Stories from Ireland

The organization ALONE supported more than 46,500 people in Ireland last year. Physical health and mobility issues have overtaken loneliness as the primary reason for seeking assistance. A growing cohort of individuals over age 85 is struggling to manage complex health needs outside of hospital settings. Sean Moynihan, Chief Executive of ALONE, discussed these findings on RTÉ Radio 1. Approximately 30% of people contacting the ALONE organization require assistance with housing adaptations as homes become unsuitable due to frailty, bereavement, or advanced age. Other concerns reported include mobility issues and the need for assistive technology to prevent falls. ALONE Chief Executive Sean Moynihan said that early community intervention is necessary to keep elderly people healthier and avoid high-cost nursing home placements.

Dublin City Council is evaluating methods to remove a Palestinian flag attached to the 120-meter O'Connell Street spire. Options under consideration include using a 300-tonne crane, rope climbing access, or a mounted platform. The flag was first spotted near the top of the in September and has remained for seven months.

The Federal Government (FG) plans to establish a Cybersecurity Council to combat escalating cyber threats.

Clan Raffin lost the men's All Ireland Energy final to their opponents at Aviva Stadium. The final score was 46 points to 31. Joel Bohemia secured the women's title in the same competition. Katrina Finn scored a late try to lead her team to a 32-29 victory, marking their third consecutive win.

Galway secured an 11-point win over Offaly in a hurling match. The game featured a halftime score of 13-10 in favor of Galway. Galway outscored Offaly 7-3 in the third quarter. Oshin Kelly scored a goal from a tight angle during the match. The final score reached 4-0 in favor of Galway. Galway secured a victory over Offaly with a final score of 226 to 118. The match took place in front of 6,557 spectators at Salt Hill. Galway maintains a 100% record following the win. The team will face Kilkenny in Tullamore in two weeks.

Down secured a 3-21 to 2-21 victory over reigning Ulster champions Donegal. Michael Murphy scored two goals to seal the win. This result marks Donegal's first defeat in Ulster since 2023. Down will now face Armagh in an Ulster semi-final next weekend. Manager Conor Laverty noted Donegal's strong attacking performance in the league final.

Professor Kolunogara suggests that Polymarket may function as both a gambling product and a financial derivative. The professor argues that the platform currently lacks appropriate regulation from both addiction and financial perspectives. Polymarket did not respond to a request for comment this week.

Clare County Council is commencing compulsory acquisition of 20 properties to increase local housing supply. The acquisition includes 15 residential and 5 commercial properties. Local authorities director of service for housing Alan Farrell confirmed the move to address dereliction. The action aims to mitigate the scourge of derelict buildings in the region.

Ryanair spokesperson Alicja Wójcik-Gołębiowska stated that current fuel suppliers are guaranteeing availability through the end of May 2026. The airline noted that the stability of fuel supplies and subsequent ticket prices depend heavily on the duration of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. No specific impact on flight schedules or immediate price hikes was confirmed by the carrier. The statement addresses concerns regarding aviation fuel accessibility amidst regional instability.

Armagh achieved a decisive victory over Monaghan with a score of 2-32 to 1-24 in the Ulster football championship. The win marks a significant comeback for player Kieran McMenamin following a long-term ACL injury. The result secures their place in the upcoming semi-finals.