URGENT UPDATE: In a shocking revelation, three sisters from south Dublin have come forward to share their harrowing experiences of sexual abuse inflicted by their brother, Richard Brennan, a priest. The sisters, now adults, describe their childhood as a nightmare, detailing how Brennan would awaken them in the middle of the night to perpetrate his crimes.

“It was hell on earth, it was unrelenting,” one of the sisters, Catherine Wrightstone, stated, highlighting the profound psychological impact of the abuse. “When you survive rape, it’s like surviving annihilation. It feels like a part of you dies in those moments.”

This disturbing account, reported earlier today, has sparked outrage and calls for accountability within the Church. The sisters’ brave decision to speak out is expected to encourage other survivors of abuse to come forward. They hope their story will shine a light on the systemic issues surrounding sexual abuse and the need for stronger protections for victims.

The sisters recounted that the abuse began at a young age, becoming a defined part of their early life. As they grew older, the attacks became more brazen and frequent, with Brennan showing little regard for their well-being. Their testimony underscores a crucial need for societal change and support for survivors.

Irish authorities are currently reviewing the case, and advocates are urging immediate action to ensure justice for the victims. Support networks are mobilizing to provide resources for those affected by similar circumstances, emphasizing the importance of healing and advocacy.

As the story develops, it is imperative to continue monitoring the response from both the Church and law enforcement. The sisters are not just sharing their trauma; they are demanding change and accountability.

This is a critical moment for awareness of sexual abuse issues, particularly within religious institutions. The sisters’ courage in coming forward is a pivotal step in addressing these long-standing problems and fostering a safer environment for future generations.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds. Share this urgent news to raise awareness and support the voices of survivors.

BREAKING: Independent TD Catherine Connolly has launched her presidential campaign with a significant boost, raising €12,000 in just 24 hours. This financial surge marks a strong start for Connolly, who announced her official entry into the Aras race earlier this week after securing 20 Oireachtas nominations.

The Galway representative is already gaining traction, with over 600 supporters contributing amounts ranging from €1 to €200. Connolly’s campaign team has grown rapidly, with 2,000 volunteers signing up to support her mission. A post on her campaign’s social media emphasized this impressive fundraising effort, stating, “in a little over one day, we have raised more in donations than total declared donations to Gallagher 2018, McGuinness 2011, or Dana 2011.”

Connolly, who previously served as Leas Ceann Comhairle, is preparing for a campaign that is expected to cost between €250,000 and €500,000. She plans to engage with voters through a grassroots approach, promising to visit “cities, towns, and villages across the island” in the months leading up to the election.

“I believe I am at an advantage by being the first candidate to enter the race for the Aras,” Connolly stated in an interview. “I think we have conviction and we are eager to put forward our vision for Ireland.”

As Michael D Higgins prepares to depart the Aras later this year, Connolly’s campaign aims to capitalize on the momentum generated from this initial fundraising success. With her campaign team already mobilized and various communication channels established, including a website, email list, and WhatsApp group, Connolly is positioning herself as a formidable contender in the upcoming election.

The clock is ticking as Connolly and her supporters gear up for a campaign characterized by “people power.” As her fundraising efforts continue to draw attention, observers are eager to see how this early success translates into voter support.

Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds. Connolly’s campaign is not just about money; it’s about building a movement that resonates with the electorate. Share this story to keep your friends informed about the latest in Ireland’s presidential race!

BREAKING: BOYLE Sports has just announced a significant three-year sponsorship renewal with Galway Races, ensuring their continued presence as the title sponsor of Saturday’s exciting events. This development, confirmed today, will keep the bookmaker at the forefront of one of Ireland’s premier racing festivals.

The renewed partnership guarantees BOYLE Sports’ sponsorship of the prestigious €110,000 day six feature, the BOYLE Sports Handicap Hurdle, along with the €17,000 BOYLE Sports Maiden Hurdle. This marks a crucial investment in the future of horse racing in Galway, reinforcing the bookmaker’s commitment to the sport and local community.

