis/\" target=\"_blank\">housing crisis</a> was the action of an “obsequious coward”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYJSLYPPVFGB3LP7QYBNL4LQKE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355325},"content":"During sharp exchanges in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Dáil</a>, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Michéal Martin</a> in turn claimed she was “pathetic” and told her to “get off the stage” and that “nobody was sniggering”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KXJDTJBVJJG4DJM6ZTK7UA7D7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355326},"content":"He accused her of ignoring his comments in the Oval Office when he said that “the number-one issue in Ireland is housing. We’ve got to build them. We’ve got to build more houses”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CK4ERHTXZHI3DUTNYH3VZVHGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355327},"content":"Housing dominated questions on Wednesday, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/labour-party/\" target=\"_blank\">Labour</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_blank\">Ivana Bacik</a> accusing the Government of engaging in “propaganda” on housing figures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W5CYHKN3S5ENVGPR6JOZXMRDEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355328},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_blank\">Social Democrats</a> housing spokesman <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\">Cian O’Callaghan</a> accused the Government of “spin, bluster, deflection”. The Coalition has engaged in a “Comical Ali routine” by pretending the previous government’s election claim that 40,000 houses would be built last year was “somehow an honest mistake”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TW5WBQAWVVGGFLZWBUWAJRTR34","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355329},"content":"During Leaders’ Questions, Ms McDonald referred to Mr Martin’s joint press conference with US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\">Donald Trump</a>, who said the housing crisis is a good problem caused by Ireland doing so well.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3CBFXUWYBNGXVPUAQU4GPZAMVE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355330},"content":"“You were sitting in the Oval Office laughing about Ireland’s housing crisis,” Ms McDonald said. “You said: ‘That’s a pretty good answer Mr President’,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"REBC64RCFFHFBFOMZWNW5U63GQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355331},"content":"She asked if this was a “pretty good answer” for people locked out of home ownership or “crucified with rip-off rents”. She asked Mr Martin: “Do you recognise the hurt [caused] by your laughing with the American president about the Irish housing crisis?”","type":"text"},{"_id":"BXWG2YT2NJBEBGEYX2ZVSZLNSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355332},"content":"“Your sniggering interaction hurt a lot of people. Taoiseach, you made light of their suffering. So Government misleads people on housing at home and then laughs at them while rubbing shoulders with the powerful abroad.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LBZ6W3E2RRAOPBGTOAPGQ7MNUM","additional_properties":{"_id":"GVASYUCPQRCP7HJHEBJ52PMQVU"},"content":"Central Bank cuts growth forecasts amid US tariff threat","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"6YUABT73WVGBLKJR3UGJX2RGQ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355333},"content":"Mr Martin retorted that nobody was “sniggering” and that nobody was going to “buy in to your propaganda, your feigned outrage”. He said Ms McDonald did not have “the courage or the guts” to go to Washington.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y3TYCKQ6OBFQ7JBGECAOD6TA7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355334},"content":"He highlighted his comments in the Oval Office that housing was the number-one issue in Ireland but said she “chose to ignore that”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YRIUETRGEFCBVAWQJY5QDFBDLU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355335},"content":"Ms McDonald also challenged him about the Government’s claim 40,000 houses would be built in 2024 when the actual figure ended up being 30,330. She claimed the government “cynically misled the public on the key issue of housing during the general election”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q5GPZKFG4VF2VOW4J6P3ZVT3K4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355336},"content":"Ms McDonald referred to a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/18/officials-cast-doubt-weeks-before-election-that-2024-housing-targets-would-be-hit/\" target=\"_blank\">report issued by the Department of Finance</a> to then minister for finance <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-chambers/\" target=\"_blank\">Jack Chambers</a> days before the election that the 40,000 target would not be met. She said Mr Chambers, currently Minister for Public Expenditure, was “caught out for misleading the public” because he did not disclose the report from his own department.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JVE5OOJSONENDJCXH5B5JU2SEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355337},"content":"She asked if Mr Chambers had shared the report with Government colleagues. Ms McDonald said it would be unbelievable if he had not.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3Y2FWJ5RRHLFMC3LN6VVEOQTU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355338},"content":"Labour’s Ms Bacik said the Government was moving “at a snail’s pace on housing” and claims of achieving 40,000 homes last year were Government propaganda. Ms Bacik said the financing was not in place and the Central Bank on Wednesday said housing numbers would be down over the next three years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GVLVF3AY5BBHXCEHOD66ESYXJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355339},"content":"Ms Bacik said the Government rejected any initiative the Opposition suggested.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BNA57TWJHJDOTJSZP575MKWWUI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355340},"content":"When Mr O’Callaghan asked if the Government was going to meet the 2025 target of 41,000 homes, the Taoiseach said the Opposition would claim Government failure no matter what target was set.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ETR44S3KJARZBA53VGWNEYQWY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355341},"content":"Mr Martin acknowledged there had been a significant reduction in the number of planning permissions, and private investors and developers had to be encouraged. He confirmed a target of 41,000 this year but said this was “going to be very challenging”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Martin says McDonald's 'feigned outrage' ignores his comments about housing being Ireland’s number-one issue"},"display_date":"2025-03-19T17:45:03.779Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach’s ‘sniggering’ in Oval Office was action of ‘obsequious coward’, claims Sinn Féin leader","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"NGFPJAWCXLG6KPGD7QQZNET2DU","auth":{"1":"29b4316649d6852948740e1c585d7e5156e17ebb22f0204f5d33f01cac1ae0f7"},"focal_point":{"x":1059,"y":657},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NGFPJAWCXLG6KPGD7QQZNET2DU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-sniggered-about-housing-in-oval-office-in-action-of-obsequious-coward-claims-sinn-fein-leader/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"DHGPNCAIUBFO3FYD3N3ZJXHR7Q","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":361,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/79845619-3bd4-4254-97b9-3f4df403864a/versions/1741192187/media/07ba804702731994c27000f81092532f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/taoiseach-insists-ireland-will-raise-ukraine-and-gaza-during-oval-office-talks/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UGOCIVGTHNELDPH6NISK6YJJAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542501},"content":"A potential Ukraine peace deal and greater Irish-British co-operation to protect subsea cables from attack will be on the agenda when the neighbour governments meet at a UK-Ireland summit in northwest England on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TVKXGK6LBZEL7IO22RUOXLB5NA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542502},"content":"Speaking in Liverpool on Wednesday evening, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he expects to discuss with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer about his recent efforts to keep US President Donald Trump onside regarding a peace deal for Ukraine.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EBF4QFNNZRHN3JF7P24SYZQF4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542503},"content":"The Taoiseach said he has no need to ask the prime minister for advice on how to handle Mr Trump, who he will meet next week in the White House.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IFSY2S7SE5BVDGHQMGIUBNS47Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542504},"content":"Instead, Mr Martin said he and Mr Starmer will talk about recent geopolitical events.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TVB3276F5VBN3DQJIR7ZZ7SEFQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542505},"content":"The Irish ministers attending the Liverpool meeting include Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris, Minister for Education Helen McEntee, Minister for the Environment Darragh O’Brien, and Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4K3LB7YUANDSDPI5K74NV23NUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542506},"content":"Speaking in the Dáil earlier on Wednesday, Mr Martin said he wants a “durable and sustainable” peace deal for Ukraine and he will be making that point in his meeting next week with Mr Trump.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TZQPZ7SKF5ECZC4GY2W2XHV4FA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542507},"content":"He said there were “different perspectives” on how to reach a solution for the war in Ukraine.","type":"text"},{"_id":"425AYJIZBJGS3PG4Y54O57WXHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542508},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UQHVGH7RNBE7DNYJI7SC6NUSWE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542509},"content":"He told Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald that in terms of Gaza and the Middle East “we want to consolidate the ceasefire and will be very strongly making that point. We want a surge in humanitarian aid into Gaza”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KLPINSMWVBHTRGBUTDE5RC6UNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542510},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YG6QMQZO5NCBHKGAWGCJPX637Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542511},"content":"The relationship between the US and Ireland is “older than the State itself, and it’s an extremely important one”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OHGUVPP4ABAJ7OAW2BMU3DPGOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542512},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"HM5AVZ57MFGWJKGUN6VJBVGKFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542513},"content":"“In terms of the core issues, the economic relationship is very important. We’re an open small economy, pro-free trade, and I will be articulate from that perspective. We will also articulate our views in relation to Ukraine, and in relation to the Middle East also,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBDTHVI6OJDITMUSMHWLPLW5ZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542514},"content":"Ms McDonald had asked him to state “very, very clearly” what he would be saying to the US president.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DMTPJ2TEPRBXLBEDFFMEZAZG3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542515},"content":"“Will you put it to President Trump that Ireland stands on the side of international law and diplomacy, that the sovereignty of Ukraine must be upheld, that the pressing and immediate priority now is to build peace through inclusive engagement and good faith dialogue?”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TPLLK7TPVRG5ZI3Y3XIE73FRAU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542516},"content":"She asked Mr Martin if he will ”express our strong view that the US is catastrophically wrong on Gaza, that the proposal for the mass expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza is absolutely an unacceptable breach of international law, (and) deeply destabilising for the Middle East and the wider world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BXCME7R5VZDPTK5ICA6AOQZIZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542517},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"MT55CGQFLZFZDGLJD7LKB7WRQU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542518},"content":"Ms McDonald raised the announcement by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen that she would seek another €800 billion spending on defence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XKPOZKGLPFDXBCXXFN47XE6IYA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542519},"content":"She said “peace is not achieved by investing and financing war” and “every rule in the book” has been set aside to enable this investment “in the weapons of war”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3K7S3ZUKIRGGHE2OMXLJC3N4AI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542520},"content":"Mr Martin told her many EU countries are fearful of the threat Russia poses to their existence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UAJEQJCWDZGD5JEPLTP4NYSIK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542521},"content":"“No one wants war, but Europe is exposed right now, the Baltics, in particular, Poland, and many others,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2IWKEHZ5YVFLTH7QPX6RT6BGX4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542522},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"3EPS6ZWV35A65HURL7VYQUZYKU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542523},"content":"“Europe has to be self-reliant in order to ensure peace and prosperity,“ he said, adding that President von der Leyen made clear in her opening remarks that Europe is about peace and prosperity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FF23SWYZLZGWXIWRTP264S2OPQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542524},"content":"The EU has to enhance member states' military and security capability across a range of areas including cyber security, maritime security, and energy security, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QC36NMPAINH3PJRGMD5BIMX3IA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542525},"content":"Ms McDonald said the EC president had “kick started an EU arms race”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HHJJIDR5RFFDFLBOC3LA4HI67I","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542526},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"NKGOO5DDCND37E7SGJ2SJAVTTA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542527},"content":"Separately, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill – who is travelling to the US for St Patrick’s Day events next week – rejected a suggestion by former acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney that the Taoiseach should consider not going to the White House meeting.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4E6L3545FFETOCOY3HHIWIE4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542528},"content":"His remarks came in a Business Post interview in the wake of the clash between Mr Trump and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy last week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BDGNWDXTR5HVVKA2OHYP62KVVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542529},"content":"“If I was the Taoiseach I might think about sitting this one out, even though I know that’s not going to happen,” said Mr Mulvaney, who served in president Trump’s first administration.