URGENT UPDATE: A Kilkenny priest has stirred controversy after labeling working mothers as a “curse” on society during a lecture at the Presentation Convent in Kilkenny earlier this week. The priest’s remarks have ignited a heated debate on parental responsibilities and societal values.

Speaking to a group of young girls, the priest criticized what he termed the “apathetic” attitudes of many parents in the southeast, asserting that they “don’t give a damn” about their daughters’ education or safety. His hard-hitting comments underscore a growing concern over the influence of parental behavior on children’s development.

The priest pointedly accused parents of hypocrisy, stating, “I know of parents who are too damn lazy to get up and go to Mass on a Sunday morning and are too busy in the evening getting ready to go for a drink.” He questioned the effectiveness of such parents pushing their children to attend Mass, warning that children would eventually recognize the inconsistencies in their parents’ actions.

“How could children living in this type of environment have any respect for their parents or, indeed, any authority?”

The priest further escalated his critique by arguing that the working mother is damaging the economy by taking jobs that could otherwise go to young people. “Let’s face it, if all the wives hold on to their jobs in this country, there will be no jobs left for their sons and daughters,” he declared, emphasizing the potential long-term consequences of current employment trends.

This provocative stance has sparked immediate reactions from parents and educators alike, raising questions about the balance between work and family life in today’s society. As the debate unfolds, many are left wondering how these comments will impact perceptions of working mothers and their roles within the family and community.

As discussions continue, the priest’s remarks serve as a significant reminder of the challenges faced by working families and the societal expectations placed upon them. The implications of his statements are sure to resonate throughout Kilkenny and beyond, prompting further dialogue about parental responsibilities and children’s upbringing.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops. The conversation around working mothers and their contributions to society is just beginning.

URGENT UPDATE: The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has just announced a nationwide recall of turkey and ham dinners due to the potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes. This harmful bacteria poses serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, cancer patients, the elderly, and young children.

The ready-made meals, produced by Ballymaguire Foods, may cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, fever, headache, and muscle pain. In high-risk individuals, the consequences can be severe and potentially fatal. The recall affects all package sizes, bar codes, and use-by dates, making it crucial for consumers to check their purchases immediately.

Retailers across the country are ordered to remove these dinners from their shelves and prominently post recall notices at point-of-sale locations. Wholesalers and distributors are urged to contact affected customers to ensure that these products are no longer in circulation. Additionally, caterers must refrain from using the implicated meals.

This urgent action comes on the heels of a previous recall last month, when the FSAI warned of similar risks associated with Ballymaguire Foods Bacon and Cabbage ready meals. These ongoing concerns highlight the critical need for vigilance in food safety practices.

Consumers are advised to dispose of any turkey and ham dinners from Ballymaguire Foods and to seek medical advice if they experience any symptoms related to Listeria. The FSAI continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary.

For immediate safety, check your refrigerator now and share this information with family and friends to prevent illness. Stay tuned for further developments on this urgent matter.

UPDATE: In an exclusive interview, Fair City star Matthew O’Brien shares the profound impact of becoming a father, describing the births of his two children as “life-changing.” This heartfelt revelation comes as O’Brien navigates dramatic storylines in Carrigstown amidst the show’s compelling summer plot twists.

Reflecting on his favorite memories, O’Brien states, “Seeing my children for the very first time in my arms is something that nothing else can peak.” Such emotional moments highlight how parenthood reshapes lives, resonating with fans and followers alike.

In a recent trip to London for his 40th birthday, O’Brien experienced cherished family time, attending the show “My Neighbour Totoro” with his kids. Despite some labeling it as “not rock’n’roll,” he insists the experience was “totally perfect,” emphasizing the importance of family connections.

O’Brien’s journey through the entertainment world has been marked by significant influences, particularly his admiration for actors like Harrison Ford and Klaus Kinski. He describes Ford as the “pinnacle of cool,” and credits Kinski for inspiring him to pursue acting. Such personal insights offer a glimpse into the motivations that drive O’Brien’s career.

The actor also shared his favorite moments from live performances, recalling an unforgettable experience at a Muse concert in 2023. “They were incredible,” he stated, reminiscing about past gigs that left lasting impressions on him.

O’Brien’s passion extends beyond acting, as he expresses a deep love for Star Wars, particularly the original trilogy. He has even founded a production company fueled by his admiration for sci-fi and fantasy films, showcasing his commitment to creative storytelling.

In a poignant tribute, O’Brien remembers his late cousin, Patrick, as his best friend, emphasizing the enduring bond they share even after his passing. He reflects on how gaming, specifically the PS5 title “Death Stranding,” has provided comfort during his grieving process.

Among his light-hearted moments, O’Brien shared a joke about illegally parked frogs, saying, “They get toad away.” He also offered personal advice: “Do it scared.” This mantra resonates with many, encouraging individuals to confront their anxieties head-on.

As O’Brien continues to captivate audiences on RTE One and RTE Player, fans can stay updated on the latest storylines by joining the exclusive Facebook group dedicated to Fair City. With so much unfolding in Carrigstown, viewers won’t want to miss the upcoming twists and turns.

Stay tuned for more updates on O’Brien and the dramatic developments in Fair City as the summer heats up!

UPDATE: Dublin City Council has just voted to increase the Local Property Tax (LPT) by a substantial 15%, a decision that will remain in effect until 2029. This significant change comes as the council aims to restore the tax to its base rate for the rest of the council term, a shift from its previous trend of reducing it to the maximum allowable amount.

This decision has immediate implications for Dublin residents, with some households facing potential hikes of up to 34% due to the combination of this tax increase and a nationwide re-evaluation of LPT bands set to occur in November 2023. Labour Councillor Darragh Moriarty emphasized the need for this increase, claiming it will generate an additional €65 million in funding for essential city services and infrastructure improvements.

“This is a progressive decision that puts Dubliners first,” Cllr. Moriarty stated. “The extra €65 million will be put to real use, particularly in improving standards in our social housing and addressing chronic issues like vacancy and dereliction. Families in my area live in unacceptable conditions, and this funding will help us tackle those problems directly.”

Moriarty also announced plans to establish a revolving fund aimed at addressing the issues of vacancy and dereliction within the city. He pointed out that it is senseless for buildings to remain empty while residents struggle to find adequate housing. “With this new fund, we can take real action—bringing homes and spaces back into use,” he added.

In a surprising turn, the proposal from the opposition party, Sinn Féin, to cut the LPT by the maximum allowable amount was defeated. Sinn Féin group leader, Cllr. Daithí Doolan, criticized the decision, labeling the coalition of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, the Green Party, Labour Party, and Social Democrats as an “unholy alliance” that has neglected the needs of Dublin families.

“This increase will place an additional burden on households already struggling to make ends meet,” Doolan stated. He vowed that Sinn Féin would continue to fight against what they deem an unfair tax that does not consider income or ability to pay.

As Dublin residents brace for the effects of this tax hike, the council’s decision highlights the balancing act between generating necessary revenue for public services and the financial strain on everyday citizens. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on how the increased funding will be utilized and the broader implications for housing conditions in the Irish capital.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.