Stories from Dublin · Ireland

Boxer Katie Taylor stated that fighting at Croke Park is her preferred location for her final professional bout. She described the prospect of ending her career there as an absolute dream. Taylor noted that she has fought globally and wants to wrap up her career in Ireland.

Irish agriculture contractors and 1,500 farmers will access fuel cost relief through a new scheme. The government estimates savings of approximately 270 to 274 euros per 1,000 litres of green diesel. These payments are scheduled to be accessible from now until the end of July. The measure combines with previous excise cuts announced in a prior package. The Irish government announced a 20 cent reduction in green diesel prices for contractors and farmers. Some farmers and contractors expressed concern that potential price increases next week could offset the support package. The announcement comes as the silent season commences on farms.

Minister Martin Hayden announced a 100 million euro scheme aimed at supporting the agricultural sector. The government estimates approximately 120,000 farmers and 1,500 agriculture contractors will be able to access the funds. The announcement follows discussions regarding preventing inflationary knock-on effects in the construction sector. Minister Darro O'Brien announced a 500 million euro scheme to support approximately 120,000 farmers and 15,000 contractors facing high fuel prices. Financial support for contractors can be applied for through the state, with payments expected by the end of June. The scheme aims to assist with soaring fuel costs and improve food supply speed and affordability for supermarkets. The Irish government announced a €500 million package to support farmers, agricultural contractors, and the haulage sector facing rising fuel costs.

Teachtaí Dála (TDs) expressed concern regarding approximately 40 million euro in cash stored at the Gartha estate. The committee identified risks related to the high value of the cash and a lack of central oversight for cash held as evidence. The report also cited a lack of coordination with Irish policing and a failure to meet Gartha recruitment targets. The committee requested improvements within the next nine months.

The Irish government plans to begin winding down support for approximately 16,000 Ukrainians currently residing in state-sponsored accommodation across the country. The move involves reducing the financial supports paid to or offered to these individuals. The policy change targets those living in state-provided housing. The decision will be debated by officials. The move comes as a bank holiday weekend approaches.

The Department of Children will amend an Act to include first cousins in a child identification programme. This follows updated scientific advice from Forensic Science Ireland confirming that including cousins would enhance the identification process. The legislation aims to assist in identifying remains, such as those believed to be at the Intume site. The move aims to address existing gaps in the legislation regarding familial recognition. Approximately 30 DNA samples are being sent to Forensic Science Ireland to assist in identifying remains. Officials are evaluating if this increased volume of samples will improve identification capabilities.

Europol and the Criminal Assets Bureau seized €30 million in cryptocurrency during a weekend operation.

A report by consultants Idykan states that approximately €289 million in potential lottery sales have been diverted to bookmakers due to lottery betting. This diversion reduces potential funding for good causes by around €81 million. The report was discussed on RTÉ Radio 1. The chairperson of the Irish Bookmakers Association reported that 81 million euro is being diverted from Irish good causes due to lottery betting. The move aims to address concerns regarding the practice of betting on lottery outcomes. The findings were presented by the National Lottery.

Ireland is set to launch a new voluntary return program for Ukrainian refugees. Approximately 1.2 million Ukrainians have already returned from Europe to Ukraine, according to the report. The program aims to move away from current commercial arrangements. Approximately 16,000 people will have their state-supported accommodation withdrawn starting in August. The government aims to establish a formal program to assist Ukrainians in moving out of state-supported housing. Officials stated they aim to avoid a "cliff edge" for those currently in accommodation, noting that people are being asked to leave certain accommodations by the end of this year. The government intends to work with individuals to ensure supports are available before transitions occur. A sub-cabinet meeting of justice was held yesterday to discuss the process.

The Irish government is experiencing tensions within its coalition regarding proposed legislation for a register of Airbnb and other short-term properties. The laws aim to free more properties for the rental market. The legislation was scheduled to go before the cabinet today, according to reports from the Irish Independent and Mary Regan. This comes during the same week a hospital was originally due to be handed over to the state.