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M3BNUMHZY5BI7NRXJF7WROZLEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542530},"content":"He highlighted the Apple tax case, Ireland’s stance on Israel and the trade deficit between Ireland and the US in making the comments. He also argued Irish diplomacy is “not perceived as bipartisan as it used to be”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JLNRUWPZ3BEZVITCBZSUDZTNYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542531},"content":"Ms Carroll MacNeill responded to Mr Mulvaney’s remarks by saying Mr Martin is operating in “the best interests of the State.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"UJB5XSTKRFHTVH45HGE2DR5Z6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542532},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Paul"}},"name":"Mark Paul"}]},"description":{"basic":"Martin says he and Starmer will talk about recent geopolitical events"},"display_date":"2025-03-05T19:59:12.373Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach and UK prime minister to discuss potential Ukraine peace deal at Liverpool summit","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HYAJOZUSKXCSZVTG3TUJ4OUH34","auth":{"1":"ddcf75ff4e21ceb13a2c6fbad2c76bcb167898bbf5bc5400bbad35c9b8c592c2"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HYAJOZUSKXCSZVTG3TUJ4OUH34.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/taoiseach-insists-ireland-will-raise-ukraine-and-gaza-during-oval-office-talks/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}}],"count":10000,"_id":"8b1edf6eac350b10852ff6201fd7521a40c70c71fdcdc0f3442e69768c4bf4fa"},"expires":1743500998818,"lastModified":1743500698683},"{\"feedOffset\":2,\"feedSize\":5,\"offset\":2,\"query\":\"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\\"/politics/oireachtas\\\") AND (subtype:default)\",\"size\":5}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"E4SADC6RCJCNRHG3RRDWA3CURE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":142,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/8b819c03-ad2e-4fc0-9cb4-0cdce7b5a3ba/versions/1742934833/media/827ac9efdd8ee4bfb8161182927b2cc8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/","content_elements":[{"_id":"BL4GUIAGVVFGLOU26DZDWQTQ7E","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030525},"content":"Opposition leaders stopped short last night of tabling a motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/verona-murphy/\" target=\"_blank\">Verona Murphy</a> following her decision to push through a vote on controversial changes to speaking rights amid chaotic scenes in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Dáil</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NWKFHGZ5FDSREY3DGVLARGNKE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030526},"content":"In a show of unity, five Opposition leaders, representing 75 TDs, held a joint media conference on the plinth of Leinster House where they accused the Coalition of giving “two fingers” to democracy by ramming through new speaking slots for Government-supporting Independents, led by Tipperary North TD <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_blank\">Michael Lowry</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"42H7TCMLFJAYDOCUM2DGL55R6E","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030527},"content":"Much of their focus was on the role played by Ms Murphy in the proceedings, with Opposition leaders accusing her and the Government of working together to push the vote through.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5E2UH6VYD5G3VPKR65HDJSMNC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Analysis: Unruly Dáil scenes inevitable with Coalition and Opposition on collision course","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"EDOJ46HBJRCIXJPVBW6TXTMRRE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030528},"content":"A new group called “Other TDs” – comprised of the Lowry group and Government backbenchers – will be allowed two eight-minute slots a week to ask questions of the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4KDTYGAQYBASTABRQGSPVDRQFE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030529},"content":"“Nobody observing today’s business could have had any confidence in the way in which the Ceann Comhairle conducted herself,” said <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_blank\">Mary Lou McDonald</a>. “She put a wrecking ball through standing orders.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XRA5RBTUQFE5PFNOQFRBLDRU44","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030530},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/labour-party/\" target=\"_blank\">Labour</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_blank\">Ivana Bacik</a> said she was dismayed at Ms Murphy’s actions, while <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\">Cian O’Callaghan</a> of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_blank\">Social Democrats</a> said they were “highly questionable”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"DZDPNIIDYZEXTDYAPBBSJMOUFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"33QEL47CPZDTDISO2ST6LG4SKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030531},"content":"Michael Collins of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/independent-ireland/\" target=\"_blank\">Independent Ireland</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/richard-boyd-barrett/\" target=\"_blank\">Richard Boyd Barrett</a> of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/people-before-profit-alliance/\" target=\"_blank\">People Before Profit</a> honed in on a two-finger gesture made by Mr Lowry in the chamber, saying it typified the contempt shown to the people of Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AHCCNK46FBCGPM4JFIXMAS3PCY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030532},"content":"However, when pressed, the Opposition leaders would not say if they would table a motion against Ms Murphy, saying they needed time to reflect on the matter. Opposition leaders will meet today to discuss their next moves, including a possible motion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3B67LPH7BFFXDB4YXT3AXICBTU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030533},"content":"Further disruptions to Dáil business are likely. One senior figure said that there is “no way” the matter will rest here.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6D2ZMD5GOFEU5EGBICXSAXBC6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030534},"content":"The Dáil was suspended early yesterday amid much shouting, disruption and heckling. Ms Murphy told TDs they were “making an absolute show” of themselves” and said they had “no respect for the chair”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XREERTBW6ZGG3OV3D6NSADD4SA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742933030535},"content":"In a statement last night, Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Micheál Martin</a> claimed the scenes in the Dáil “marked a new low in the behaviour of the Opposition”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Harry McGee"}},"name":"Harry McGee"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Pat Leahy"}},"name":"Pat Leahy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Opposition stops short of tabling motion of no confidence in Ceann Comhairle following her decision to push through vote on controversial changes"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Opposition leaders stop short of no confidence motion in Verona Murphy","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM","auth":{"1":"e4dddf0c3cf22263d603522020db01ff2753d07e887e2c58adfd22e4d702692e"},"focal_point":{"x":2193,"y":1108},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NOHHFKSKNNRWWVT3ZGHG5GMFBM.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750","embed_html":"<div class=\"powa\" id=\"powa-acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750\" data-org=\"irishtimes\" data-env=\"prod\" data-uuid=\"acc71ab2-9dd1-44ad-95bf-d9814d965750\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.562\" data-api=\"prod\"><script src=\"//irishtimes.video-player.arcpublishing.com/prod/powaBoot.js?org=irishtimes\"><\/script></div>","promo_image":{"auth":{"1":"f654db0851d080e50f9878c912e4761aa2486141e2156663398d3eb2b0be3c8f"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-25-2025/t_81cfd88d073e47e7bfc413345d95e5bb_name_lowry.JPG"},"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"f654db0851d080e50f9878c912e4761aa2486141e2156663398d3eb2b0be3c8f"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-25-2025/t_81cfd88d073e47e7bfc413345d95e5bb_name_lowry.JPG"}},"type":"video"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/26/opposition-leaders-accuse-coalition-of-giving-two-fingers-to-democracy-over-speaking-rights-row/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"OC3S27LGBVFW7EUMNPD3G3HIC4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":173,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5bb15b8c-d70b-44fd-8ab3-a2a06479b7e1/versions/1742408920/media/a7fce42d64f505aa882ea8e1ec7ac22d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-rejects-claim-of-stalling-over-oireachtas-committees-to-protect-michael-lowry-group/","content_elements":[{"_id":"KUNKOUVXGNDYRD5AY62BKR57DU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> has rejected Opposition claims that the Government is delaying the formation of Oireachtas committees to protect the Independent group led by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DTEQLYTSGNGY3FDERN4EOQX7Q4","additional_properties":{},"content":"During the ongoing row on Opposition <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/02/27/opposition-to-withdraw-dail-pairing-arrangements-as-speaking-rights-row-deepens/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/02/27/opposition-to-withdraw-dail-pairing-arrangements-as-speaking-rights-row-deepens/\">speaking rights for the Independents</a>, Mr Martin said the Dáil could debate legislation on the issue in plenary session and summarily push it through without going through committee stage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UBUE26P5JVGJTJJ6JGH4HLL7EY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The row erupted over calls by the Lowry group to have the same speaking rights as Opposition parties while supporting the Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJVIPPOJNZB4LLT27GL2JWQHLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> claimed the Dáil is effectively “in cold storage”. Four months after the election, no committees are in place and the Government’s legislative priority is “to get more money for junior Ministers”, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVJTGGR7CZAEXDJLE2EB4XIX2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"She claimed “the Government’s priority is to placate Deputy Michael Lowry and his underlings with the pretence and fiction that they can carry out Opposition functions here in the Dáil”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RM6MGKE2LNGKVGYYGIHCWNGRCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Government’s speaking-rights stroke is hardly an existential threat to democracy","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"HO4UPMJ2OVFRZD6NG73VMZRR74","additional_properties":{},"content":"Labour leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\">Ivana Bacik</a> said the Ceann Comhairle ruled “on the Lowry lads’ status that they are not a technical group in opposition”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LTSYQNQ3AZAE7EQQX3HXO33KKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government, rather than the Opposition, is delaying the formation of the committees, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LVOGSJN6LBBY3HZT5LHBX6ES44","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Opposition is abiding by the Ceann Comhairle’s ruling, but the Government wants to change it, she said, adding that the Opposition has not seen the details of the proposed changes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3E5LIHPFVBC4XJK2DQPZ7Z6LRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Apparently, it will be pushed through to a vote by the Government next week. In the meantime, committees cannot be formed because the Government is looking to change things.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MLWODMGNH5EG3PLPAUMC5OQA5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Independent Barry Heneghan sought to speak, but Leas-Cheann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-mcguinness/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-mcguinness/\">John McGuinness</a> said: “I cannot call Deputy Heneghan. He is not a member of the Opposition so he cannot be called.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OKL2J2O6RND3HFBEOCNN6UL3UU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Aontú leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peadar-toibin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peadar-toibin/\">Peadar Tóibín</a> said the Dáil has only sat for 17 days since the general election 110 days ago. He called for an extra day’s sitting this week and next “so that we can actually get about the work that is necessary in this country”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVIEL3LOWRB4JG677SUASNUGPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘An ugly lack of respect:’ How a row over a small group of Independent TDs has darkened the Dáil’s atmosphere","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"5INAVICRPZCY3KHLRPPYYJ65RI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin insisted the Government is not holding up the establishment of the committees “in any shape or form”. He called on the Opposition to “agree to the formation of committees, and not get in the way of them being formed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RB3KQQHLQNCMPAIAW4DMLK34ZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Government is getting on with it. We will continue to do what we have to do with regard to decisions,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPDQVAYRFVFAZMHXZURPKU34JU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We should be passing legislation. We can do it by plenary session if we have to and we will in terms of legislation that will come forward. