Experts Warn Pediatric Admissions for Mental Health Crises in Ireland Are Under-Reported and Under-Resourced
A recent paper published in the Irish Medical Journal highlights serious concerns regarding the treatment and documentation of children and adolescents admitted to paediatric wards for acute mental health crises across Ireland.
According to the authors—comprising consultant and senior registrar child psychiatrists from Children’s Health Ireland, CAMHS, and senior paediatricians across 11 counties, alongside university medical academics in Dublin, Galway, Cork, and Limerick—these admissions are not regulated by the Mental Health Commission.
“Ultimately, this lack of documentation and regulation contributes to the systematic overlooking and undercounting of what is arguably the most unwell children and young people with acute mental illness within Ireland’s mental health framework,” the paper states.
Man in His 80s Dies After Getting into Difficulty in Stormy Water Off Dublin Coast
A man in his 80s has died after getting into difficulty in stormy waters off the south Dublin coast. Emergency services were alerted to the incident at the Great South Wall in Poolbeg on Saturday afternoon, where the man was recovered from rough sea conditions and pronounced dead at the scene. Gardaí have notified the Coroner, and a post-mortem examination is to take place as authorities again urge the public to avoid coastal areas during severe weather.
The Mercosur Deal: A Direct Threat to European Farmers and Democratic Accountability
The EU–Mercosur trade deal represents a fundamental threat to European farmers, food standards, and democratic accountability. By opening EU markets to agricultural imports produced under weaker environmental and welfare rules, the agreement creates an uneven playing field that places family farms at risk. The decision to refer the deal to the European Court is a necessary step in challenging a trade policy that many believe sacrifices rural communities and food security in favour of multinational interests.
Aaron Joyce, Newswire, L.T.T Media; January 21, 2026
Two Questions Stirring National Debate: Time Limits on Justice and Taxing the Carer’s Allowance
Two questions raised today on The Niall Boylan Show have sparked widespread public discussion: should Ireland impose time limits within the criminal justice system, and should the Carer’s Allowance be taxed at all? Both issues touch on deep concerns about fairness, accountability and how the State treats victims, defendants and unpaid carers. As frustration grows over court delays and the cost-of-living burden on families, these are not radical questions — they are timely ones, reflecting a broader demand for systems that work more fairly and efficiently for the people they serve.
Irish Defence Forces Warned They Will Miss Recruitment Targets by Years Amid Security Challenges
Ireland’s Defence Forces are facing a deepening recruitment and retention crisis, with official projections now showing that key staffing targets will be missed by several years. Despite increased applications and new training infrastructure, chronic issues around pay, conditions and career progression continue to drive trained personnel out of the military. As international security pressures mount, critics warn that the State’s failure to meet its own defence commitments leaves Ireland increasingly exposed.
Aaron Joyce, Newswire, L.T.T Media; January 20, 2026
Enoch Burke Returns to Westmeath School for Second Time Less Than 48 Hours After Prison Release
Enoch Burke has returned to Wilson’s Hospital School in Co Westmeath for the second time in less than 48 hours after his release from prison, despite an active High Court order barring him from the premises. The repeated breach places Mr Burke at immediate risk of re-imprisonment, with the school seeking urgent court action.
Aaron Joyce, Newswire, L.T.T Media; Newsdesk; January 16, 2026
Civil Servants Paying “Knock‑Down” Rents in Phoenix Park as Housing Pressures Mount Nationwide
Several civil servants, including retired officials, are living in State-owned homes in Dublin’s Phoenix Park at rents far below market value, some as low as €670 per year. The arrangement has sparked criticism over fairness, transparency, and public asset management, especially as Dublin rents continue to surge. Opposition politicians are calling for urgent review and reform of these preferential deals.
Aaron Joyce, Newswire, L.T.T Media; Newsdesk; January 15, 2026
Waterford Among Nation’s Highest for Burglary Court Appearances as Broader Crime Trends Shift
Waterford has emerged as the fifth-highest county in Ireland for people appearing in court over burglary offences, with 54 cases recorded in the first nine months of 2025. Nationally, 1,187 individuals faced District Courts for burglary, with repeat offending a significant factor. Experts stress the need for community vigilance, enhanced prevention, and policy review to tackle persistent property crime.
Aaron Joyce, Newswire, L.T.T Media; Newsdesk; January 15, 2026
Fisherman Dies Following Serious Incident at Sea off Kerry Coast
Fisherman Dies Following Serious Incident at Sea off Kerry Coast
A fisherman has died following a serious incident at sea off the coast of County Kerry, prompting a large-scale emergency response involving the Irish Coast Guard and international maritime authorities.
The incident occurred at approximately 9am on Thursday morning, when a fishing vessel registered in Spain encountered difficulties in challenging sea conditions.
Irish Garda Release Alarming Road Safety Statistics for Christmas Period
An Garda Síochána has released stark road safety statistics from its Christmas enforcement operation, revealing dozens of fatalities, more than 70 serious collisions, and widespread dangerous driving across Ireland’s roads. Nearly 26,500 drivers were detected speeding, hundreds were arrested for drink or drug driving, and thousands of vehicles were seized, underscoring persistent and deadly risks during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Irish State Forced to Confront Illegal Biometric Database as Digital ID Expansion Looms
Ireland’s Digital ID Expansion Raises Alarms Over Privacy and Control
A recent investigation revealed that 70% of the Irish population had their biometric data collected unlawfully through the Public Services Card (PSC). Now, the government is linking this data to MyGovID, an online identity system that critics warn is insecure, legally questionable, and ripe for abuse.
