Stories from Dublin · Ireland

The Irish Minister for Social Protection is reviewing a proposal for a free transport scheme to support individuals fleeing domestic violence. The initiative stems from a government program commitment and legislation introduced by Social Democrat Senator Patricia Stevenson in the Seanad last October. The scheme would not be means-tested and would not have a set monetary limit, according to the report. Support would be based on the specific needs of the individuals involved. The program is scheduled to take effect on May 5, 2026.

The Irish government announced a policy shift to phase out tourist accommodation currently housing 16,000 people from Ukraine. Officials stated the ARP was intended as a temporary measure to facilitate putting properties back on the market. The source noted that over 50% of Ukrainians have already secured accommodation. Ireland is proposing to remove supports and accommodation for Ukrainians fleeing war. Minister Kolombrofi stated that those currently living in the housing will not face a cliff-edge situation. The policy specifically affects those who arrived in Ireland before March 2020. Confidential documents indicate that Ukrainian refugees in Ireland must prove they are self-sufficient to remain in the country and access a pathway to citizenship. The Department of Housing is currently assessing if modular homes used by 2,640 Ukrainians can be utilized by the department in the future.

Half of the rooms at the new National Children's Hospital have not been completed yet. The figures were released to the Irish Daily Mail. This report follows the week the hospital was originally due to be handed over to the state.

Emergency services are responding to a fire on Eden Quay in Dublin this morning. The incident has caused traffic disruptions on Eden Quay and Marlborough Street. No information regarding casualties or the cause of the fire was provided. A fire has partially destroyed an adjacent building to a residential property in Dublin. The owner was not present at the scene when the fire occurred. The neighboring structure has been left in a state of ruin. The resident of the adjacent property reported no direct damage to their home, though debris from the fire was falling onto their property.

The Irish Cabinet will review an update on a fuel support scheme following energy cost protests. The announcement was made during the RTE Radio One News at 6. The scheme is understood to be open for applications starting in mid-May with payments to follow shortly after. Covered sectors include agriculture, haulage, construction, and fisheries. The aid will be combined with excise cuts, according to reporter Barry Lennon. The Irish government announced a new support package for workers and businesses on Wednesday. This follows disruptive protests and blockades caused by surging fuel prices in the country. Fuel costs have seen a $3 increase in just a few weeks. The measure follows unrest in the country despite its status as a developed European Union member. Minister Timmy Dooley, who holds the energy brief, noted that Ireland has seen increases in costs due to the war.

The Irish government has agreed to a financial aid package that includes excise cuts for green diesel. The package will reduce the cost of 1,000 litres of green diesel by €274. Building contractors, quarries, and up to 50,000 vehicles, including buses, are eligible for the road transporters support scheme. The reduction will amount to €274 per 1,000 litres purchased. Building contractors and quarries will be included in the relief following agreement by government party leaders.

A doctor has highlighted the need for change regarding debilitating bladder symptoms affecting women. Patients experience excruciating physical pain and cannot function normally. Statistics indicate nearly 40% of women suffer from some degree of bladder symptoms. The condition is described as a silent and widespread problem.

Each person in Ireland discards approximately 21.6 kilograms of food per year. Cauliflower is the most commonly wasted single vegetable, while pears are the most discarded fruit. This food waste is costing the country cash weekly.

The song 'Hoppípolla' by the band Sigur Rós was featured.

A 12-year-old musician is described as brilliant, playing songs with incredible skill. He is constantly making music and is a joy to spend time with.