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5X53TJ5PNNBNJMFTJVKDBOI6KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We will pass it through the House. If Opposition deputies do not want to form committees and want to be a barrier to the formation of committees, that is their business,” Mr Martin said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sinn Féin leader says Dáil in ‘cold storage’ and that Government’s priority is ‘money for junior Ministers’"},"display_date":"2025-03-19T18:22:45.559Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach rejects claim of stalling over Oireachtas committees to protect Michael Lowry group","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE","auth":{"1":"1d8f124b1bb9f2576d61aef6df6943693ba782bf2aeeb79bda8721e3ac9af9db"},"focal_point":{"x":1729,"y":1597},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-rejects-claim-of-stalling-over-oireachtas-committees-to-protect-michael-lowry-group/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"ZALTQYFDDJBIXLEOH3BBS7U2QI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":245,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/1cbebb0c-aaa9-4a65-bf8e-e8e0410986f9/versions/1742406826/media/55cf762a79043b515e02c0458ca75305_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-sniggered-about-housing-in-oval-office-in-action-of-obsequious-coward-claims-sinn-fein-leader/","content_elements":[{"_id":"QJ6S3CTNOZC3ZIJ2YTFL6DT5ME","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355324},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_blank\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> accused the Taoiseach of “spoofing” and claimed his “sniggering” in the White House about the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/housing-crisis/\" target=\"_blank\">housing crisis</a> was the action of an “obsequious coward”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYJSLYPPVFGB3LP7QYBNL4LQKE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355325},"content":"During sharp exchanges in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Dáil</a>, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Michéal Martin</a> in turn claimed she was “pathetic” and told her to “get off the stage” and that “nobody was sniggering”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KXJDTJBVJJG4DJM6ZTK7UA7D7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355326},"content":"He accused her of ignoring his comments in the Oval Office when he said that “the number-one issue in Ireland is housing. We’ve got to build them. We’ve got to build more houses”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CK4ERHTXZHI3DUTNYH3VZVHGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355327},"content":"Housing dominated questions on Wednesday, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/labour-party/\" target=\"_blank\">Labour</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_blank\">Ivana Bacik</a> accusing the Government of engaging in “propaganda” on housing figures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W5CYHKN3S5ENVGPR6JOZXMRDEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355328},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_blank\">Social Democrats</a> housing spokesman <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\">Cian O’Callaghan</a> accused the Government of “spin, bluster, deflection”. The Coalition has engaged in a “Comical Ali routine” by pretending the previous government’s election claim that 40,000 houses would be built last year was “somehow an honest mistake”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TW5WBQAWVVGGFLZWBUWAJRTR34","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355329},"content":"During Leaders’ Questions, Ms McDonald referred to Mr Martin’s joint press conference with US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\">Donald Trump</a>, who said the housing crisis is a good problem caused by Ireland doing so well.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3CBFXUWYBNGXVPUAQU4GPZAMVE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355330},"content":"“You were sitting in the Oval Office laughing about Ireland’s housing crisis,” Ms McDonald said. “You said: ‘That’s a pretty good answer Mr President’,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"REBC64RCFFHFBFOMZWNW5U63GQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355331},"content":"She asked if this was a “pretty good answer” for people locked out of home ownership or “crucified with rip-off rents”. She asked Mr Martin: “Do you recognise the hurt [caused] by your laughing with the American president about the Irish housing crisis?”","type":"text"},{"_id":"BXWG2YT2NJBEBGEYX2ZVSZLNSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355332},"content":"“Your sniggering interaction hurt a lot of people. Taoiseach, you made light of their suffering. So Government misleads people on housing at home and then laughs at them while rubbing shoulders with the powerful abroad.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LBZ6W3E2RRAOPBGTOAPGQ7MNUM","additional_properties":{"_id":"GVASYUCPQRCP7HJHEBJ52PMQVU"},"content":"Central Bank cuts growth forecasts amid US tariff threat","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"6YUABT73WVGBLKJR3UGJX2RGQ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355333},"content":"Mr Martin retorted that nobody was “sniggering” and that nobody was going to “buy in to your propaganda, your feigned outrage”. He said Ms McDonald did not have “the courage or the guts” to go to Washington.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y3TYCKQ6OBFQ7JBGECAOD6TA7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355334},"content":"He highlighted his comments in the Oval Office that housing was the number-one issue in Ireland but said she “chose to ignore that”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YRIUETRGEFCBVAWQJY5QDFBDLU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355335},"content":"Ms McDonald also challenged him about the Government’s claim 40,000 houses would be built in 2024 when the actual figure ended up being 30,330. She claimed the government “cynically misled the public on the key issue of housing during the general election”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q5GPZKFG4VF2VOW4J6P3ZVT3K4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355336},"content":"Ms McDonald referred to a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/18/officials-cast-doubt-weeks-before-election-that-2024-housing-targets-would-be-hit/\" target=\"_blank\">report issued by the Department of Finance</a> to then minister for finance <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-chambers/\" target=\"_blank\">Jack Chambers</a> days before the election that the 40,000 target would not be met. She said Mr Chambers, currently Minister for Public Expenditure, was “caught out for misleading the public” because he did not disclose the report from his own department.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JVE5OOJSONENDJCXH5B5JU2SEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355337},"content":"She asked if Mr Chambers had shared the report with Government colleagues. Ms McDonald said it would be unbelievable if he had not.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3Y2FWJ5RRHLFMC3LN6VVEOQTU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355338},"content":"Labour’s Ms Bacik said the Government was moving “at a snail’s pace on housing” and claims of achieving 40,000 homes last year were Government propaganda. Ms Bacik said the financing was not in place and the Central Bank on Wednesday said housing numbers would be down over the next three years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GVLVF3AY5BBHXCEHOD66ESYXJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355339},"content":"Ms Bacik said the Government rejected any initiative the Opposition suggested.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BNA57TWJHJDOTJSZP575MKWWUI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355340},"content":"When Mr O’Callaghan asked if the Government was going to meet the 2025 target of 41,000 homes, the Taoiseach said the Opposition would claim Government failure no matter what target was set.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ETR44S3KJARZBA53VGWNEYQWY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355341},"content":"Mr Martin acknowledged there had been a significant reduction in the number of planning permissions, and private investors and developers had to be encouraged. He confirmed a target of 41,000 this year but said this was “going to be very challenging”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Martin says McDonald's 'feigned outrage' ignores his comments about housing being Ireland’s number-one issue"},"display_date":"2025-03-19T17:45:03.779Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach’s ‘sniggering’ in Oval Office was action of ‘obsequious coward’, claims Sinn Féin leader","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"NGFPJAWCXLG6KPGD7QQZNET2DU","auth":{"1":"29b4316649d6852948740e1c585d7e5156e17ebb22f0204f5d33f01cac1ae0f7"},"focal_point":{"x":1059,"y":657},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NGFPJAWCXLG6KPGD7QQZNET2DU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-sniggered-about-housing-in-oval-office-in-action-of-obsequious-coward-claims-sinn-fein-leader/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"DHGPNCAIUBFO3FYD3N3ZJXHR7Q","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":361,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/79845619-3bd4-4254-97b9-3f4df403864a/versions/1741192187/media/07ba804702731994c27000f81092532f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/taoiseach-insists-ireland-will-raise-ukraine-and-gaza-during-oval-office-talks/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UGOCIVGTHNELDPH6NISK6YJJAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542501},"content":"A potential Ukraine peace deal and greater Irish-British co-operation to protect subsea cables from attack will be on the agenda when the neighbour governments meet at a UK-Ireland summit in northwest England on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TVKXGK6LBZEL7IO22RUOXLB5NA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542502},"content":"Speaking in Liverpool on Wednesday evening, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he expects to discuss with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer about his recent efforts to keep US President Donald Trump onside regarding a peace deal for Ukraine.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EBF4QFNNZRHN3JF7P24SYZQF4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542503},"content":"The Taoiseach said he has no need to ask the prime minister for advice on how to handle Mr Trump, who he will meet next week in the White House.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IFSY2S7SE5BVDGHQMGIUBNS47Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542504},"content":"Instead, Mr Martin said he and Mr Starmer will talk about recent geopolitical events.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TVB3276F5VBN3DQJIR7ZZ7SEFQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542505},"content":"The Irish ministers attending the Liverpool meeting include Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris, Minister for Education Helen McEntee, Minister for the Environment Darragh O’Brien, and Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4K3LB7YUANDSDPI5K74NV23NUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542506},"content":"Speaking in the Dáil earlier on Wednesday, Mr Martin said he wants a “durable and sustainable” peace deal for Ukraine and he will be making that point in his meeting next week with Mr Trump.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TZQPZ7SKF5ECZC4GY2W2XHV4FA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542507},"content":"He said there were “different perspectives” on how to reach a solution for the war in Ukraine.","type":"text"},{"_id":"425AYJIZBJGS3PG4Y54O57WXHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542508},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UQHVGH7RNBE7DNYJI7SC6NUSWE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542509},"content":"He told Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald that in terms of Gaza and the Middle East “we want to consolidate the ceasefire and will be very strongly making that point. We want a surge in humanitarian aid into Gaza”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KLPINSMWVBHTRGBUTDE5RC6UNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542510},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YG6QMQZO5NCBHKGAWGCJPX637Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542511},"content":"The relationship between the US and Ireland is “older than the State itself, and it’s an extremely important one”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OHGUVPP4ABAJ7OAW2BMU3DPGOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542512},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"HM5AVZ57MFGWJKGUN6VJBVGKFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542513},"content":"“In terms of the core issues, the economic relationship is very important. We’re an open small economy, pro-free trade, and I will be articulate from that perspective. We will also articulate our views in relation to Ukraine, and in relation to the Middle East also,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBDTHVI6OJDITMUSMHWLPLW5ZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542514},"content":"Ms McDonald had asked him to state “very, very clearly” what he would be saying to the US president.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DMTPJ2TEPRBXLBEDFFMEZAZG3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542515},"content":"“Will you put it to President Trump that Ireland stands on the side of international law and diplomacy, that the sovereignty of Ukraine must be upheld, that the pressing and immediate priority now is to build peace through inclusive engagement and good faith dialogue?”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TPLLK7TPVRG5ZI3Y3XIE73FRAU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542516},"content":"She asked Mr Martin if he will ”express our strong view that the US is catastrophically wrong on Gaza, that the proposal for the mass expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza is absolutely an unacceptable breach of international law, (and) deeply destabilising for the Middle East and the wider world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BXCME7R5VZDPTK5ICA6AOQZIZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542517},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"MT55CGQFLZFZDGLJD7LKB7WRQU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542518},"content":"Ms McDonald raised the announcement by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen that she would seek another €800 billion spending on defence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XKPOZKGLPFDXBCXXFN47XE6IYA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542519},"content":"She said “peace is not achieved by investing and financing war” and “every rule in the book” has been set aside to enable this investment “in the weapons of war”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3K7S3ZUKIRGGHE2OMXLJC3N4AI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542520},"content":"Mr Martin told her many EU countries are fearful of the threat Russia poses to their existence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UAJEQJCWDZGD5JEPLTP4NYSIK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542521},"content":"“No one wants war, but Europe is exposed right now, the Baltics, in particular, Poland, and many others,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2IWKEHZ5YVFLTH7QPX6RT6BGX4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542522},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"3EPS6ZWV35A65HURL7VYQUZYKU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542523},"content":"“Europe has to be self-reliant in order to ensure peace and prosperity,“ he said, adding that President von der Leyen made clear in her opening remarks that Europe is about peace and prosperity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FF23SWYZLZGWXIWRTP264S2OPQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542524},"content":"The EU has to enhance member states' military and security capability across a range of areas including cyber security, maritime security, and energy security, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QC36NMPAINH3PJRGMD5BIMX3IA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542525},"content":"Ms McDonald said the EC president had “kick started an EU arms race”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HHJJIDR5RFFDFLBOC3LA4HI67I","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542526},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"NKGOO5DDCND37E7SGJ2SJAVTTA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542527},"content":"Separately, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill – who is travelling to the US for St Patrick’s Day events next week – rejected a suggestion by former acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney that the Taoiseach should consider not going to the White House meeting.