UPDATE: Cork City’s bus network is set to roll out a 90-minute free transfer Leap fare starting next month, a significant move aimed at improving public transport accessibility. Passengers will enjoy free transfers between buses for multi-leg journeys, enhancing convenience for daily commuters.

This new fare structure, confirmed by the National Transport Authority (NTA), will be introduced in three phases. Initially, the flat 90-minute Leap card fare will apply only to Cork City bus services. The first phase is expected to begin in November 2023. Following this, the second phase will launch later this year, incorporating a flat fare for both bus and rail services between Kent Station, Little Island, and Glounthane.

However, the introduction of a new ‘tap-on tap-off’ payment system has been delayed due to technical issues, creating uncertainty among passengers who were looking forward to faster boarding processes. The NTA’s fare policy changes are part of the broader BusConnects project, designed to modernize and enhance public transport across Cork.

Green Party Councillor Oliver Moran emphasized the importance of these changes, stating, “They’ll make a real difference to passengers and services here and now.” He added that these fare adjustments are the first tangible steps of the overall BusConnects program, aiming to attract more users to public transport in the coming years.

The third phase, projected for next year, will introduce distance-based commuter bus fares in the new Cork Commuter Zone, which extends 30 km from the city center. This zone will connect additional commuter train stations, including Midleton and Mallow, enhancing access for residents in surrounding areas such as Fermoy, Bandon, and Kinsale.

Despite the delays in the tap-on tap-off system, Councillor Moran believes its eventual implementation will significantly reduce queuing times at busy stops like St Patrick’s Street and Kent Station, ultimately contributing to faster journeys.

The urgency of these changes cannot be overstated as Cork prepares for a more integrated public transport system that aims to encourage higher ridership. As preparations for these fare changes unfold, residents and commuters are urged to stay informed about the latest developments that will directly impact their daily travel.

This transformative approach to public transport is essential as Cork anticipates a shift in commuting patterns, preparing for high-frequency services and further integration of different transport modes over the next decade.

Stay tuned for more updates as the NTA finalizes the launch details of this groundbreaking initiative.

URGENT UPDATE: Controversy ignites as Donald Trump and Jill Biden were spotted sharing an intimate moment during the reopening ceremony of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The event, which took place earlier today, has triggered a flurry of reactions across social media platforms, reigniting discussions about Trump’s interactions with prominent women.

As the soon-to-be president mingled with global leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Prince William, observers noted a stark contrast to previous international events where Trump faced cold shoulders. Online commentary reflects both admiration for the newly restored cathedral and skepticism about Trump’s behavior. One user remarked, “Not even president yet, and he’s running the show,” highlighting the magnetic presence he commands.

While the cathedral’s grand reopening, a symbol of resilience and beauty, was celebrated, critics quickly redirected focus on Trump’s comments to Jill Biden. Reports describe an exchange where Trump introduced himself to her in a seemingly flirty manner, raising eyebrows and prompting accusations of insensitivity.

“Donald is instinctively attracted to the female form no matter what position they hold,”

one social media user commented, encapsulating the mixed sentiments surrounding the encounter. Observers are questioning whether such interactions are appropriate for a future president, especially in the context of the current social climate regarding respect for women.

The reopening of Notre Dame, which suffered devastating damage in a fire in 2019, marks a significant moment for France and beyond. The cathedral’s restoration has been met with widespread acclaim, with many calling it “a triumph” for the country. However, the focus on Trump’s behavior has overshadowed the celebration.

As the online discourse continues to escalate, many are left wondering what the implications of this event mean for Trump’s presidency and international relations. The juxtaposition of a historic restoration and a contentious social interaction has captured global attention.

WHAT’S NEXT: As reactions pour in, it remains to be seen how this incident will influence public opinion and political dynamics moving forward. This high-profile gathering may set the tone for Trump’s upcoming presidency and his interactions on the world stage.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as reactions continue to unfold.

URGENT UPDATE: The Irish Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) has divested over €1 million from two U.S.-owned accommodation companies, Expedia Group and Tripadvisor, linked to Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories. This significant move occurred in 2024, as revealed by the latest National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) report.

