UPDATE: Irish travelers heading to Turkey this summer face urgent challenges as the country enforces a sudden ban on eSIMs from eight popular providers, including Saily, Airalo, and Holafly. This critical development could leave many without essential mobile data upon arrival.

Tourists are advised to act quickly to avoid being caught off guard. The ban prohibits the activation of new eSIMs in Turkey, meaning those who wait until arrival to set up their digital SIM will encounter significant access issues. With the summer travel season in full swing, this is a timely alert for anyone planning to visit.

Travel expert at Holafly, Juan David Soler, warns, “Turkey’s sudden ban on eSIMs has caught many travelers off guard, and it’s vital that Irish holidaymakers heading there this summer take action before they fly.” He emphasizes the importance of ensuring that eSIMs are fully downloaded and activated before leaving Ireland.

For travelers who have already downloaded their eSIM profiles, the data plans will continue to function normally in Turkey. However, if you need to install or purchase an eSIM once you arrive, you risk being without internet access — a serious setback for navigating maps, transport, and bookings.

The ban is particularly impactful for Irish tourists, who have increasingly relied on eSIMs to avoid the high costs associated with local SIM cards and roaming fees. With Turkey being a favored holiday destination, the timing of this announcement raises concerns about connectivity for many.

As the summer travel season heats up, Irish holidaymakers must prioritize this essential step before their flights. Soler advises checking that your eSIM is operational while still on Irish networks, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

With the potential for confusion and disruption, it is crucial for travelers to stay informed and take the necessary steps to avoid being cut off as soon as they land. Prepare now to ensure you have the connectivity needed for a smooth trip.

Stay tuned for more updates as this situation evolves.

The debate over whether Dublin should adopt a system for directly electing its mayor is gaining traction, with a call for a public vote to coincide with the upcoming presidential election in November 2023. Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, the Labour Party’s spokesperson for Dublin, is advocating for this initiative, drawing inspiration from Limerick, which recently elected Ireland’s first directly-elected mayor, John Moran.

The push for a directly-elected mayor in Dublin follows a successful plebiscite in Limerick, where voters expressed overwhelming support for the concept three years prior. Ó Ríordáin is urging the government to hold a similar referendum in Dublin, emphasizing the importance of allowing residents to have a say in how their local government is structured. He stated, “We need to put this question to the people.”

Advocates for a directly-elected mayor argue that such a position would enhance accountability and provide a clearer line of governance for Dublin’s complex administrative structure. Currently, Dublin’s mayor is chosen from among the city councillors, which some believe dilutes the effectiveness of the role. A directly-elected mayor could serve as a stronger representative for the city, reflecting the electorate’s wishes more directly.

Ó Ríordáin’s proposal comes at a time when public interest in local governance is increasing. Residents have expressed a desire for greater engagement in decision-making processes, particularly concerning issues that directly impact their communities. As Dublin continues to face significant challenges, including housing shortages and infrastructural demands, the prospect of a directly-elected mayor could potentially streamline responses to these pressing concerns.

The Labour Party is positioning itself as a champion of local democracy with this initiative. The party aims to galvanize support not only from its base but also from other political factions and citizens who believe in empowering local leadership. By aligning the vote with the presidential election, they hope to maximize voter turnout and engagement.

As this discussion unfolds, the potential impacts of a directly-elected mayor on Dublin’s governance structure remain a topic of interest for many. The outcome of this initiative could set a precedent for other cities in Ireland considering similar changes.

The call for a vote reflects broader conversations about the future of local governance in Ireland and the role of citizens in shaping their political landscape. Residents of Dublin are encouraged to engage with this proposal and voice their opinions as the city navigates its path toward potential reform in local leadership.

UPDATE: Donegal Gardai are issuing an urgent reminder to the public about the escalating risks of car theft in the area. This alert follows two significant theft incidents that occurred between July 15 and July 18, 2025, highlighting the critical need for heightened car security.

In a troubling incident, a set of car keys and approximately €200 in cash were stolen from a vehicle parked near the Parochial House in Doneyloop. The theft occurred sometime between 9 PM on July 15 and 2 PM on July 17. Additionally, a pair of headphones and sunglasses were taken from an unlocked car in Buncrana on July 18, further amplifying concerns among local residents.

Garda Claire Rafferty is urging community members to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to secure their vehicles. “It’s crucial to leave all valuables at home and ensure your car is locked at all times,” she stated in a recent announcement.

The rising trend of vehicle break-ins is alarming and poses a significant threat to community safety. Authorities emphasize that public awareness and preventive actions can help mitigate these risks. With summer in full swing, many residents are out and about, making cars vulnerable to theft.

As this situation develops, locals are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the Gardaí immediately. The community’s cooperation is essential in combating this troubling trend.

Stay tuned for further updates as authorities continue to investigate these incidents and work towards enhancing public safety in Donegal.

UPDATE: Galway City and County Councils are urgently preparing to send a “shopping list” to the Government for long-awaited infrastructure upgrades across the region. This critical move comes as the Government unveils plans for a staggering €200 billion investment in national infrastructure today.

Both local authorities are currently conducting a comprehensive survey of serviced lands to identify necessary improvements that will bolster housing development. The discussions took place last evening at County Hall, where officials emphasized the pressing need for enhanced infrastructure to support new homes.

Galway East TD and Junior Minister Sean Canney addressed the situation during an interview on Galway Talks, affirming that the Government’s infrastructure investment will play a pivotal role in supporting housing initiatives. “Investment is crucial now more than ever,” Canney stated, highlighting the urgent need for action to address Galway’s growing housing demands.

This infrastructure push is not only about improving roads and utilities; it has a direct impact on the community’s ability to secure adequate housing, which is a pressing issue for many residents. The “shopping list” is expected to detail specific projects that will enhance livability and support economic growth in Galway.

As the Government prepares to outline its investment strategy, all eyes are on Galway’s local councils to ensure that the region’s needs are met. The outcome of this initiative could reshape the future of housing in Galway, making this a pivotal moment for local residents.

What happens next? Local authorities will finalize their list and submit it promptly, as the Government is expected to act swiftly on infrastructure proposals that can drive immediate results for communities across Ireland.

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.