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4E6L3545FFETOCOY3HHIWIE4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542528},"content":"His remarks came in a Business Post interview in the wake of the clash between Mr Trump and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy last week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BDGNWDXTR5HVVKA2OHYP62KVVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542529},"content":"“If I was the Taoiseach I might think about sitting this one out, even though I know that’s not going to happen,” said Mr Mulvaney, who served in president Trump’s first administration.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M3BNUMHZY5BI7NRXJF7WROZLEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542530},"content":"He highlighted the Apple tax case, Ireland’s stance on Israel and the trade deficit between Ireland and the US in making the comments. He also argued Irish diplomacy is “not perceived as bipartisan as it used to be”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JLNRUWPZ3BEZVITCBZSUDZTNYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542531},"content":"Ms Carroll MacNeill responded to Mr Mulvaney’s remarks by saying Mr Martin is operating in “the best interests of the State.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"UJB5XSTKRFHTVH45HGE2DR5Z6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542532},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Paul"}},"name":"Mark Paul"}]},"description":{"basic":"Martin says he and Starmer will talk about recent geopolitical events"},"display_date":"2025-03-05T19:59:12.373Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach and UK prime minister to discuss potential Ukraine peace deal at Liverpool summit","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HYAJOZUSKXCSZVTG3TUJ4OUH34","auth":{"1":"ddcf75ff4e21ceb13a2c6fbad2c76bcb167898bbf5bc5400bbad35c9b8c592c2"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HYAJOZUSKXCSZVTG3TUJ4OUH34.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/taoiseach-insists-ireland-will-raise-ukraine-and-gaza-during-oval-office-talks/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"ZPEGV6JLUVCBHJFZ3MEURWVUJU","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/hse-fined-43-million-over-failure-to-pay-for-toilet-rolls-and-cleaning-products/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UBD2F7DGWZHKDEMQSRAB6RDICE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652446},"content":"The HSE has been fined €4.3 million in the past two years for not paying its bills on time including for purchases including cleaning products and toilet rolls, the Dáil has heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J75QPUIKZBFOLGZXIERXIAP6YU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652447},"content":"Sinn Féin TD Mark Ward said “nobody is being held to account” as he highlighted fines the health service pays for delays in paying its invoices.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZFV5JUNF6RFL7D2QDBLXTZUDH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652448},"content":"“Every time a bill is not paid on time by the HSE for something as simple as cleaning products or toilet rolls or something like that, they get a fine,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ANN37PSL3RFM3HAAX42JKLTR3M","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652449},"content":"“In the last two years the HSE have been fined €4.3 million for not paying their bills on time,” funding he said could be used for badly needed services.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HHRCHAMNPBBWRKJV2OSDX4YDUY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652450},"content":"He was speaking during a debate about addressing Government spending waste and accountability, when controversial projects including the €336,000 Leinster House bike shelter and the €1.4 million security hut at Government buildings were highlighted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GKHU4BMFFZAW5O4IVFJD5KOPNE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652451},"content":"Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Jack Chambers said his department “will carry out a full review of public financial procedures. This review will specifically examine the accountability requirements in terms of providing value for money.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJAWHQB5BVA3JEEVBSGKCQAHWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652452},"content":"He added that his department had also recently introduced “the updated 2024 internal audit standards, as well as the financial reporting reform for the Civil Service”. This showed that the Government and his department “continue to raise accountability standards in the public service using best international practice”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GJ4KQLBC6FEXHE7CMPKCXENF7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652453},"content":"The Minister was speaking in the Independent Ireland private member’s debate introduced by Cork South-West TD Michael Collins who called for a department of efficiency and reform.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RJQFOP534ZBAJBWI6D245DE2FQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652454},"content":"He said it was a “practical, no-nonsense measure” and “what real oversight should look like. We need independent auditors, not political appointees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EJXFMEEA3JDXBJ4LU4QB2CHV2E","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652455},"content":"“We need experts from the private sector, people who know how to run a business, manage costs and keep projects on time and on budget. This new watchdog should have real power, including the power to arrive unannounced, dig through the books and expose waste in real time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GE2APQVBTFBZLF2BE4PQUX22HU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652456},"content":"“There should be no more soft reports, no more lessons learned. If waste is found, heads should roll and the public should know exactly who is responsible.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"5P7IBS2UEJFYLALFPGWXQREY2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652457},"content":"But Independent Minister of State Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran defended the controversial projects in rowdy exchanges with Mr Collins. He wanted to counter the narrative that accountability was not at the heart of Government expenditure.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWASNWCN5ZBJ3OKUIWFFPA5WUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652458},"content":"Mr Moran pointed out that during the election campaign Independent Ireland “talked about a Luas for every town in Ireland” and were now adopting an “Elon Musk type approach – kill the system, kill the people – the very people providing for this country.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"2XZDVPU4FBEGTOUSZZV5ONTARQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652459},"content":"The Minister, who has responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) said he was the “first one to say and apologies to people that mistakes were made”, even though he was not a member of the last government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5TOX6JLB3FENDO43GHFF4YVEAM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652460},"content":"He hit out at the Opposition for calling the bike shelter a “bike shed” and said it was built at a listed building (Leinster House) that is “cherished by people all over the world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4IYTXPGLZG75I5XKDGAZTWJII","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652461},"content":"He also defended OPW expenditure on a wall at the Hill of Tara and said the OPW was ‘not building a wall’ but carrying out maintenance work. It might have gone on for 12 years and go on for another 12 years, he said, but “the Hill of Tara never closed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4AHCCX4IKBFYHESUSB2X6OZXOU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652462},"content":"And he said that opposition parties and some Independents had “failed” to enter government when they had the opportunity. “You talked about government but you failed to go into government.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PUO44C6TY5AJFH5R25WJYJXHEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652463},"content":"He said “I went in because I believe I can make changes, I can deliver”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EORY5PNMDRD6XG72N2GNR32MQE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652464},"content":"But Mr Collins told him “you should be ashamed of yourself” for defending the controversial projects.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Independent Ireland accused of ‘Elon Musk-style’ plan to end wasteful Government spending"},"display_date":"2025-03-05T19:15:23.877Z","headlines":{"basic":"HSE fined €4.3m over failure to pay for toilet rolls and cleaning products","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5YW5XCB2WNEN3DDVDYA24EGA4A","auth":{"1":"baed8d46a83e93dd9b484bbb50c8bc1be02739b8cedf2175f5084def40574fda"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5YW5XCB2WNEN3DDVDYA24EGA4A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/hse-fined-43-million-over-failure-to-pay-for-toilet-rolls-and-cleaning-products/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}}],"count":10000,"_id":"1eaf1585a0f45250e26304e53af97d7d422889ff76c13dd3a9ff3cd2a1ec8a09"},"expires":1743500999133,"lastModified":1743500699010},"{\"feedOffset\":3,\"feedSize\":5,\"offset\":3,\"query\":\"taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\\"/politics/oireachtas\\\" AND subtype:default\",\"size\":5}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"OC3S27LGBVFW7EUMNPD3G3HIC4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":173,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5bb15b8c-d70b-44fd-8ab3-a2a06479b7e1/versions/1742408920/media/a7fce42d64f505aa882ea8e1ec7ac22d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-rejects-claim-of-stalling-over-oireachtas-committees-to-protect-michael-lowry-group/","content_elements":[{"_id":"KUNKOUVXGNDYRD5AY62BKR57DU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> has rejected Opposition claims that the Government is delaying the formation of Oireachtas committees to protect the Independent group led by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/michael-lowry/\">Michael Lowry</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DTEQLYTSGNGY3FDERN4EOQX7Q4","additional_properties":{},"content":"During the ongoing row on Opposition <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/02/27/opposition-to-withdraw-dail-pairing-arrangements-as-speaking-rights-row-deepens/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/02/27/opposition-to-withdraw-dail-pairing-arrangements-as-speaking-rights-row-deepens/\">speaking rights for the Independents</a>, Mr Martin said the Dáil could debate legislation on the issue in plenary session and summarily push it through without going through committee stage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UBUE26P5JVGJTJJ6JGH4HLL7EY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The row erupted over calls by the Lowry group to have the same speaking rights as Opposition parties while supporting the Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJVIPPOJNZB4LLT27GL2JWQHLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sinn Féin leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> claimed the Dáil is effectively “in cold storage”. Four months after the election, no committees are in place and the Government’s legislative priority is “to get more money for junior Ministers”, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVJTGGR7CZAEXDJLE2EB4XIX2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"She claimed “the Government’s priority is to placate Deputy Michael Lowry and his underlings with the pretence and fiction that they can carry out Opposition functions here in the Dáil”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RM6MGKE2LNGKVGYYGIHCWNGRCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Government’s speaking-rights stroke is hardly an existential threat to democracy","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"HO4UPMJ2OVFRZD6NG73VMZRR74","additional_properties":{},"content":"Labour leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\">Ivana Bacik</a> said the Ceann Comhairle ruled “on the Lowry lads’ status that they are not a technical group in opposition”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LTSYQNQ3AZAE7EQQX3HXO33KKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Government, rather than the Opposition, is delaying the formation of the committees, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LVOGSJN6LBBY3HZT5LHBX6ES44","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Opposition is abiding by the Ceann Comhairle’s ruling, but the Government wants to change it, she said, adding that the Opposition has not seen the details of the proposed changes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3E5LIHPFVBC4XJK2DQPZ7Z6LRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Apparently, it will be pushed through to a vote by the Government next week. In the meantime, committees cannot be formed because the Government is looking to change things.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MLWODMGNH5EG3PLPAUMC5OQA5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Independent Barry Heneghan sought to speak, but Leas-Cheann Comhairle <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-mcguinness/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/john-mcguinness/\">John McGuinness</a> said: “I cannot call Deputy Heneghan. He is not a member of the Opposition so he cannot be called.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OKL2J2O6RND3HFBEOCNN6UL3UU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Aontú leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peadar-toibin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peadar-toibin/\">Peadar Tóibín</a> said the Dáil has only sat for 17 days since the general election 110 days ago. He called for an extra day’s sitting this week and next “so that we can actually get about the work that is necessary in this country”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVIEL3LOWRB4JG677SUASNUGPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘An ugly lack of respect:’ How a row over a small group of Independent TDs has darkened the Dáil’s atmosphere","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"5INAVICRPZCY3KHLRPPYYJ65RI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin insisted the Government is not holding up the establishment of the committees “in any shape or form”. He called on the Opposition to “agree to the formation of committees, and not get in the way of them being formed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RB3KQQHLQNCMPAIAW4DMLK34ZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Government is getting on with it. We will continue to do what we have to do with regard to decisions,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPDQVAYRFVFAZMHXZURPKU34JU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We should be passing legislation. We can do it by plenary session if we have to and we will in terms of legislation that will come forward. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5X53TJ5PNNBNJMFTJVKDBOI6KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We will pass it through the House. If Opposition deputies do not want to form committees and want to be a barrier to the formation of committees, that is their business,” Mr Martin said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sinn Féin leader says Dáil in ‘cold storage’ and that Government’s priority is ‘money for junior Ministers’"},"display_date":"2025-03-19T18:22:45.559Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach rejects claim of stalling over Oireachtas committees to protect Michael Lowry group","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE","auth":{"1":"1d8f124b1bb9f2576d61aef6df6943693ba782bf2aeeb79bda8721e3ac9af9db"},"focal_point":{"x":1729,"y":1597},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/LTLQTZRZOKXKXDVDQJNZPY4KQE.