This divestment underscores growing scrutiny over investments tied to activities that support illegal settlements, which have sparked international controversy and human rights concerns. The Irish government previously announced a €2.95 million divestment from six Israeli companies, making this latest action a continuation of its ethical investment strategy.

Officials confirmed that while direct investments in Expedia and Tripadvisor have ceased, the fund’s holdings in other companies linked to Israeli settlements have surged. The ISIF’s direct shareholdings in four other firms—including Airbnb, Alstom, Booking Holdings, and Motorola Solutions Inc—rose from €2.1 million in 2023 to €5.3 million in 2024, raising questions about the fund’s investment ethics.

Both Expedia and Tripadvisor have faced backlash for their roles in facilitating the existence of illegal settlements through their platforms, which list accommodations based in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Last year, the ISIF held over €1.3 million in shares in these companies. The direct divestments from both platforms signal a shift in Ireland’s investment policies amid increasing pressure to align financial activities with human rights responsibilities.

Despite the recent divestment, the ISIF continues to invest in companies that are on the UN watchlist. Notably, the fund increased its holdings in Airbnb from €310,000 in 2023 to €440,000 in 2024. Airbnb has stated that it donates all profits from listings in the occupied West Bank to humanitarian organizations. Meanwhile, investments in Alstom have also risen significantly, with shareholdings jumping from €210,000 in 2023 to €1.53 million in 2024.

A spokesperson for Alstom claimed the company does not engage in activities related to the occupied Palestinian territories and has requested removal from the UN database. However, the ISIF’s continued investments in Booking Holdings and Motorola Solutions raise further concerns. Booking.com still lists numerous properties in settlements, while Motorola Solutions has faced criticism for its operations in the region.

The situation has provoked strong responses from political leaders. Cian O’Callaghan, deputy leader of the Social Democrats, labeled it “utterly outrageous” that the ISIF still held bonds from the Israeli government, which critics allege support military actions in Gaza. Following public outcry, Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe confirmed that the ISIF had divested from all Israeli state bonds in recent weeks.

As the Irish government reassesses its investment strategies, the implications of these decisions resonate deeply in both financial markets and global human rights discussions. Observers will be closely watching how this evolving landscape impacts Ireland’s international relations and ethical investment practices.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

Fashion retailer Pretty Little Thing is currently offering a striking little black dress (LBD) at a remarkable price of less than €50. This discount is part of a broader sale that features 60% off various collections, allowing customers to make significant savings on their purchases.

The dress in question, the Premium Black Woven Belt Detail Shift Dress, has been reduced from its original price of €75 to €49. Known for its versatility, the LBD has long been a staple in women’s fashion, first popularized by fashion icon Coco Chanel in the 1920s. With its simple yet elegant design, this dress is suitable for a range of occasions, making it a valuable addition to any wardrobe.

The stylish design features an integrated belt that enhances the waistline, catering to various body shapes. This adaptability ensures that the dress can be styled in numerous ways. Customers can elevate their look further with statement jewellery or chic heels, adding a personal touch to the overall aesthetic.

Pretty Little Thing describes the dress as a “study in minimalist design” that has been updated with a modern twist. The brand highlights the integrated belt detail, which sculpts a defined silhouette while maintaining the ease characteristic of a shift dress. The design serves as a sophisticated foundation that can easily transition between settings.

For those who prefer alternatives to black, the dress is also available in a lovely blush hue, appealing to a broader range of tastes. The dress is sold in sizes 4-16, ensuring that it accommodates a diverse clientele.

In this current sale, shoppers can explore a wide selection of items, including other dresses that have garnered attention, such as a comfy dress priced under €35 and a flattering blue dress from River Island.

For more details or to purchase the Premium Black Woven Belt Detail Shift Dress, customers can visit the official Pretty Little Thing website. This promotional event underscores the retailer’s commitment to providing stylish options at accessible prices, making fashionable attire available to a wider audience.