Survivors Demand Inclusion of Corporal Punishment in Abuse Inquiry

Published

8 hours ago

20 July, 2025

UPDATE: Survivors of abuse in the Irish education system are voicing outrage as the government excludes “barbaric” corporal punishment from a significant new inquiry into historical abuse in schools. This urgent demand comes just days after Minister for Education Helen McEntee announced the formation of a commission led by retired High Court judge Michael McGrath to investigate allegations of sexual abuse in Irish day and boarding schools.

The new commission, confirmed earlier this month, is set to focus solely on sexual abuse allegations, leaving many survivors and advocates feeling abandoned. They are calling for a comprehensive examination of the extreme physical violence that has scarred generations of children. The inquiry, which has a five-year time limit to complete its work, is scheduled to begin with a survey aimed at identifying the commission’s scope.

Survivors are expressing frustration that their painful experiences are being overlooked. One victim, a man in his 50s, stated, “It feels as if the Government has forgotten about our experiences.” He previously secured a conviction against a former Christian Brother and shared harrowing accounts of physical abuse in schools that occurred after 1982, the year when corporal punishment was banned in Ireland.

He recounted a chilling incident where a teacher violently smashed his arm onto a desk, saying, “Can you imagine the pain of that? My parents let me leave school after that.” His sentiments are echoed by others, who believe that the commission’s focus on sexual abuse is overshadowing the need to address the physical violence many endured.

Another survivor, recalling his time in school during the early 1990s, described the brutal treatment from a teacher who made students kneel on a sweeping brush for extended periods. “It was barbaric and degrading,” he asserted, emphasizing that such experiences should not be forgotten.

The inquiry has sparked significant debate, as the Scoping Inquiry revealed that many respondents felt the violence in schools “went beyond an acceptable level,” and that excessive disciplinary actions should be included in any future investigations. Survivors insist that the commission must address these historical abuses, particularly as many of them are intertwined with allegations of sexual abuse.

The commission is expected to launch a survivor engagement program, a step recommended by a previous inquiry to ensure that the language and content resonate with victims’ experiences. The Department of Education has been in communication with survivors, acknowledging their desire for a timely process as the commission tackles sexual abuse.

However, when questioned about the inclusion of corporal punishment in the inquiry, a spokesperson for the Department stated that they take child protection seriously and any reported concerns are forwarded to relevant authorities, including Tusla and An Garda Síochána. They emphasized that the Department has no statutory role in investigating historical abuse claims.

With the commission expected to finalize its setup by October 1, survivors are demanding action. They urge officials to acknowledge the full scope of abuse in the Irish educational system, which includes both sexual and physical violence. As the inquiry unfolds, the call for justice and recognition of these brutal experiences continues to grow stronger.

As this situation develops, it remains critical for the commission to address the multifaceted nature of abuse within schools, ensuring that all survivors are heard and validated. The emotional impacts of these injustices are profound, and the urgency for a comprehensive inquiry is paramount.

Tipperary’s Jake Morris Wins Hurler of the Year in Team of the Year

Published

1 minute ago

21 July, 2025

editorial

BREAKING: Newly-crowned All-Ireland champions Tipperary dominate The Sunday Game’s Hurling Team of the Year with seven selections, including the prestigious title of Hurler of the Year for Jake Morris. This recognition comes on the heels of Tipperary’s stunning victory over Cork, where they clinched the Liam MacCarthy Cup with a decisive score of 3-27 to 1-18 earlier this evening.

Morris’s exceptional performance throughout the season has earned him this top honor, as he played a crucial role in Tipperary’s triumph. The announcement was made just moments ago, amplifying the excitement surrounding the team and its fans. With four players from runners-up Cork, along with two from Kilkenny, and one each from Dublin and Galway, the Hurling Team of the Year showcases the best of the sport.

The 2025 season has been a remarkable journey for Morris, who contributed two points in the final match, solidifying his status as a key player. Renowned Kilkenny legend Henry Shefflin praised Morris, stating, “Jake Morris had a brilliant year. He’s been the spiritual leader for Tipp.” Shefflin emphasized Morris’s ability to elevate the team, even when they struggled in the first half of the final.