In an interesting twist, the racing schedule has undergone changes that now allow BOYLE Sports to acquire naming rights to the €80,000 Galway Tribes Hurdle, which was previously held on Fridays. This adjustment is set to enhance the excitement surrounding Saturday’s events, drawing even more spectators and participants.

The announcement has garnered attention from racing enthusiasts and local businesses alike, as it signifies a renewed investment in the Galway racing community. Officials from both BOYLE Sports and Galway Races expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, underscoring its importance for promoting local culture and entertainment.

“This renewal is a testament to our shared vision for horse racing in Galway,” said a spokesperson from BOYLE Sports. “We are excited to continue our relationship and enhance the experience for fans and participants alike.”

As the Galway Races continue to attract thousands of visitors each year, this sponsorship is expected to not only boost attendance but also elevate the profile of the events held at the racecourse. With the next Galway Races event approaching, anticipation is building among fans eager to see the impact of this renewed commitment.

Looking ahead, the next race day will take place on Saturday, and fans are encouraged to participate in the festivities, which promise thrilling races and community engagement. This partnership is set to redefine the racing experience in Galway, and updates will continue to develop as the race day approaches.

URGENT UPDATE: As the countdown to Ireland’s first-ever regular season NFL game intensifies, a significant spike in ticket scams is alarming fans. The highly anticipated matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park on September 28, 2023, has led to a frenzy for tickets, with over 600,000 fans vying for a chance to attend.

Just weeks after the ticket sale frenzy began, financial crime experts are sounding the alarm about a dramatic increase in scams targeting desperate fans. Reports indicate an alarming 80% increase in ticket scam victims in Ireland, as criminals exploit unregulated platforms amid soaring demand.

Authorities confirm that Revolut, a major financial service in Ireland, has seen a surge in scam reports since the NFL tickets went on sale on June 17. The company analyzed data from its Irish customers and found a concerning 48% rise in money lost to ticket-related fraud during this time.

Dr. Nicola Harding, CEO of We Fight Fraud, urges fans to remain vigilant. “When regulated resale options are removed, fans don’t stop searching for tickets; they simply turn to social media where fraudsters lie in wait,” she cautioned in an interview. Harding emphasized the need to stick to official platforms that provide consumer protection and prevent scams.

The 2023 NFL game in Dublin is causing excitement not only among local fans but also attracting international enthusiasts, especially from the UK and US. However, with strict resale laws in Ireland prohibiting sales above face value, many fans are forced to seek tickets through risky channels, thereby increasing their vulnerability to fraud.

Experts have identified social media, particularly Facebook and TikTok, as the primary platforms for these scams. Younger customers, primarily aged 17-24, are reportedly the most susceptible. Scammers often lure victims with offers that seem too good to be true, leading to swift money transfers without proper verification.

In light of these developments, We Fight Fraud and Revolut are issuing an early warning to fans. They advise against purchasing tickets through social media and underscore that three in four tickets bought through these channels are scams.

Dave Eborne, Head of Fraud Operations at Revolut, highlighted the sophistication of these criminals, stating, “It’s these hotly anticipated events that become prime targets for fraudsters.” He added that the lack of controlled environments allows scammers to thrive, preying on enthusiastic fans eager to secure their spot at the game.

Common tactics employed by scammers include:
– **Impossible to Meet in Person:** Scammers often operate remotely, avoiding in-person transactions.
– **Less Controlled Environments:** Unofficial sites or social media marketplaces are preferred for their lack of verification.
– **Too Good to Be True Offers:** Fraudsters entice victims with fake tickets at prices that seem unrealistically low.
– **FOMO (Fear of Missing Out):** Pressure tactics are used to rush victims into quick payments.
– **Fake Digital Tickets:** Scammers often provide convincing screenshots of tickets that do not exist.

With nearly two months left until kick-off, the urgency for fans to stay safe is paramount. As ticket demand continues to surge, the risk of falling prey to scams remains high. Fans are urged to prioritize legitimate platforms to ensure they secure their tickets safely.

In summary, as the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings prepare for their historic game at Croke Park, fans must navigate the ticket landscape carefully to avoid the pitfalls of fraud. Stay informed, stay cautious, and don’t let the excitement of the game lead to regret.