📰 Irish Independent · 90

Ireland weather: Warm, dry weekend in store with next week promising
Ireland is expected to experience a warm and dry weekend, with temperatures reaching up to 23°C. Met Éireann forecasts a continued warming trend through next week, with high pressure systems bringing drier conditions and sunshine. There is a chance of thunderstorms on Monday, but these are expected to pass, leaving a warm and sunny second half of the week. Temperatures could reach the mid- or high 20s by the end of the week, accompanied by some showers. The forecast includes dry weather for major events such as Metallica's concerts at the Aviva Stadium.

Drone firm Manna announces end of deliveries in Ireland
Drone delivery company Manna has announced it will stop operating in Ireland, citing the absence of a clear national regulatory framework as a key factor. The decision follows the rejection of its proposed drone hub in Dundrum, Dublin, by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council due to local opposition, including objections from religious figures concerned about potential disruptions during church services. Manna plans to focus its efforts on markets such as the US, UK, China, and UAE, where regulatory progress and commercial opportunities appear stronger.

Leaving Cert music: Beatles and Mozart strike the right note for well-prepared students
The Leaving Certificate music exam reportedly favored well-prepared students, with the higher-level paper rewarding those who thoroughly studied their set works. Teachers noted that while some sections presented challenges—particularly in Irish music and aural skills—the overall structure remained familiar to students. The listening paper contained no major surprises, though certain questions, such as those involving Berlioz and aural skills, were described as particularly difficult.

Mother tells Parnell attack trial daughter now non-verbal
The mother of a five-year-old girl who was stabbed near a crèche on Parnell Square in Dublin in 2023 testified during the trial of Riad Bouchaker. She described finding her daughter's belongings on the ground while medical staff attempted to resuscitate her. The prosecution stated that Bouchaker targeted three children's upper bodies, heads, necks, and chests with intent to kill. Bouchaker has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges including attempted murder and assault. The victim, now nearly eight years old, is non-verbal and uses blinking to answer yes-or-no questions.
Manna to cease drone delivery flights in Ireland, blaming planners
Manna has decided to stop its drone delivery operations in Ireland, citing issues with local planners.

Voting under way in UK by-election as Burnham eyes seat
Polls have opened in the UK by-election in Makerfield, where Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, is running as Labour's candidate. Burnham aims to return to Parliament and potentially unseat Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Starmer has offered Burnham a significant role in his government if he wins, but Burnham and his allies have rejected this, emphasizing their desire for a 'coronation' scenario where Starmer steps down rather than facing a leadership challenge. Starmer has stated he will not step down and will defend his leadership against any challenges. Reports indicate that some内阁

Argentina-Algeria: Fennecs are already dreaming of knocking down Messi
Before the start of the World Cup match between Argentina and Algeria, tensions reached a peak as fans of both teams clashed at Times Square in New York. The incident involved confrontations between supporters of the reigning world champions and the double African champions. American police made several arrests. The pressure on both teams is high, with Argentina aiming for a second consecutive World Cup title, an achievement last accomplished by Brazil in 1962. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, seeks to defy statistical odds after reaching the top of the FIFA rankings for the first time since 20
New school zones established in two West Cork schools
New school zones have been established in two West Cork schools.
World Cup Diary | Dan meets the legendary Tommy Smyth
The article discusses Dan meeting the legendary Tommy Smyth, likely in the context of a World Cup-related event or story.
Summer is back - Met Éireann forecasts dry and sunny weekend with temperatures up to 23C
The Irish Independent reports that Met Éireann has forecast a dry and sunny weekend with temperatures reaching up to 23°C.
42 South African nationals removed from the State on chartered flight
42 South African nationals were removed from Ireland on a chartered flight.
Donegal TD welcomes expansion of side by side rebuilds for defective block homeowners with disabilities
A Donegal TD has welcomed an expansion of 'side by side' rebuilds for homeowners with disabilities living in defective blocks.
Kerry retrofit scheme to transform 45 council homes – ‘People are queuing up to avail of it’
The Kerry retrofit scheme aims to renovate 45 council-owned homes, with residents expressing strong interest in participating.
Sligo teacher awarded Dublin City University PhD scholarship for maths research
A teacher from Sligo has been awarded a PhD scholarship by Dublin City University for their research in mathematics.
‘Light at the end of the tunnel’ for 20-year saga as Wexford properties set for tenants
The article discusses the resolution of a 20-year legal dispute involving properties in Wexford, Ireland, which are now set to be rented out to tenants.
Early Galway train service confirmed to continue after nearly 1700 sign petition calling for retention
An early Galway train service has been confirmed to continue following a petition with nearly 1700 signatures calling for its retention.