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-rejects-claim-of-stalling-over-oireachtas-committees-to-protect-michael-lowry-group/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"ZALTQYFDDJBIXLEOH3BBS7U2QI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":245,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/1cbebb0c-aaa9-4a65-bf8e-e8e0410986f9/versions/1742406826/media/55cf762a79043b515e02c0458ca75305_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-sniggered-about-housing-in-oval-office-in-action-of-obsequious-coward-claims-sinn-fein-leader/","content_elements":[{"_id":"QJ6S3CTNOZC3ZIJ2YTFL6DT5ME","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355324},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein/\" target=\"_blank\">Sinn Féin</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" target=\"_blank\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> accused the Taoiseach of “spoofing” and claimed his “sniggering” in the White House about the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/housing-crisis/\" target=\"_blank\">housing crisis</a> was the action of an “obsequious coward”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYJSLYPPVFGB3LP7QYBNL4LQKE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355325},"content":"During sharp exchanges in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dail-eireann/\" target=\"_blank\">Dáil</a>, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" target=\"_blank\">Michéal Martin</a> in turn claimed she was “pathetic” and told her to “get off the stage” and that “nobody was sniggering”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KXJDTJBVJJG4DJM6ZTK7UA7D7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355326},"content":"He accused her of ignoring his comments in the Oval Office when he said that “the number-one issue in Ireland is housing. We’ve got to build them. We’ve got to build more houses”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CK4ERHTXZHI3DUTNYH3VZVHGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355327},"content":"Housing dominated questions on Wednesday, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/labour-party/\" target=\"_blank\">Labour</a> leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ivana-bacik/\" target=\"_blank\">Ivana Bacik</a> accusing the Government of engaging in “propaganda” on housing figures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W5CYHKN3S5ENVGPR6JOZXMRDEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355328},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/social-democrats/\" target=\"_blank\">Social Democrats</a> housing spokesman <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_blank\">Cian O’Callaghan</a> accused the Government of “spin, bluster, deflection”. The Coalition has engaged in a “Comical Ali routine” by pretending the previous government’s election claim that 40,000 houses would be built last year was “somehow an honest mistake”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TW5WBQAWVVGGFLZWBUWAJRTR34","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355329},"content":"During Leaders’ Questions, Ms McDonald referred to Mr Martin’s joint press conference with US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_blank\">Donald Trump</a>, who said the housing crisis is a good problem caused by Ireland doing so well.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3CBFXUWYBNGXVPUAQU4GPZAMVE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355330},"content":"“You were sitting in the Oval Office laughing about Ireland’s housing crisis,” Ms McDonald said. “You said: ‘That’s a pretty good answer Mr President’,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"REBC64RCFFHFBFOMZWNW5U63GQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355331},"content":"She asked if this was a “pretty good answer” for people locked out of home ownership or “crucified with rip-off rents”. She asked Mr Martin: “Do you recognise the hurt [caused] by your laughing with the American president about the Irish housing crisis?”","type":"text"},{"_id":"BXWG2YT2NJBEBGEYX2ZVSZLNSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355332},"content":"“Your sniggering interaction hurt a lot of people. Taoiseach, you made light of their suffering. So Government misleads people on housing at home and then laughs at them while rubbing shoulders with the powerful abroad.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LBZ6W3E2RRAOPBGTOAPGQ7MNUM","additional_properties":{"_id":"GVASYUCPQRCP7HJHEBJ52PMQVU"},"content":"Central Bank cuts growth forecasts amid US tariff threat","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"6YUABT73WVGBLKJR3UGJX2RGQ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355333},"content":"Mr Martin retorted that nobody was “sniggering” and that nobody was going to “buy in to your propaganda, your feigned outrage”. He said Ms McDonald did not have “the courage or the guts” to go to Washington.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y3TYCKQ6OBFQ7JBGECAOD6TA7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355334},"content":"He highlighted his comments in the Oval Office that housing was the number-one issue in Ireland but said she “chose to ignore that”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YRIUETRGEFCBVAWQJY5QDFBDLU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355335},"content":"Ms McDonald also challenged him about the Government’s claim 40,000 houses would be built in 2024 when the actual figure ended up being 30,330. She claimed the government “cynically misled the public on the key issue of housing during the general election”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q5GPZKFG4VF2VOW4J6P3ZVT3K4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355336},"content":"Ms McDonald referred to a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/03/18/officials-cast-doubt-weeks-before-election-that-2024-housing-targets-would-be-hit/\" target=\"_blank\">report issued by the Department of Finance</a> to then minister for finance <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jack-chambers/\" target=\"_blank\">Jack Chambers</a> days before the election that the 40,000 target would not be met. She said Mr Chambers, currently Minister for Public Expenditure, was “caught out for misleading the public” because he did not disclose the report from his own department.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JVE5OOJSONENDJCXH5B5JU2SEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355337},"content":"She asked if Mr Chambers had shared the report with Government colleagues. Ms McDonald said it would be unbelievable if he had not.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3Y2FWJ5RRHLFMC3LN6VVEOQTU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355338},"content":"Labour’s Ms Bacik said the Government was moving “at a snail’s pace on housing” and claims of achieving 40,000 homes last year were Government propaganda. Ms Bacik said the financing was not in place and the Central Bank on Wednesday said housing numbers would be down over the next three years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GVLVF3AY5BBHXCEHOD66ESYXJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355339},"content":"Ms Bacik said the Government rejected any initiative the Opposition suggested.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BNA57TWJHJDOTJSZP575MKWWUI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355340},"content":"When Mr O’Callaghan asked if the Government was going to meet the 2025 target of 41,000 homes, the Taoiseach said the Opposition would claim Government failure no matter what target was set.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ETR44S3KJARZBA53VGWNEYQWY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742405355341},"content":"Mr Martin acknowledged there had been a significant reduction in the number of planning permissions, and private investors and developers had to be encouraged. He confirmed a target of 41,000 this year but said this was “going to be very challenging”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Martin says McDonald's 'feigned outrage' ignores his comments about housing being Ireland’s number-one issue"},"display_date":"2025-03-19T17:45:03.779Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach’s ‘sniggering’ in Oval Office was action of ‘obsequious coward’, claims Sinn Féin leader","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"NGFPJAWCXLG6KPGD7QQZNET2DU","auth":{"1":"29b4316649d6852948740e1c585d7e5156e17ebb22f0204f5d33f01cac1ae0f7"},"focal_point":{"x":1059,"y":657},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NGFPJAWCXLG6KPGD7QQZNET2DU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/19/taoiseach-sniggered-about-housing-in-oval-office-in-action-of-obsequious-coward-claims-sinn-fein-leader/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"DHGPNCAIUBFO3FYD3N3ZJXHR7Q","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":361,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/79845619-3bd4-4254-97b9-3f4df403864a/versions/1741192187/media/07ba804702731994c27000f81092532f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/taoiseach-insists-ireland-will-raise-ukraine-and-gaza-during-oval-office-talks/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UGOCIVGTHNELDPH6NISK6YJJAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542501},"content":"A potential Ukraine peace deal and greater Irish-British co-operation to protect subsea cables from attack will be on the agenda when the neighbour governments meet at a UK-Ireland summit in northwest England on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TVKXGK6LBZEL7IO22RUOXLB5NA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542502},"content":"Speaking in Liverpool on Wednesday evening, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he expects to discuss with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer about his recent efforts to keep US President Donald Trump onside regarding a peace deal for Ukraine.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EBF4QFNNZRHN3JF7P24SYZQF4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542503},"content":"The Taoiseach said he has no need to ask the prime minister for advice on how to handle Mr Trump, who he will meet next week in the White House.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IFSY2S7SE5BVDGHQMGIUBNS47Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542504},"content":"Instead, Mr Martin said he and Mr Starmer will talk about recent geopolitical events.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TVB3276F5VBN3DQJIR7ZZ7SEFQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542505},"content":"The Irish ministers attending the Liverpool meeting include Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris, Minister for Education Helen McEntee, Minister for the Environment Darragh O’Brien, and Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4K3LB7YUANDSDPI5K74NV23NUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542506},"content":"Speaking in the Dáil earlier on Wednesday, Mr Martin said he wants a “durable and sustainable” peace deal for Ukraine and he will be making that point in his meeting next week with Mr Trump.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TZQPZ7SKF5ECZC4GY2W2XHV4FA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542507},"content":"He said there were “different perspectives” on how to reach a solution for the war in Ukraine.","type":"text"},{"_id":"425AYJIZBJGS3PG4Y54O57WXHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542508},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UQHVGH7RNBE7DNYJI7SC6NUSWE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542509},"content":"He told Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald that in terms of Gaza and the Middle East “we want to consolidate the ceasefire and will be very strongly making that point. We want a surge in humanitarian aid into Gaza”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KLPINSMWVBHTRGBUTDE5RC6UNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542510},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YG6QMQZO5NCBHKGAWGCJPX637Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542511},"content":"The relationship between the US and Ireland is “older than the State itself, and it’s an extremely important one”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OHGUVPP4ABAJ7OAW2BMU3DPGOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542512},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"HM5AVZ57MFGWJKGUN6VJBVGKFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542513},"content":"“In terms of the core issues, the economic relationship is very important. We’re an open small economy, pro-free trade, and I will be articulate from that perspective. We will also articulate our views in relation to Ukraine, and in relation to the Middle East also,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBDTHVI6OJDITMUSMHWLPLW5ZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542514},"content":"Ms McDonald had asked him to state “very, very clearly” what he would be saying to the US president.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DMTPJ2TEPRBXLBEDFFMEZAZG3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542515},"content":"“Will you put it to President Trump that Ireland stands on the side of international law and diplomacy, that the sovereignty of Ukraine must be upheld, that the pressing and immediate priority now is to build peace through inclusive engagement and good faith dialogue?”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TPLLK7TPVRG5ZI3Y3XIE73FRAU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542516},"content":"She asked Mr Martin if he will ”express our strong view that the US is catastrophically wrong on Gaza, that the proposal for the mass expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza is absolutely an unacceptable breach of international law, (and) deeply destabilising for the Middle East and the wider world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BXCME7R5VZDPTK5ICA6AOQZIZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542517},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"MT55CGQFLZFZDGLJD7LKB7WRQU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542518},"content":"Ms McDonald raised the announcement by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen that she would seek another €800 billion spending on defence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XKPOZKGLPFDXBCXXFN47XE6IYA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542519},"content":"She said “peace is not achieved by investing and financing war” and “every rule in the book” has been set aside to enable this investment “in the weapons of war”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3K7S3ZUKIRGGHE2OMXLJC3N4AI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542520},"content":"Mr Martin told her many EU countries are fearful of the threat Russia poses to their existence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UAJEQJCWDZGD5JEPLTP4NYSIK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542521},"content":"“No one wants war, but Europe is exposed right now, the Baltics, in particular, Poland, and many others,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2IWKEHZ5YVFLTH7QPX6RT6BGX4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542522},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"3EPS6ZWV35A65HURL7VYQUZYKU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542523},"content":"“Europe has to be self-reliant in order to ensure peace and prosperity,“ he said, adding that President von der Leyen made clear in her opening remarks that Europe is about peace and prosperity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FF23SWYZLZGWXIWRTP264S2OPQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542524},"content":"The EU has to enhance member states' military and security capability across a range of areas including cyber security, maritime security, and energy security, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QC36NMPAINH3PJRGMD5BIMX3IA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542525},"content":"Ms McDonald said the EC president had “kick started an EU arms race”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HHJJIDR5RFFDFLBOC3LA4HI67I","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542526},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"NKGOO5DDCND37E7SGJ2SJAVTTA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542527},"content":"Separately, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill – who is travelling to the US for St Patrick’s Day events next week – rejected a suggestion by former acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney that the Taoiseach should consider not going to the White House meeting.