In a further endorsement, Shefflin noted, “He has become selfless in his game… he has grown to a stature that he is our Hurler of the Year.” Morris is seen as a pivotal figure in Tipperary’s future, bridging the gap between seasoned veterans and emerging talents.

The complete lineup for The Sunday Game’s Hurling Team of the Year reflects the high standards of the competition:

1. Rhys Shelly (Tipperary)
2. Robert Doyle (Tipperary)
3. Huw Lawlor (Kilkenny)
4. Seán O’Donoghue (Cork)
5. Eoghan Connolly (Tipperary)
6. Ronan Maher (Tipperary)
7. Ciarán Joyce (Cork)
8. Darragh Fitzgibbon (Cork)
9. Cathal Mannion (Galway)
10. Jake Morris (Tipperary)
11. Andrew Ormond (Tipperary)
12. Cian O’Sullivan (Dublin)
13. Martin Keoghan (Kilkenny)
14. John McGrath (Tipperary)
15. Brian Hayes (Cork)

As fans celebrate this significant achievement, the focus now shifts to what lies ahead for Morris and the Tipperary squad. Will they build on this success in the upcoming season? For now, Tipperary’s victory and Morris’s recognition as Hurler of the Year mark a historic moment in Irish hurling, capturing the hearts of supporters everywhere.

Stay tuned for more updates as the celebrations continue and the implications of this victory unfold in the world of sport.

Ryanair’s O’Leary Endorses Bonuses for Staff Charging Oversized Baggage Fees

Published

32 minutes ago

21 July, 2025

editorial

UPDATE: In a bold move that’s stirring debate, Ryanair’s Group Chief Executive, Michael O’Leary, has just announced his support for bonuses paid to staff who enforce charges on passengers bringing oversized luggage to the gate. This decision is set to impact travelers immediately, as Ryanair implements these policies to boost revenue and manage boarding efficiency.

Passengers caught with oversized bags, unable to fit their luggage into the airline’s designated ‘sizers,’ will incur a hefty charge of €75. For each passenger caught, Ryanair staff will earn €1.50, with the potential to accumulate up to €80 in bonuses each month. This initiative aims to not only enhance revenue but also to streamline the boarding process, which has been a growing concern for the airline.

This announcement, made on July 21, 2025, has already sparked significant discussion among travelers and industry experts alike. O’Leary’s backing of this policy highlights Ryanair’s ongoing strategy to capitalize on ancillary revenues, a crucial aspect of the airline’s business model that has proven effective in recent years.

The implications for travelers are clear: those who fail to adhere to the luggage size regulations will face steep fees, making it essential for passengers to be vigilant about their carry-on sizes. As Ryanair continues to make headlines with its controversial policies, the airline is likely to face scrutiny from consumer advocates and travelers alike.

What’s Next: Watch for passenger reactions in the coming days as this policy goes into effect. Additionally, it will be interesting to see if other airlines follow suit with similar policies or if this will remain a unique approach for Ryanair.

As this story develops, travelers are encouraged to stay informed about Ryanair’s baggage policies to avoid unexpected charges at the gate.

Galway City Council Ranks 2nd in Ireland for EV Adoption

Published

1 hour ago

21 July, 2025

editorial

UPDATE: Galway City Council has just been confirmed as the second in Ireland for electric vehicle (EV) adoption among local authorities. According to a recent analysis by Geotab, the City Council boasts 20 electric vehicles out of its 83 total vehicles, representing a remarkable 24% electrification rate.

In stark contrast, the Galway County Council ranks significantly lower, with only two electric vehicles in its fleet of 315. This disparity highlights the urgent need for further action in the region to promote sustainable transport options.

The latest findings reveal that only six out of the 31 local authorities in Ireland have electrified more than eight percent of their fleets. Galway City Council’s commitment to EV adoption puts it among leaders in the country, alongside Fingal County Council and Dublin City Council, which have 24% and 8% respectively.