SpaceX is now a public company worth nearly $2tn. What happens next?
SpaceX has become a publicly traded company with a valuation of $2.05 trillion after raising $75 billion in its initial public offering. Despite skepticism regarding its business model and governance, investor confidence remains strong, reflected in the stock's over 11% increase on its first day of trading. Analysts have questioned the valuation, suggesting it could be closer to $1 trillion. The article notes that Starlink, rather than space transportation or xAI, is currently the primary revenue generator for SpaceX. The piece emphasizes that investing in SpaceX is largely a bet on Elon Musk.
Wexford pub vacant for years sells for €101,000
A pub in Wexford that had been vacant for several years has sold for €101,000.
The Irish Independent’s view: Parents of children with additional needs deserve reassurance on classes
The Irish Independent expresses concern over the lack of clarity regarding classroom arrangements for children with additional needs, emphasizing the need for parents to receive reassurances about their children's education.
Former presidents and music heavyweights help light up opening of sprawling Barack Obama Presidential Centre
The Barack Obama Presidential Center was officially opened with the participation of former presidents and notable figures from the music industry.
Today's News in 90 Seconds, Friday, June 19

Dáil approves abortion bill, most Govt TDs vote against
Minister for Children Norma Foley is among several government TDs who will vote against Sinn Féin's proposed legislation to eliminate the three-day waiting period for abortions in early pregnancy. The bill has opposition support and is expected to pass through the Dáil. If passed, it will undergo further scrutiny by an Oireachtas committee. Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill may discuss the bill with the Attorney General, potentially leading to its enactment by year-end. Government TDs have a free vote on the issue, though some in Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael plan to oppose the measure
‘Atomic bombs’, badgers and U2: Ireland’s headline-making planning battles
The article discusses various high-profile planning disputes in Ireland, highlighting unusual cases such as a reference to 'atomic bombs,' conflicts involving badgers, and issues related to U2.

Clark leads as darkness descends on Shinnecock Hills
Wyndham Clark took the lead at the US Open after completing his first-round score at Shinnecock Hills, which had been delayed by fog. Clark recorded five birdies and an eagle, finishing with a four-shot advantage over other players who were still playing when the course closed due to darkness. Several top golfers, including Dustin Johnson and John Rahm, remained on two-under-par but had yet to complete their rounds. Rory McIlroy posted a strong opening round of 69, significantly improving on his previous performance at this event.
Simone Rocha show in Florence
The Irish Independent reported on Simone Rocha's fashion show held in Florence.

Ger Brennan reveals that Jarlath Burns apologised for comments about suspension
Dublin manager Ger Brennan stated he would not focus heavily on his recent 12-week suspension, which concluded following Dublin's victory over Cavan. Brennan disclosed that GAA president Jarlath Burns had apologized for remarks made on Morning Ireland regarding the suspension. Brennan also requested that Dublin's upcoming match be held at Parnell Park rather than Croke Park. Burns' characterization of Brennan's actions during a March league game against Galway as 'irrational' led Brennan to issue a statement via his solicitor. Brennan acknowledged Burns' apology and expressed willingness to 'm

Man held as boy 'ends up in crocodile enclosure' in UK
A man was arrested in the UK on suspicion of attempted murder after a three-year-old boy ended up in a crocodile enclosure at Johnson's of Old Hurst zoo in Huntingdonshire. The boy was hospitalized with serious injuries and is currently critical but stable. Cambridgeshire Police confirmed the arrest of a 30-year-old man from Norfolk and stated that the suspect and the child are not believed to know each other. Authorities are investigating the incident and speaking to witnesses.

Hundreds of criminal cases adjourned as solicitors withdraw services in legal aid row
Hundreds of criminal cases in Dublin and other areas of Ireland were adjourned after criminal legal aid solicitors withdrew their services in protest against the Department of Justice’s proposed new payments model for legal aid cases in the District Courts. The action began on Wednesday and continued through Thursday and Friday, with plans to escalate further. The affected cases include those in the District, Circuit, Central, and Special Criminal Courts, as well as the Court of Appeal, excluding cases involving individuals in custody, juveniles, or priority sexual offenses involving minors. A

Rain warning for Cork and Kerry to hit tomorrow evening
Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow rain warning for Cork and Kerry, effective from 9pm on Thursday until noon on Friday. The warning indicates spells of heavy rain, which could lead to spot flooding and challenging travel conditions. The forecast also mentions potential thunderstorms in some areas. The weather is described as unpredictable, with dry conditions expected today but heavy rain anticipated tonight, especially in southern regions. The forecast suggests gradual improvement later in the week, though with some uncertainty.