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4E6L3545FFETOCOY3HHIWIE4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542528},"content":"His remarks came in a Business Post interview in the wake of the clash between Mr Trump and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy last week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BDGNWDXTR5HVVKA2OHYP62KVVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542529},"content":"“If I was the Taoiseach I might think about sitting this one out, even though I know that’s not going to happen,” said Mr Mulvaney, who served in president Trump’s first administration.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M3BNUMHZY5BI7NRXJF7WROZLEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542530},"content":"He highlighted the Apple tax case, Ireland’s stance on Israel and the trade deficit between Ireland and the US in making the comments. He also argued Irish diplomacy is “not perceived as bipartisan as it used to be”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JLNRUWPZ3BEZVITCBZSUDZTNYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542531},"content":"Ms Carroll MacNeill responded to Mr Mulvaney’s remarks by saying Mr Martin is operating in “the best interests of the State.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"UJB5XSTKRFHTVH45HGE2DR5Z6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206542532},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Cormac McQuinn"}},"name":"Cormac McQuinn"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Paul"}},"name":"Mark Paul"}]},"description":{"basic":"Martin says he and Starmer will talk about recent geopolitical events"},"display_date":"2025-03-05T19:59:12.373Z","headlines":{"basic":"Taoiseach and UK prime minister to discuss potential Ukraine peace deal at Liverpool summit","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HYAJOZUSKXCSZVTG3TUJ4OUH34","auth":{"1":"ddcf75ff4e21ceb13a2c6fbad2c76bcb167898bbf5bc5400bbad35c9b8c592c2"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HYAJOZUSKXCSZVTG3TUJ4OUH34.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/taoiseach-insists-ireland-will-raise-ukraine-and-gaza-during-oval-office-talks/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"ZPEGV6JLUVCBHJFZ3MEURWVUJU","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/hse-fined-43-million-over-failure-to-pay-for-toilet-rolls-and-cleaning-products/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UBD2F7DGWZHKDEMQSRAB6RDICE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652446},"content":"The HSE has been fined €4.3 million in the past two years for not paying its bills on time including for purchases including cleaning products and toilet rolls, the Dáil has heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J75QPUIKZBFOLGZXIERXIAP6YU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652447},"content":"Sinn Féin TD Mark Ward said “nobody is being held to account” as he highlighted fines the health service pays for delays in paying its invoices.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZFV5JUNF6RFL7D2QDBLXTZUDH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652448},"content":"“Every time a bill is not paid on time by the HSE for something as simple as cleaning products or toilet rolls or something like that, they get a fine,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ANN37PSL3RFM3HAAX42JKLTR3M","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652449},"content":"“In the last two years the HSE have been fined €4.3 million for not paying their bills on time,” funding he said could be used for badly needed services.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HHRCHAMNPBBWRKJV2OSDX4YDUY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652450},"content":"He was speaking during a debate about addressing Government spending waste and accountability, when controversial projects including the €336,000 Leinster House bike shelter and the €1.4 million security hut at Government buildings were highlighted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GKHU4BMFFZAW5O4IVFJD5KOPNE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652451},"content":"Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Jack Chambers said his department “will carry out a full review of public financial procedures. This review will specifically examine the accountability requirements in terms of providing value for money.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJAWHQB5BVA3JEEVBSGKCQAHWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652452},"content":"He added that his department had also recently introduced “the updated 2024 internal audit standards, as well as the financial reporting reform for the Civil Service”. This showed that the Government and his department “continue to raise accountability standards in the public service using best international practice”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GJ4KQLBC6FEXHE7CMPKCXENF7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652453},"content":"The Minister was speaking in the Independent Ireland private member’s debate introduced by Cork South-West TD Michael Collins who called for a department of efficiency and reform.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RJQFOP534ZBAJBWI6D245DE2FQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652454},"content":"He said it was a “practical, no-nonsense measure” and “what real oversight should look like. We need independent auditors, not political appointees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EJXFMEEA3JDXBJ4LU4QB2CHV2E","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652455},"content":"“We need experts from the private sector, people who know how to run a business, manage costs and keep projects on time and on budget. This new watchdog should have real power, including the power to arrive unannounced, dig through the books and expose waste in real time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GE2APQVBTFBZLF2BE4PQUX22HU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652456},"content":"“There should be no more soft reports, no more lessons learned. If waste is found, heads should roll and the public should know exactly who is responsible.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"5P7IBS2UEJFYLALFPGWXQREY2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652457},"content":"But Independent Minister of State Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran defended the controversial projects in rowdy exchanges with Mr Collins. He wanted to counter the narrative that accountability was not at the heart of Government expenditure.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWASNWCN5ZBJ3OKUIWFFPA5WUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652458},"content":"Mr Moran pointed out that during the election campaign Independent Ireland “talked about a Luas for every town in Ireland” and were now adopting an “Elon Musk type approach – kill the system, kill the people – the very people providing for this country.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"2XZDVPU4FBEGTOUSZZV5ONTARQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652459},"content":"The Minister, who has responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) said he was the “first one to say and apologies to people that mistakes were made”, even though he was not a member of the last government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5TOX6JLB3FENDO43GHFF4YVEAM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652460},"content":"He hit out at the Opposition for calling the bike shelter a “bike shed” and said it was built at a listed building (Leinster House) that is “cherished by people all over the world”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4IYTXPGLZG75I5XKDGAZTWJII","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652461},"content":"He also defended OPW expenditure on a wall at the Hill of Tara and said the OPW was ‘not building a wall’ but carrying out maintenance work. It might have gone on for 12 years and go on for another 12 years, he said, but “the Hill of Tara never closed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4AHCCX4IKBFYHESUSB2X6OZXOU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652462},"content":"And he said that opposition parties and some Independents had “failed” to enter government when they had the opportunity. “You talked about government but you failed to go into government.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PUO44C6TY5AJFH5R25WJYJXHEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652463},"content":"He said “I went in because I believe I can make changes, I can deliver”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EORY5PNMDRD6XG72N2GNR32MQE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741211652464},"content":"But Mr Collins told him “you should be ashamed of yourself” for defending the controversial projects.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Independent Ireland accused of ‘Elon Musk-style’ plan to end wasteful Government spending"},"display_date":"2025-03-05T19:15:23.877Z","headlines":{"basic":"HSE fined €4.3m over failure to pay for toilet rolls and cleaning products","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5YW5XCB2WNEN3DDVDYA24EGA4A","auth":{"1":"baed8d46a83e93dd9b484bbb50c8bc1be02739b8cedf2175f5084def40574fda"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5YW5XCB2WNEN3DDVDYA24EGA4A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/hse-fined-43-million-over-failure-to-pay-for-toilet-rolls-and-cleaning-products/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}},{"_id":"IRJ2XR4VK5A7DH3AMTPVDRH7CY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":207,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/9c5eebd6-9db0-4013-8331-cf3044ec4bd8/versions/1741197954/media/7afcb18e8e06a7d46d3aa2b6de7dae66_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/all-criminal-suspects-cant-be-interned-says-taoiseach-responding-to-shocking-bail-figures/","content_elements":[{"_id":"X445VAINZVGZFELGWWBOAJ2MCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Suspects in 40,348 crimes were given bail last year, an increase of almost 5,000 on 2022, according to Sinn Féin leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mary-lou-mcdonald/\">Mary Lou McDonald</a> who described the figures as “shocking”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AJD6MZYSFBFW5DVFOM5YM4FDWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Calling for action on bail laws, she said that, “astonishingly”, 114,655 crime suspects were out on bail over the past three years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FVDXCJ3TEFFJNELORGVZTMIXDQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms McDonald said the figures were released in a parliamentary reply to Sinn Féin’s justice spokesman Matt Carthy. She said the situation with bail “cannot continue”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WDUQR5DUC5A2PKZWUYCE45R5RQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She told Taoiseach <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/\">Micheál Martin</a> that “people won’t tolerate a situation where criminals, people out on bail, are at liberty and free to offend and reoffend again and again”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SFM4HF55YRD4LKESQTQRWRC674","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The bail laws need to be examined with urgency to ensure that they’re being properly applied,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTH6THYB4BCZRESCPSRKXNAHWQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She asked the Taoiseach to say when the Government will “finally acknowledge and get on top of this issue”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"POHEYD3GERHIBF7ZKMMEZCC54Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin said he does not know whether she is “proposing wholesale internment of suspects”. He said the figures are “huge” and there must be a focus on people with “a history of crime”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2REL6SBMAVDLTORY5XWXJ5LV64","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the bail laws have been reformed and will be reformed further. The Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan is looking at the issue, he said, “but there are limits to what can be done”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6FRZSHFYKZDDRNVNXF7VAJEUMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We want to stamp down on crime,” Mr Martin said, adding: “we’re very intolerant of people committing crime.” But, he said, there cannot be a “wholesale system where everyone who is charged is locked up”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VAT6U6NHSFFIRH3ETE3S4WUSKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The figures released to Mr Carthy showed the largest number of suspects (9,340) on bail were for crimes committed in the north inner city, classed as the north central Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR), followed by 4,514 in the south central DMR. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6XPJKUKKMFG7XKWS6MVS3JSPVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the north Dublin DMR 2,764 people are on bail, while 2,711 are on bail in the west Dublin DMR.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FXG4NDYBZZFB7IBZDKYSQK2UCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In Meath/Westmeath 1,792 suspects received bail, compared to 1,750 in the Limerick region. The lowest number of bail cases was 434 in the Sligo/Leitrim area, with 576 in Mayo/Roscommon/Longford.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y32JPUXKE5HXVJNYEQLFFBLB2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the reply, the Minister stated that, under section 11 of the amended 1984 Criminal Justice Act, “any sentence of imprisonment for an offence committed while on bail shall run consecutive to any sentence for a previous offence”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7GF42QM3HVCCDDVDRR6ZC7MW6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"If an offence is committed while on bail this “must be treated as an aggravating factor in sentencing and result in a higher sentence”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FDF5STDZGVGYXCBWVDPS7A65NQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In his question Mr Carthy asked the category of offences for which suspects received bail. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ISLSKE6CPFFY3JK2PVYJ6V7LJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The response said data for 2024 indicates the most common offence types committed by offenders on bail were public order/drinking (25 per cent); shop theft (23 per cent); simple possession (6 per cent), relating to persons in possession of a controlled drug for their own personal use; and criminal damage (5 per cent). ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Mary Lou McDonald says bail situation ‘cannot continue’ as 40,348 suspects were on bail last year "},"display_date":"2025-03-05T16:43:25.801Z","headlines":{"basic":"All criminal suspects ‘can’t be interned’, says Taoiseach, responding to ‘shocking’ bail figures","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"Y374RUUM65A7NIIG7ZCWHB4PT4","auth":{"1":"d332c5b605d8b4e4d629a1c5206cf3630adf65f0d5e9446107e1a5fd782c6f47"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/Y374RUUM65A7NIIG7ZCWHB4PT4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Oireachtas"},{"name":"Crime & Law"},{"name":"Politics"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/politics/oireachtas/2025/03/05/all-criminal-suspects-cant-be-interned-says-taoiseach-responding-to-shocking-bail-figures/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/politics/oireachtas","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":""}}},"name":"Oireachtas"}}}}],"count":10000,"_id":"3e48baac471e36eb41e03c059d1163ca2570b8e10814fdce54e8099469f9a027"},"expires":1743501000419,"lastModified":1743500699496}}};Fusion.layout="right-rail-advanced";Fusion.metas={"page-type":{"value":"section","html":false}};Fusion.outputType="default";Fusion.template="page/pr8Zs5gZoo6BYsPJs";Fusion.tree={"collection":"layouts","type":"right-rail-advanced","props":{"collection":"layouts","type":"right-rail-advanced","id":"right-rail-advanced","childProps":[{"collection":"sections","id":0},{"collection":"sections","id":1},{"collection":"sections","id":2},{"collection":"sections","id":3},{"collection":"sections","id":4},{"collection":"sections","id":5},{"collection":"sections","id":6},{"collection":"sections","id":7},{"collection":"sections","id":8}]},"children":[{"collection":"sections","props":{"collection":"sections","id":0},"children":[{"collection":"chains","type":"@wpmedia/header-nav-chain-block/header-nav-chain-block","props":{"collection":"chains","type":"@wpmedia/header-nav-chain-block/header-nav-chain-block","id":"c0fUkl9vih2Jpz","customFields":{"hierarchy":"hamburger-menu","logoAlignment":"center","showHorizontalSeperatorDots":true,"leftComponentMobile1":"menu","rightComponentMobile1":"custom","rightComponentCustomIndexMobile1":3,"menuComponentMobile1":"custom","menuComponentCustomIndexMobile1":2,"menuComponentMobile2":"queryly","leftComponentDesktop1":"queryly","leftComponentDesktop2":"menu","rightComponentDesktop1":"custom","rightComponentCustomIndexDesktop1":1,"rightComponentDesktop2":"custom","rightComponentCustomIndexDesktop2":3,"menuComponentDesktop1":"none","menuComponentDesktop2":"none"},"displayProperties":{}},"children":[{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/htmlbox-block/htmlbox","props":{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/htmlbox-block/htmlbox","id":"f0f1j0n1myTR7B9-0-0-0","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"HTML":"<iframe scrolling=\"no\" id=\"fw-desktop\" data-src=\"https://lw.foreca.com/v3/en/site/irishtimes/widget/?name=Dublin&id=102964574\" style=\"width: 85px; height: 40px; border:0; margin: 0; display: flex; align-items: center;\"></iframe>","pbInternal_cloneId":"f0f1j0n1myTR7B9"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"subscribe-button/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"subscribe-button/default","id":"f0fcuF3rugfL8OV-0-0-1","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"customTopHtml":"<iframe scrolling=\"no\" id=\"fw-mobile\" data-src=\"https://lw.foreca.com/v3/en/site/irishtimes/widget/?name=Dublin&id=102964574\" style=\"width: 85px; height: 40px; border:0; margin: 0;\"></iframe>"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"signin-subscribe/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"signin-subscribe/default","id":"f0fe6HNJvtOK8J1-0-0-2","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"loggedInNavigationTitle":"Logged-in-navigation"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}}]},{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/alert-bar-block/alert-bar","props":{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/alert-bar-block/alert-bar","id":"f0fsuWbGih2JYY","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fkkgpWcnR87JV","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-sections","contentConfigValues":{"includeSections":"/politics","feedSize":50,"feedOffset":0}},"sizeOverride":null,"itemsPerPage":50,"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":true,"fontSize":"Medium Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showDescription":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":false,"showDateTime":false,"showLiveStoryTimeline":false,"liveStoryEntriesCount":4,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"left","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"16:9","imagePositionMobile":"right","paywallStatus":"premium","bottomDividerDesktop":true,"bottomDividerTablet":true,"bottomDividerMobile":true,"lastBottomDividerDesktop":true,"lastBottomDividerTablet":true,"lastBottomDividerMobile":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}}]},{"collection":"sections","props":{"collection":"sections","id":1},"children":[{"collection":"features","type":"global/ads-block","props":{"collection":"features","type":"global/ads-block","id":"f0fBmOlq9ou36g5","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"adType":"970x250|970x90|728x90|320x50","lazyLoad":true,"displayAdLabel":true,"reserveSpace":false},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/section-title-block/section-title","props":{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/section-title-block/section-title","id":"f0fGpAHVih2J0T","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"sectionContentConfig":{"contentService":"site-service-hierarchy-it","contentConfigValues":{"hierarchy":"","sectionId":""}},"inheritGlobalContent":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","id":"f0fcxXYsrWsw1HQ","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","props":{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","id":"c0fCq0SOzvxD2R6","customFields":{"layout":"[[6,3,3],[12,6,6],[]]","column1":1,"column2":1,"column3":3,"column4":null,"column5":0,"showDividersDesktop":true,"showDividersTablet":true},"displayProperties":{}},"children":[{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fYm78vJjfbdJp","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-query","contentConfigValues":{"query":"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\/politics*) AND (subtype:\"Default\" OR \"live-story\")","size":10,"offset":0,"feedSize":10,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":true,"fontSize":"Large","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":true,"showDateTime":true,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"3:2","imagePositionMobile":"top","paywallStatus":"premium","offsetOverride":0,"showDescription":false,"bottomDividerDesktop":false,"bottomDividerTablet":false,"bottomDividerMobile":true,"sizeOverride":1,"showLiveStoryOverline":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fUsAt4jh2JpO","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-query","contentConfigValues":{"query":"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\/politics*) AND (subtype:\"Default\" OR \"live-story\")","size":10,"offset":1,"feedSize":10,"feedOffset":1}},"offsetOverride":0,"sizeOverride":5,"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":true,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":false,"showDateTime":false,"showLiveStoryTimeline":false,"liveStoryEntriesCount":4,"showImageDesktop":false,"imageRatioDesktop":"1:1","imagePositionDesktop":"left","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"1:1","imagePositionMobile":"left","paywallStatus":"premium","lastBottomDividerDesktop":false,"lastBottomDividerTablet":false,"lastBottomDividerMobile":true,"bottomDividerDesktop":true,"bottomDividerTablet":true,"bottomDividerMobile":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fkvjnfnRJG3K6","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-query","contentConfigValues":{"query":"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\/politics*) AND (subtype:\"Default\" OR \"live-story\")","size":10,"offset":0,"feedSize":10,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"showCloseButton":true,"fontSize":"Small","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"3:2","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"1:1","imagePositionMobile":"left","anyClickLP":false,"offsetOverride":6,"bottomDividerMobile":true,"bottomDividerTablet":true,"bottomDividerDesktop":true,"showDescription":false,"showByline":false,"showDateTime":false,"paywallStatus":"premium","isPremiumContent":true,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fkvjnfnRJG3K6","sizeOverride":1},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0f3Of4qxNyL87E","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-sections","contentConfigValues":{"includeSections":"/podcasts/inside-politics","feedSize":5,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"showCloseButton":true,"fontSize":"Small","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":true,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"3:2","imagePositionDesktop":"right","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"1:1","imagePositionMobile":"left","anyClickLP":false,"offsetOverride":0,"bottomDividerMobile":false,"bottomDividerTablet":false,"bottomDividerDesktop":false,"showDescription":false,"showByline":false,"showDateTime":false,"paywallStatus":"premium","isPremiumContent":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}}]},{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","id":"f0f7t4hBGxfr6RG","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0f7t4hBGxfr6RG"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"header/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"header/default","id":"f0fcd6HS7EsD73k","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"text":"OPINION & ANALYSIS","size":"Small","lightFontWeight":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","props":{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","id":"c0fS1GzzARQIcye","customFields":{"layout":"[[3,3,3,3],[6,6],[6,6]]","column1":1,"column2":1,"column3":1,"column4":1,"column5":0,"linkText":"","linkUrl":"","showDividersDesktop":true,"showDividersTablet":true,"showDividersMobile":true,"lazyLoadApp":false},"displayProperties":{}},"children":[{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fasaH3eBarcnn","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-query","contentConfigValues":{"query":"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\/politics*) AND (subtype:\"Analysis\" OR subtype:\"Opinion\" OR subtype:\"editors-note\" OR subtype:\"Columnist\" OR subtype:\"poll-template\" OR subtype:\"feature\")","size":5,"offset":0,"feedSize":5,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":false,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":true,"showDateTime":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"3:2","imagePositionMobile":"top","paywallStatus":"free","offsetOverride":0,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fasaH3eBarcnn","showDescription":false,"bottomDividerMobile":true,"isPremiumContent":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fiJqRRkOnvcfx","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-query","contentConfigValues":{"query":"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\/politics*) AND (subtype:\"Analysis\" OR subtype:\"Opinion\" OR subtype:\"editors-note\" OR subtype:\"Columnist\" OR subtype:\"poll-template\" OR subtype:\"feature\")","size":5,"offset":0,"feedSize":5,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":false,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":true,"showDateTime":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"3:2","imagePositionMobile":"top","paywallStatus":"premium","offsetOverride":1,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fiJqRRkOnvcfx","showDescription":false,"bottomDividerMobile":true,"isPremiumContent":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0flN61FfxlvcRv","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-query","contentConfigValues":{"query":"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\/politics*) AND (subtype:\"Analysis\" OR subtype:\"Opinion\" OR subtype:\"editors-note\" OR subtype:\"Columnist\" OR subtype:\"poll-template\" OR subtype:\"feature\")","size":5,"offset":0,"feedSize":5,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":true,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":true,"showDateTime":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"3:2","imagePositionMobile":"top","paywallStatus":"premium","offsetOverride":2,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0flN61FfxlvcRv","showDescription":false,"bottomDividerMobile":false,"isPremiumContent":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fmV2bsAEXb9mI","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-query","contentConfigValues":{"query":"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\\/politics*) AND (subtype:\"Analysis\" OR subtype:\"Opinion\" OR subtype:\"editors-note\" OR subtype:\"Columnist\" OR subtype:\"poll-template\" OR subtype:\"feature\")","size":5,"offset":0,"feedSize":5,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":true,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":true,"showDateTime":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"3:2","imagePositionMobile":"top","paywallStatus":"free","offsetOverride":3,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fmV2bsAEXb9mI","showDescription":false,"bottomDividerMobile":false,"isPremiumContent":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}}]},{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","id":"f0fqB5sePA9C12e","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fqB5sePA9C12e"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"header/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"header/default","id":"f0fjJL3A7Uy64jv","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"text":"INSIDE POLITICS