Privacy advocates are calling for voluntary participation, lawful biometric processing, independent audits, and offline alternatives. Citizens are also urged to file complaints with the Data Protection Commission to have their biometric data deleted.
As digital identity and access merge, experts caution that freedom itself may become conditional.
Aaron Joyce, Newswire, L.T.T Media; Newsdesk; 7 January 2026
AI “Girlfriend” Apps Raising Serious Child Safety Concerns in Ireland
Children in Ireland are being increasingly exposed to AI-powered “girlfriend” porn apps, which experts warn are normalising sexual violence and grooming young users. Researchers and children’s charities say these apps, widely promoted online, can shape harmful attitudes toward consent and relationships, calling for criminal liability for executives behind such platforms. Recent regulatory moves in the UK and international research underscore the urgency of stronger oversight to protect children from these digital threats.
Sharp Rise in Work-Related Deaths in Ireland During 2025, HSA Provisional Figures Show
Provisional figures published by the Health and Safety Authority show a stark rise in workplace fatalities in Ireland during 2025, with 58 people killed in work-related incidents. This represents a 61 per cent increase on the 36 deaths recorded in 2024 and has raised serious concerns about safety standards across multiple sectors. The agricultural and construction industries were among the hardest hit, prompting renewed calls from unions and safety advocates for stronger enforcement, improved training, and urgent action to prevent further loss of life.
Thousands of Short-Term Lets Lie Empty Amid Record Homelessness in Ireland: Policy, Data, and Debate
As Ireland enters 2026 with homelessness at record levels, new data has reignited debate over the role of short-term lettings in the housing crisis. Tens of thousands of properties remain tied up on platforms such as Airbnb, many with low occupancy rates, while more than 16,000 people, including over 5,000, children rely on emergency accommodation. With Government plans to introduce a national register for short-term lets later this year, questions remain over enforcement, compliance, and whether current measures will meaningfully return homes to the long-term rental market.
Ireland Invests €100 Million in Overseas Development and Humanitarian Efforts
Ireland has announced a major €100 million funding package for ten Irish non-governmental organisations engaged in overseas development and humanitarian work, reinforcing the State’s commitment to international aid. The funding, unveiled by Ministers Helen McEntee and Neale Richmond, will support projects across education, healthcare, nutrition and emergency relief in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions, with Irish NGOs operating in more than 40 countries set to benefit.
Road Deaths Rise to Highest Level in Over a Decade as RSA and Garda Sound Alarm
Road Deaths Rise to Highest Level in Over a Decade as RSA and Garda Sound Alarm
Ireland’s roads have claimed the lives of 190 people in 2025, marking the highest annual death toll in more than ten years, according to provisional figures released by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána. The increase represents a sharp and troubling reversal of the long-term downward trend in road fatalities.
Of the total, 185 deaths occurred on public roads across 174 fatal collisions, an 8% increase on the 171 deaths recorded in 2024. Authorities have described the figures as “deeply concerning”, particularly given the disproportionate impact on vulnerable road users.
Citywest: From Years of Losses to €17.5m Profit — And a Community Left Asking Who Really Benefits
Citywest wasn’t always the State’s most profitable accommodation hub in fact, the hotel spent years struggling to stay afloat before the IPAS contract transformed its fortunes. The same complex that once hosted global conferences, weddings, and major tourism events was operating at a loss, shifting ownership structures and cutting services long before the State stepped in.
That sudden reversal from financial instability to multimillion‑euro profits under a government contract has raised sharp questions about who truly benefited. While the State now owns the site outright, the surrounding community has lost one of the region’s largest hotels, a major employer, and a cornerstone of local tourism. Businesses that once relied on conference traffic and hotel guests have been left with empty rooms, empty tables, and no clear plan for what comes next.
As profits rise and transparency lags, residents are asking the question no one in government seems eager to answer:
Was Citywest rescued for the public good or was a failing private asset simply absorbed at the community’s expense?
Gambling Spend Surges in Ireland Amid Cost-of-Living Pressures
Gambling in Ireland is on the rise, with spending up more than 20% in October 2025. Experts warn that cost-of-living pressures are driving some to bet in hopes of quick financial relief, a risky trend with serious public health implications. New regulations are set to be enforced in 2026, aiming to curb gambling harms and protect vulnerable consumers.
Aaron Joyce, Newswire, LTT Media; Newsdesk; 1 January 2026
Budget 2026: Key Measures Coming Into Effect Today in Ireland
Ireland’s Budget 2026 brings a mix of relief and caution for households and businesses alike, with several measures kicking in immediately. From adjustments to tax thresholds and social welfare increases, to sector-specific supports, the budget aims to balance economic growth with inflation pressures. Experts warn, however, that while some families may see a short term boost, underlying cost of living challenges remain a concern for the year ahead.
Aaron Joyce, Newswire, LTT Media; Newsdesk; 01 January 2026