UPDATE: Motorists are expressing outrage as parking fees at Limerick Colbert station have surged by nearly 86%, jumping from €3.50 to €6.50 per day. This sudden price hike has left daily commuters and city workers furious, as they now face significantly higher costs for parking at one of the city’s main transport hubs.

The new charges, effective immediately, apply to both the mobile parking app and on-site machines, which have also raised their rates to €6.50. Irish Rail has attributed this increase to a previous pricing anomaly that allowed non-rail customers to park at lower rates. An official spokesperson stated, “This resulted in non-rail customers taking up spaces for very cheap daily city parking.”

Motorists are already reacting to the price increase. One regular user noted, “People are voting with their feet. The station car park was very quiet this morning.” Another commuter voiced concern, saying, “In these straightened times when people are under financial pressure, it’s not a great thing to do.”

Local political leaders are also voicing their discontent. Clare Fianna Fail TD Cathal Crowe called the price hike “outrageous,” emphasizing that the near doubling of parking costs took many rail users by surprise. He highlighted the impact on those who rely on the station for commuting to Dublin and other destinations along the route. “These are all people who have made a conscious decision to use multi-modal transport and to minimize car use,” he stressed.

Crowe criticized the disproportionate nature of the increase, arguing that a smaller hike would have been more acceptable. “I’ve had texts, calls, and emails from many people who are frequent users of the service, and they feel let down by Irish Rail,” he said. He expressed concern that this price hike undermines efforts to promote sustainable travel options.

Despite the parking fee increase, a €20-per-week parking option remains available, though there are currently no monthly or annual tickets offered at Limerick Colbert station. The recent €20 million upgrade to the station, completed last year, has also changed the car park’s location, contributing to reduced parking availability. Crowe noted seeing vehicles parked “haphazardly on footpaths and open areas” due to this cut in spaces.

Additionally, Crowe has previously raised concerns with Irish Rail management about the parking situation, suggesting that linking parking fees to train tickets could better regulate parking usage. “I think this would be a much better solution to control use of parking spaces at the station instead of a price hike,” he argued.

As the situation develops, commuters are left to grapple with the immediate financial impact of these changes. Many are calling for Irish Rail to reconsider the parking fee increase and implement a more equitable solution that encourages rather than discourages public transport usage.

With increasing public anger and dissatisfaction, the future of parking at Limerick Colbert station remains uncertain. Commuters are now watching closely to see if Irish Rail will respond to the backlash and consider more reasonable options for users.

UPDATE: Nature enthusiasts in Donegal have only weeks left to catch a glimpse of the iconic puffins on Tory Island before they migrate south in August. As the summer season approaches its end, this is a critical time for bird watchers and photographers alike.

This weekend, Donegal photographer Claire Ferry made the trip to Tory Island to capture stunning images of these unique birds. Her timely visit comes as the famous puffins prepare for their annual migration, making this the last opportunity for many to see them until next year.

Ferry’s breathtaking photographs highlight the puffins’ vibrant colors and playful behavior, showcasing why these birds are a cherished symbol of Tory Island. With the migration fast approaching, officials urge locals and tourists to experience the magic of these creatures while they still can.

The puffins, known for their distinctive beaks and charming antics, are a major attraction for visitors to the island. As noted by Donegal Daily earlier this week, the coming weeks are pivotal for those hoping to witness the birds before they depart. Bird watchers are encouraged to plan their visits soon, as sightings will become increasingly rare.

As the season winds down, the urgency to observe these beloved birds intensifies. Ferry’s snapshots serve not only as a reminder of their beauty but also as a call to action for those wishing to appreciate nature’s wonders before they leave.

For those unable to make the trip, Ferry’s photographs offer a glimpse of Tory Island’s precious wildlife and the enchanting puffins that inhabit it. Sharing these images could inspire others to seek out their own adventures before the summer fades.

Authorities recommend checking local weather conditions and ferry schedules to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. As the puffins prepare to migrate, this is a fleeting moment for nature lovers on Tory Island.

Stay tuned for further updates as we follow the journey of these remarkable birds and the effect of their migration on the local ecosystem. Don’t miss your chance to see the puffins before they take flight!

UPDATE: A significant water supply disruption is impacting residents in Glenties and the nearby area of An Mullán Mór following a reservoir interruption. This urgent situation was confirmed by Uisce Eireann earlier today, as scheduled maintenance is underway.

Residents should brace for potential disruptions through 8 PM this evening. Officials recommend that those affected allow an additional 3-4 hours after the estimated restoration time for full water supply to return.

This situation is particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and families with young children, who may face challenges without access to clean water. The community is urged to prepare accordingly, as the interruption may affect daily activities.

Local authorities are working swiftly to minimize the impact and restore normal water services. Uisce Eireann emphasizes the need for residents to stay informed and adapt to the evolving situation.

As developments unfold, residents are encouraged to monitor updates closely. The urgency of this issue highlights the importance of reliable water supply and its direct impact on community well-being.

Stay tuned for more updates on this breaking news as officials continue their efforts to resolve the situation swiftly.

BREAKING: A van driver has been arrested following a dramatic high-speed chase through Inishowen early this morning. Gardaí from the Buncrana Roads Policing Unit intercepted the vehicle during a routine checkpoint in Bridgend when the driver failed to stop.

The incident unfolded around 5:00 AM today, as the van recklessly sped away from the checkpoint. Reports indicate the driver operated the vehicle in a dangerously erratic manner across Inishowen, prompting authorities to deploy a stinger device, successfully bringing the pursuit to an end.

Upon apprehension, the driver was arrested on suspicion of drink driving. Authorities confirmed that the driver lacked both a valid driver’s licence and insurance, leading to the immediate seizure of the van.

In a surprising twist, a passenger who fled on foot was also taken into custody after it was revealed he had an outstanding bench warrant.

This incident raises serious concerns about road safety and the risks associated with reckless driving. Gardaí are urging the public to report any suspicious or dangerous driving behavior immediately.

As investigations continue, further updates are expected. Residents are advised to stay alert and report any further incidents. More details are developing as authorities piece together the full circumstances of the chase.