PODCAST","size":"Small","lightFontWeight":true,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fjJL3A7Uy64jv","link":"/podcasts/inside-politics/"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","props":{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","id":"c0fd66LARZ964eh","customFields":{"layout":"[[3,3,3,3],[6,6],[6,6]]","column1":1,"column2":1,"column3":1,"column4":1,"column5":0,"linkText":"","linkUrl":"","showDividersDesktop":true,"showDividersTablet":true,"showDividersMobile":true,"lazyLoadApp":true,"pbInternal_cloneId":"c0fd66LARZ964eh"},"displayProperties":{}},"children":[{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fGRT32RZ964Q2","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-sections","contentConfigValues":{"includeSections":"/podcasts/inside-politics","excludeSections":"","feedSize":5,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":false,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":true,"showDateTime":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"3:2","imagePositionMobile":"top","paywallStatus":"free","offsetOverride":1,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fasaH3eBarcnn","showDescription":false,"bottomDividerMobile":true,"isPremiumContent":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fSWajhRZ964ay","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-sections","contentConfigValues":{"includeSections":"/podcasts/inside-politics","feedSize":5,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":false,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":true,"showDateTime":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"3:2","imagePositionMobile":"top","paywallStatus":"premium","offsetOverride":2,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fiJqRRkOnvcfx","showDescription":false,"bottomDividerMobile":true,"isPremiumContent":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fG6EblRZ9646m","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-sections","contentConfigValues":{"includeSections":"/podcasts/inside-politics","feedSize":5,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":true,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":true,"showDateTime":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"3:2","imagePositionMobile":"top","paywallStatus":"premium","offsetOverride":3,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0flN61FfxlvcRv","showDescription":false,"bottomDividerMobile":false,"isPremiumContent":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0f1PsRoRZ964gX","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-sections","contentConfigValues":{"includeSections":"/podcasts/inside-politics","excludeSections":"","feedSize":5,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":true,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":true,"showDateTime":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"3:2","imagePositionMobile":"top","paywallStatus":"free","offsetOverride":4,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fmV2bsAEXb9mI","showDescription":false,"bottomDividerMobile":false,"isPremiumContent":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}}]},{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","id":"f0fT42yi4eBm1od","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fT42yi4eBm1od"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"global/ads-block","props":{"collection":"features","type":"global/ads-block","id":"f0fO8wbec9yW2OO","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"adType":"970x250|970x90|728x90|300x250","lazyLoad":true,"displayAdLabel":true,"reserveSpace":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","id":"f0fx4KBQlOXR9tW","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fx4KBQlOXR9tW"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"header/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"header/default","id":"f0flPxnheQVx6T8","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"text":"OIREACHTAS","size":"Small","pbInternal_cloneId":"f0flPxnheQVx6T8","lightFontWeight":true,"link":"/politics/oireachtas/"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","props":{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","id":"c0fw3YZNqQGI5sa","customFields":{"layout":"[[3,5,2,2],[12,12,6,6],[12,12,6,6]]","column1":1,"column2":1,"column3":1,"column4":1,"column5":0,"linkText":"More Oireachtas >","linkUrl":"","pbInternal_cloneId":"c0fw3YZNqQGI5sa","showDividersDesktop":true,"showDividersTablet":true,"showDividersMobile":true,"lazyLoadApp":true},"displayProperties":{}},"children":[{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fgowVdqQGI57v","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-query","contentConfigValues":{"query":"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\"/politics/oireachtas\") AND (subtype:default)","size":5,"offset":0,"feedSize":5,"feedOffset":0}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":false,"fontSize":"Medium","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":true,"showDateTime":true,"showImageDesktop":false,"imageRatioDesktop":"3:2","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"3:2","imagePositionMobile":"top","paywallStatus":"premium","offsetOverride":0,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fasaH3eBarcnn","showDescription":true,"bottomDividerMobile":true,"bottomDividerTablet":false,"bottomDividerDesktop":false,"isPremiumContent":true,"sizeOverride":1},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fQVinqqQGI521","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-query","contentConfigValues":{"query":"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\"/politics/oireachtas\") AND (subtype:default)","size":5,"offset":1,"feedSize":5,"feedOffset":1}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":false,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":false,"showDateTime":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":true,"imageRatioMobile":"1:1","imagePositionMobile":"left","paywallStatus":"premium","offsetOverride":0,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fiJqRRkOnvcfx","showDescription":false,"bottomDividerMobile":true,"isPremiumContent":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fb0mjwqQGI57l","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-query","contentConfigValues":{"query":"(taxonomy.primary_section._id:\"/politics/oireachtas\") AND (subtype:default)","size":5,"offset":2,"feedSize":5,"feedOffset":2}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":false,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":false,"showDateTime":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":false,"imageRatioMobile":"1:1","imagePositionMobile":"left","paywallStatus":"premium","offsetOverride":0,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0flN61FfxlvcRv","showDescription":false,"bottomDividerMobile":false},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"flex-promo/default","id":"f0fCBcgBqQGI5Vs","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"itemContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-query","contentConfigValues":{"query":"taxonomy.primary_section._id:\"/politics/oireachtas\" AND subtype:default","size":5,"offset":3,"feedSize":5,"feedOffset":3}},"allowSpeechKit":false,"overlineAlignment":"Left","showCloseButton":false,"fontSize":"Small","headlineWeight":"Bold","headlineTextAlignment":"text-align_left","showHeadline":true,"showOverline":false,"showByline":false,"showDateTime":false,"showImageDesktop":true,"imageRatioDesktop":"16:9","imagePositionDesktop":"top","showImageMobile":false,"imageRatioMobile":"1:1","imagePositionMobile":"left","paywallStatus":"premium","offsetOverride":0,"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fVQZemXpFocmM","showDescription":false,"bottomDividerMobile":false},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}}]},{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"divider/default","id":"f0fqGP7ahITQ2Vk","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fqGP7ahITQ2Vk"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}}]},{"collection":"sections","props":{"collection":"sections","id":2},"children":[{"collection":"chains","type":"sticky-chain","props":{"collection":"chains","type":"sticky-chain","id":"c0f0uycORn5C30S","customFields":{"stickyItem":3},"displayProperties":{}},"children":[{"collection":"features","type":"header/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"header/default","id":"f0fzqX8KXzt67l1","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"text":"MOST READ","size":"Small","pbInternal_cloneId":"f0fzqX8KXzt67l1","link":"/most-read/","lightFontWeight":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/numbered-list-block/numbered-list","props":{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/numbered-list-block/numbered-list","id":"f0frhwExPfj57BM","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"listContentConfig":{"contentService":"most-popular","contentConfigValues":{"size":5,"section":""}},"showHeadline":true,"showImage":true,"lazyLoad":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"global/ads-block","props":{"collection":"features","type":"global/ads-block","id":"f0fYAeOZdspl1HV","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"adType":"300x250|300x600","lazyLoad":true,"displayAdLabel":true,"reserveSpace":false},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}}]}]},{"collection":"sections","props":{"collection":"sections","id":3},"children":[{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","props":{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","id":"c0fJeKg7YWPuaNv","customFields":{"layout":"[[12],[12],[]]","column1":2,"column2":0,"column3":0,"column4":0,"column5":0,"lazyLoad":false,"lazyLoadApp":true},"displayProperties":{}},"children":[{"collection":"features","type":"Newsletter-Signup/default","props":{"collection":"features","type":"Newsletter-Signup/default","id":"f0f9dhJxdvZU2hF","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"inheritGlobalContent":true,"imagePos":"left","lazyLoad":true,"sectionId":"","bottomDividerDesktop":true,"topDividerDesktop":false,"topDividerTablet":true,"topDividerMobile":true,"bottomDividerTablet":true,"bottomDividerMobile":true},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/results-list-block/results-list","props":{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/results-list-block/results-list","id":"f0fsovs57StE5mt","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"listContentConfig":{"contentService":"story-feed-sections","contentConfigValues":{"includeSections":"/politics","feedSize":20,"feedOffset":0}},"showHeadline":true,"showImage":true,"showDescription":false,"showByline":false,"showDate":false,"lazyLoad":false},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}}]}]},{"collection":"sections","props":{"collection":"sections","id":4},"children":[]},{"collection":"sections","props":{"collection":"sections","id":5},"children":[{"collection":"features","type":"global/ads-block","props":{"collection":"features","type":"global/ads-block","id":"f0fV3vJut2z6cu5","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"adType":"Fluid","lazyLoad":true,"displayAdLabel":false,"reserveSpace":false},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}}]},{"collection":"sections","props":{"collection":"sections","id":6},"children":[]},{"collection":"sections","props":{"collection":"sections","id":7},"children":[]},{"collection":"sections","props":{"collection":"sections","id":8},"children":[{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","props":{"collection":"chains","type":"flex-chain","id":"c0f8fxFdQNlC7dB","customFields":{"layout":"[[12],[12],[]]","column1":4,"column2":1,"column3":1,"column4":1,"column5":1,"lazyLoad":null,"linkText":null,"linkUrl":null,"showDividersDesktop":null,"showDividersTablet":null,"showDividersMobile":null},"displayProperties":{}},"children":[{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/htmlbox-block/htmlbox","props":{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/htmlbox-block/htmlbox","id":"f0fbv2KMxkeL6rG-8-0-0","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"HTML":"<style>\n/*Override copyright*/\n.copyright-column p,\n.copyright,\n/*Footer*/\nfooter .footer-header,\nfooter .footer-section ul,\n[aria-label=\"our-partners\"],\n[aria-label=\"our-partners\"] span,\n.b-links-bar span,\nfooter span {\n font-family: Roboto, sans-serif;\n color: #575757;\n}\n\n/* Change the order in the footer*/\nfooter .legacy-footer-row {\n position: relative;\n}\n\n/*Hide the logo from the footer*/\nfooter .primaryLogo,\nfooter hr {\n display: none!important;\n}\n\n/* Hide the top border in the footer*/\nfooter .section-separator {\n border-top: none;\n}\n\nfooter .socialBtn-container,\nfooter .socialBtn-container a {\n border: none;\n}\n\n/*Copyright*/\n.copyright-column {\n width: 82%!important;\n}\n\n.copyright-column p {\n text-align: right!important;\n}\n\n.copyright {\n font-size: small;\n padding: 0;\n}\n\n/* Style our partners*/\n[aria-label=\"our-partners\"] {\n background-color: #f1f1f1;\n padding-top: 0.75rem;\n padding-bottom: 0.75rem;\n margin-bottom: 1rem;\n}\n\n[aria-label=\"our-partners\"] hr,\n {\n display: none;\n}\n\n[aria-label=\"our-partners\"]:before {\n font-size: small;\n content: 'Our partners: ';\n font-weight: bold;\n color: #575757;\n text-transform: uppercase;\n}\n\n\n/*Mobile styles*/\n@media screen and (max-width: 767px) {\n footer {\n margin-bottom: 0 !important;\n }\n\n footer .layout-section>* {\n margin-bottom: 0;\n }\n\n .legacy-footer-row {\n display:flex;\n flex-direction: row;\n /*background-color:#f1f1f1;*/\n width: 100vw;\n position: relative;\n left: -20px;\n padding-top: 2rem;\n }\n\n .footer-header {\n text-align: center;\n }\n\n .footer-item {\n text-align: center;\n font-size: 14px;\n }\n\n [aria-label=\"our-partners\"] {\n display: block;\n text-align: center;\n color: #000;\n margin-bottom: 0;\n }\n\n [aria-label=\"our-partners\"]:before {\n text-align: center;\n display: block;\n }\n\n [aria-label=\"our-partners\"] .b-links-menu {\n display: flex;\n flex-direction: column;\n text-align: center;\n visibility: hidden;\n height: 40px;\n }\n\n\n [aria-label=\"our-partners\"] .b-links-menu a {\n visibility: visible;\n }\n\n .apps {\n padding-top: 0.75rem;\n border-top: 2px solid #000;\n border-bottom: 2px solid #000;\n padding-bottom: 1rem;\n }\n[aria-label=\"our-partners\"] .c-separator\n {\n --separator-content: var(--c-separator-content, none);\n display: block;\n margin-bottom: 0.2rem;\n}\n .static-footer-links {\n background-color: #333;\n padding: 1rem;\n display: block !important;\n margin-bottom: 0 !important;\n }\n\n .static-footer-links .static-footer-links-item {\n border-right: none;\n }\n\n .static-footer-links a {\n color: #fff !important;\n border-right: none;\n padding: 0.5rem;\n }\n\n}\n\n</style>"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/footer-block/footer","props":{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/footer-block/footer","id":"f0flUJg92ynm6Pm-8-0-1","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"navigationConfig":{"contentService":"site-service-hierarchy","contentConfigValues":{"hierarchy":"footer"}},"lazyLoad":false},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/htmlbox-block/htmlbox","props":{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/htmlbox-block/htmlbox","id":"f0fcSRSNS9zi6b4-8-0-2","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"HTML":"<div class=\"apps text-align_center\" style=\"margin:0 auto;text-align:center;\">\n <span class=\"font_bold\" style=\"display:block;\"><b>Download the app</b></span>\n <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://apps.apple.com/ie/developer/the-irish-times-ltd/id365544597\">\n <img alt=\"Download on the App Store\" src=\"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BJJKNJJHDJDGDDODHEER7FDH44.png\" width=\"108\" height=\"34\" loading=\"lazy\"></a>\n \n <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://play.google.com/store/apps/developer?id=The+Irish+Times+Ltd\">\n <img alt=\"Download on Google Play\" src=\"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/T2XGUGDSUZCOZAYIQEKG2TWML4.png\" width=\"108\" height=\"34\" loading=\"lazy\"></a>\n</div>\n<style>\n.apps img{\nmargin-top:0.55rem;\n}\n.apps span{position:relative;display:block;margin-bottom:0;padding-bottom:0;color:#575757;font-size:1rem; }\n</style>"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}},{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/links-bar-block/links-bar","props":{"collection":"features","type":"@wpmedia/links-bar-block/links-bar","id":"f0fUmIxk2ynm6t2-8-0-3","contentConfig":{"contentService":"","contentConfigValues":{},"inherit":true},"customFields":{"navigationConfig":{"contentService":"site-service-hierarchy-it","contentConfigValues":{"hierarchy":"our-partners","sectionId":""}},"ariaLabel":"our-partners"},"displayProperties":{},"localEdits":{},"variants":{}}}]}]}]};Fusion.spa=false;Fusion.spaEnabled=false;</script><script type="application/javascript"> setTimeout(function () { var permutiveSdk = permutive || window.permutive; if (permutiveSdk) { var cookieArr = document.cookie.split(';'); for (var i = 0; i < cookieArr.length; i++) { var cookiePair = cookieArr[i].split('='); if ('blaize_tracking_id' === cookiePair[0].trim()) { var blaizeTrackingIdCookie = decodeURIComponent(cookiePair[1]); permutiveSdk.identify(blaizeTrackingIdCookie); break; } } } }, 100); setTimeout(function () { var permutiveSdk = permutive || window.permutive; if (permutiveSdk) { permutiveSdk.segments(function (segments) { var retrieveSegmentsXhr = new (XMLHttpRequest || ActiveXObject)('MSXML2.XMLHTTP.3.0'); retrieveSegmentsXhr.open('POST', '/plugins/public/permutive/update-segments', true); retrieveSegmentsXhr.setRequestHeader('Content-type', 'application/json'); retrieveSegmentsXhr.withCredentials = true; retrieveSegmentsXhr.send(JSON.stringify(segments)); }); } }, 1000); </script></body></html>