Protests are being planned across Europe amid growing opposition to the EU–Mercosur trade deal, with farmers, environmental groups, and activists warning the agreement could undermine European agriculture, weaken food standards, and accelerate environmental damage. Critics argue the deal prioritises corporate trade interests over local economies, with particular concern in Ireland over its potential impact on the farming sector.

A 40-year-old woman from Tor an Rí, Balgaddy, Lucan, named Sandra Barry, has been sentenced to six months in prison after pleading guilty to sending threatening online messages about then-Tánaiste Simon Harris. The charges were under the 2020 Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act.

EU leaders meet in Brussels today with the situation in Ukraine set to dominate discussions. Taoiseach Micheál Martin is attending the European Council as leaders review ongoing financial, military, and political support for Ukraine amid continued conflict and regional tensions.

Aaron Joyce, Newswire, L.T.T Media; Newsdesk; December 18, 2025

Dáil Éireann has narrowly rejected a motion to restore a Bill aimed at decriminalising abortion and removing the mandatory three-day waiting period, following a closely fought vote that exposed deep divisions across party lines. Despite a free vote being permitted, several senior Government figures opposed the move, with the motion ultimately defeated by just two votes.

The outcome has reignited debate around conscience voting, women’s healthcare, and legislative continuity following the dissolution of the previous Dáil.

Ireland is facing a housing and homelessness emergency that can no longer be explained away by temporary pressures or isolated failures. From record-breaking homelessness figures to an overstretched housing system struggling to cope with rapid population growth, the reality on the ground is stark. Families, workers, and vulnerable individuals are being pushed to the margins, while political responses continue to lag behind lived experience.

This crisis is not driven by a single factor. Years of underbuilding, rising rents, and systemic policy failures have collided with unprecedented immigration numbers, placing further strain on an already fragile housing infrastructure. Honest discussion, grounded in verified data and human impact, is no longer optional—it is essential.

Ireland now stands at a crossroads: continue managing symptoms, or confront the causes with transparency, accountability, and urgency.