‘If Ukraine burns, your Moscow will burn’: Zelenskiy issues threat as Kyiv strikes Russia
Ukraine conducted a significant drone attack on Moscow, targeting an oil refinery for the second time this week, which Kyiv described as retaliation for an attack that damaged a historic monastery in Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned that 'if Ukraine burns, your Moscow will burn.' In response, Russia launched missile attacks on Kyiv, also for the second time this week, though Russia denied striking the monastery. Reports indicated damage to areas in Moscow, including a shopping center and the refinery. Russia's defense ministry reported shooting down 555 drones nationwide, 1
Owners seek jail for activists occupying former Ardee House pub in Dublin’s Liberties despite court order
The owners of a former pub in Dublin's Liberties have called for activists occupying the building to be jailed, despite a court order requiring them to vacate the premises.
Call for garda checkpoint at Limerick estate as residents ‘trapped in homes’ on match days
Residents of an estate in Limerick have called for a Garda checkpoint to address concerns about anti-social behavior and safety issues during match days, when they feel 'trapped in their homes'.
Arrest made after garda struck by car he pulled over on Kildare motorway
An arrest was made following an incident where a garda (Irish police officer) was struck by a car he had pulled over on the Kildare motorway.
Solicitor who misappropriated client funds struck off
A solicitor found guilty of misappropriating client funds has been struck off by the Law Society of Ireland.

Six people, including a number of children, hospitalised after fire severely damages Dublin home
Six people, including several children, were hospitalized following a fire that severely damaged a home in west Finglas, Dublin. Emergency services, including Gardaí, Dublin Fire Brigade, and other agencies, responded to the incident in the early hours of Thursday morning. The fire was brought under control by shortly before 2:30 am, and the incident was officially closed at 4:47 am. It is currently unknown what caused the fire. A member of Dublin City Council has contacted the affected family regarding alternative housing.
Ireland to host secret gathering of political, tech, finance and defence elites - leaked report
A leaked report suggests that Ireland will host a secret gathering involving political, technology, finance, and defense elites.
‘Our position regarding Israeli football remains unchanged and unequivocal’ — Palestinian FA denies backing FAI’s decision to play Israel match
The Palestinian Football Association has denied supporting the Football Association of Ireland's decision to play a friendly match against Israel. The Palestinian FA reiterated its stance that it does not recognize Israeli football teams.

Graham Norton secures court order forcing Meta to disclose those behind ‘harassing’ posts
Broadcaster Graham Norton has obtained a US court order requiring Meta to disclose the identity of the person behind a Facebook account named 'The Westminster Wire,' which has posted false and harassing content about him. The page allegedly contains fabricated articles and AI-generated images suggesting Norton made racist, xenophobic, and anti-immigrant remarks. Norton's legal team claims the content is untrue and damaging to his reputation. The court has allowed Norton's team to request information from Meta to identify the account holder, as they cannot pursue legal action in England without
A Dublin father-of-four has been crowned Ireland’s Number One Dad
A father from Dublin with four children has been named Ireland's top dad.
Stronger safety measures required for students getting off bus outside North Cork school
The article reports that stronger safety measures are needed for students disembarking from buses at a school in North Cork.
Government should hold referendum on right to housing and keep eviction ban ‘under review’, says new report
A new report has recommended that the Irish government consider holding a referendum on the right to housing and maintain the current eviction ban under continuous review.
Kingfishr announces 2027 shows for Dublin, Belfast and Limerick
Kingfishr has announced plans for concerts in Dublin, Belfast, and Limerick in 2027.

Convicted paedophile Bill Kenneally dies in prison
Convicted paedophile Bill Kenneally has died in prison while serving a 19-year sentence for historic abuse of boys in Waterford. He was 75 years old and had complex health issues requiring palliative care. His death occurred at Midlands Prison, and authorities have confirmed they will investigate the circumstances. The Irish Prison Service stated all deaths in custody are reviewed by relevant agencies, including the Inspector of Prisons and An Garda Síochána, with the coroner determining the cause of death. Next of kin have been notified. Kenneally was not scheduled for release until 2030. His
‘I always pop in for a chat, I never charge’ – meet the ‘community hero’ traders, voted for by their communities
The article introduces 'community hero' traders who have been voted for by their local communities. These traders are described as individuals who engage with customers in a friendly manner and do not charge for their services.
Thomas Tuchel frustrated as photographers ruin ‘emotional’ anthem moment
Thomas Tuchel was reportedly frustrated during an emotional national anthem moment when photographers disrupted the scene.
Renters paying €1,800 a month blocked from 10pc mortgage deposit, Sligo meeting told
A report at a meeting in Sligo indicated that renters who pay €1,800 per month are being prevented from accessing a 10% mortgage deposit.
A walk to Union Rock to take place in solidarity with Palestine
A walk to Union Rock is being organized in solidarity with Palestine.
Noel Horgan: Cork and Offaly renew rivalry as Faithful chase another famous upset
The article mentions that Cork and Offaly are set to renew their rivalry, with Offaly aiming for another famous upset.
Donald Trump says he ‘got all he wanted’ from Iran
Former US President Donald Trump stated that he 'got all he wanted' from Iran.
Patrick Kielty linked to ‘Up for the Match’ as production company Green Inc lands RTÉ contract
The article mentions that Patrick Kielty is linked to the project 'Up for the Match,' while also noting that the production company Green Inc has secured an RTÉ contract.
The Irish Independent’s View: Report should make us rethink our attitude to drinking
The Irish Independent publishes an editorial stating that a recent report should prompt a reevaluation of societal attitudes toward drinking.
Query by Monaghan TD reveals more than half of deportations this year made ‘on grounds of criminality’
A query by a Monaghan TD has revealed that over half of deportations carried out this year were based on 'grounds of criminality'.
LOI Preview - World Cup heroics and more trouble at Derry
The article provides a preview of an upcoming League of Ireland match involving Derry, mentioning 'World Cup heroics' and 'more trouble at Derry.'