This development is critical as the world shifts towards greener technologies. The electrification of local government fleets not only reduces carbon emissions but also sets a precedent for private sector initiatives. Local residents and advocacy groups are likely to feel encouraged by these advancements, as they signify a commitment to sustainability and a cleaner environment.

Local authorities in Ireland are under increasing pressure to adapt to climate change and improve air quality. With the recent push for a greener future, the spotlight is on those councils that are leading the charge in EV adoption. The data from Geotab underscores the importance of strategic planning and investment in electric vehicle infrastructure to support this transition.

What’s Next? As the demand for electric vehicles increases, all eyes will be on Galway City Council to see how it enhances its EV fleet and infrastructure. The council’s initiatives could serve as a model for other regions looking to improve their sustainability practices.

Stay tuned for more updates on how this trend develops and impacts local communities. As electric vehicle adoption continues to rise, the conversation around environmental responsibility and cleaner transportation is more urgent than ever.

The future of transportation is electric, and Galway City Council is leading the way in Ireland.

Trump’s Tariffs Threaten €30 Billion Dublin Infrastructure Plan

Published

1 hour ago

21 July, 2025

editorial

Plans to invest €30 billion in infrastructure over the next six years, including the Dublin Metrolink, could face significant obstacles due to potential tariffs from US President Donald Trump. The National Development Plan (NDP) is set to be unveiled tomorrow, detailing upgrades to roads, the water network, and the power grid.

The announcement comes amid concerns that Trump’s tariff proposals may impact the feasibility of the ambitious spending. Jack Chambers, Ireland’s Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, emphasized that the funding will target urgent developmental needs. This financial boost is made possible by the recent sale of shares in AIB and a substantial €14 billion windfall from Apple taxes.

Chambers stated that the investment will focus on three key areas: water and wastewater infrastructure, the Metro project, and necessary improvements to the energy grid. He remarked on the potential for “transformation and investment” in the Irish economy over the coming years.

When questioned about the source of an additional €10 billion for the plan, Chambers explained it is part of the government’s medium-term economic strategy, indicating a prioritization of capital investment. He noted that urgent action is needed in areas where delays could have severe consequences.

The timeline for the Dublin MetroLink project is contingent upon the planning system. So far, €35 million of taxpayer money has been allocated to consultancy fees for the metro project. The revised NDP will also address the funding needs of Uisce Éireann, which has requested an additional €2 billion, and ESB Networks, which seeks an extra €1 billion within its €13.4 billion spending plan. Additional funding is also anticipated for Eirgrid.

The finalized NDP will be agreed upon by key government leaders, including Micheál Martin, Taoiseach of Ireland, and Simon Harris, Tánaiste. Plans for housing, water, energy, and transport will be part of this significant spending initiative, which aims to address Ireland’s pressing housing crisis.

Discussions between Martin and Harris on the spending allocations took place on Saturday, with ongoing negotiations highlighting the urgency of finalizing the plan. However, uncertainty remains regarding the potential impact of Trump’s tariff negotiations. One source indicated that “all eyes will still be on Trump” as the NDP is launched, suggesting that the plans are contingent on the outcome of discussions related to tariffs.

A minister expressed concern about Trump’s unpredictable negotiation style, stating, “He really casts a long shadow,” referring to the potential for sudden tariff increases that could derail the infrastructure budget. This apprehension reflects a broader anxiety about the government’s ability to secure funding amid fluctuating international relations.

Another senior figure noted the significance of this infrastructure investment, labeling it a “once-in-a-generation opportunity.” The government aims to leverage the NDP and the forthcoming Summer Economic Statement to communicate its strategy regarding current and unexpected expenditures effectively.

The sentiment among some ministers is that caution is necessary to avoid repeating past economic mistakes. As one source put it, “We do not want to repeat past Celtic Tiger errors when we cut back on infrastructure spending at the wrong time.”

As the government finalizes its plans, the emphasis will be on clarity and stability in budgeting, especially in light of potential external financial pressures. The coming days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of Ireland’s infrastructure development and the broader economic landscape.