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
Massive Tobacco Haul at Dublin Port: Revenue Seizes ~13 Million Cigarettes Worth €12.3 Million
Revenue officers have seized approximately 13 million cigarettes at Dublin Port in a major smuggling interception, uncovering a haul valued at €12.3 million and representing a potential €9.6 million loss to the Exchequer. The illicit shipment, which arrived via Rotterdam, is now the subject of an ongoing investigation as authorities continue efforts to disrupt organised tobacco smuggling networks.
Ireland’s Press Freedom at a Crossroads: Why Journalists Are Right to Sound the Alarm Over New Garda Powers
Ireland is edging toward a dangerous precedent. Proposed new Garda powers would allow the State to seize journalists’ phones and digital devices first, with claims of press privilege only examined after the damage is done. Media organisations warn this risks exposing confidential sources, chilling investigative reporting, and weakening one of democracy’s core safeguards. Journalists are not resisting accountability — they are defending the public’s right to know.
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.
Historic 150‑Year‑Old Scut Fagan’s Pub Destroyed in Blaze in Moynalvey
A 150‑year‑old landmark of rural Meath is gone. Scut Fagan’s Pub, a cornerstone of Moynalvey’s identity and one of the region’s last true traditional pubs, was destroyed in a sudden early‑morning fire on New Year’s Eve. Fire crews from across the county battled the blaze for hours, but the building — rich with history, character, and community memory — could not be saved. As investigators begin their technical examination, locals are left reeling from the loss of a cultural institution that had stood for generations.
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
Ireland Faces Demographic Turning Point as Birth Rates Continue to Fall
Ireland is entering 2026 facing a growing demographic challenge as birth rates continue to fall well below replacement level, prompting warnings of a potential “vicious downward cycle” of population ageing, workforce contraction, and mounting pressure on public services. Advisory bodies, including the National Economic and Social Council, caution that without decisive policy action on housing, childcare, and family supports, the long term economic and social consequences could become increasingly difficult to reverse.
Aaron Joyce, Newswire, LTT Media; Newsdesk; 31 December 2025
Irish Economy Set for Robust Growth in 2026, But Significant Risks Remain
Ireland’s economy is forecast to deliver robust growth in 2026, with GDP expected to expand by around 3 per cent, placing the country among the strongest-performing economies in Europe. The outlook is underpinned by solid domestic demand, continued export strength particularly in pharmaceuticals and sustained employment levels, according to economic forecasts reported by The Irish Times.
However, economists caution that significant risks remain, including global trade uncertainty, housing and infrastructure constraints, and the potential impact of inflation on household incomes. While headline growth remains strong, analysts warn that structural pressures could temper the benefits felt across the wider economy.
Aaron Joyce, Newswire, LTT Media; Newsdesk; 31 December 2025
Tusla Chair - Pat Rabbitte Resigns
The chairperson of Tusla, Ireland’s Child and Family Agency, has stepped down after seven years in the role, bringing a significant leadership chapter to a close at a time of sustained scrutiny of the agency. The departure follows the completion of a second statutory term and comes amid ongoing challenges facing Tusla, including child protection backlogs, staffing pressures, and repeated concerns raised by courts, inspectors, and advocacy groups.
The change in board leadership is expected to sharpen focus on governance, accountability, and reform, as Tusla continues to manage rising demand for services and heightened public attention on the State’s child safeguarding framework.
Aaron Joyce, Newswire, LTT Media; Newsdesk; 31 December 2025
Irish Tourism Sees 6% Decline in Overseas Visitors for 2025
Ireland’s tourism sector recorded a challenging year in 2025, with overseas visitor numbers falling by 6% to an estimated 6.16 million, according to the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation. The downturn is expected to result in a €685 million hit to the economy, as rising costs, weaker air access from Europe and the UK, and competitiveness concerns continue to place pressure on the industry, despite stronger performance from North American markets.
Irish and British Barristers Oppose UK Government Plan to Reduce Jury Trials
Barristers from Ireland and across the UK have voiced strong opposition to proposals by the British government to significantly reduce the use of jury trials in England and Wales. Legal bodies warn that limiting jury trials to only the most serious offences risks undermining a fundamental pillar of the justice system and may fail to address the root causes of court backlogs, including underfunding and systemic delays.
28-Year-Old Woman Dies After Lisnaskea Road Traffic Collision
A 28-year-old woman has died following a road traffic collision in Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh, that occurred earlier this month. The woman sustained serious injuries in the crash on 5 December and later passed away in hospital, prompting a renewed appeal from police for witnesses and dashcam footage as investigations continue.
Prison Committee Urged Justice Minister to Address Conditions for Women After TV Documentary
The Oireachtas Justice Committee has written to the Minister for Justice expressing concern over the treatment and conditions of women in Irish prisons, following a television documentary that highlighted serious issues within the system. The move has renewed calls for stronger oversight and reforms tailored to the specific needs of female prisoners.