Yoanne Wissa gives DR Congo first ever World Cup point in draw with Portugal
In a World Cup Group K match between Portugal and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the DRC secured their first-ever World Cup point with a 1-1 draw. Yoane Wissa scored the equalizer for the DRC, while Portugal's João Neves opened the scoring. Despite the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo, whose impact was limited, the DRC showed resilience to recover from an early deficit and secure a historic result.
‘It is a real honour’ - Rangers appoint Hearts boss and ex-player Derek McInnes to replace Danny Rohl
Rangers have appointed Derek McInnes, currently the manager of Hearts and a former player, to replace Danny Rohl as their new head coach.
Cowboy hats and summer dresses for President Catherine Connolly’s first garden party at the Áras
President Catherine Connolly hosted her first garden party at the Áras, with attendees wearing cowboy hats and summer dresses.
Jane Maguire called up to Ireland’s T20 World Cup squad after in-form Ava Canning ruled out with stress fracture
Jane Maguire has been added to Ireland's T20 World Cup squad following Ava Canning's withdrawal due to a stress fracture.
Mull’s rocket boots | Quarter-finals preview | Verney’s scorelines quiz
Parnell Square trial: Doctors describe treating girl (5) with stab wound over the heart in minutes after alleged attack
Doctors described their treatment of a five-year-old girl who suffered a stab wound over her heart following an alleged attack, during the Parnell Square trial.

Lowe's departure confirmed with winger set for Japan move
James Lowe, a Leinster and Ireland rugby winger, has confirmed he will leave the club at the end of the season after nine years. His departure follows failed contract negotiations with Leinster and rumors of a potential move to Japan's Suntory Sungoliath. Lowe expressed emotional reflections on his time in Ireland, acknowledging the impact the country had on his personal and professional life. He joined Leinster in 2017 and holds the record for most tries scored for the team.
Limerick spends €17m on emergency accommodation as one in 10 homes lie vacant in parts of county
The article reports that Limerick has spent €17 million on emergency accommodation, while noting that one in 10 homes are vacant in certain areas of the county.
'I am the boss' - Donald Trump tells G7 counterparts
Donald Trump asserted his authority by stating 'I am the boss' during interactions with other G7 leaders.
Investigation launched after Clare man (50s) injured in daylight assault
An investigation has been launched following an incident in which a man in his 50s from Clare was injured during a daylight assault.
RNLI rescues five people off the Wexford coast
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) rescued five individuals from the waters off the Wexford coast.
Jeffrey Donaldson leaves Newry Court
Jeffrey Donaldson has left Newry Court.
Dublin student avoids conviction after admitting refusing to pay taxi fare
A Dublin student has avoided a conviction after admitting to refusing to pay a taxi fare.
Romeo Beckham in police stop over phone use and loose dog in Porsche 911
Romeo Beckham was stopped by police regarding alleged phone use while driving and having a loose dog in his Porsche 911.
Plans revealed for new private dog exercise park in Meath
Plans have been unveiled for a new private dog exercise park in County Meath.
New development plans in Meath for large independent living and nursing home
The article mentions new development plans in Meath for a large independent living and nursing home.
Luas services resume after both lines impacted by power outage
Luas services have resumed following a power outage that affected both lines.
Munster poised to sign Irish-qualified former England tighthead Kieran Brookes
Munster is reportedly preparing to sign Kieran Brookes, an Irish-qualified former England tighthead prop.

Government plan for sustainable data centres is like ‘sustainable smoking’, TD says
A Labour TD criticized the Irish government's plan for 'sustainable data centre development' during a debate in the Dáil, comparing it to past claims about 'sustainable smoking.' The TD argued that the government's approach is flawed, as data centres significantly increase energy consumption and drive up electricity costs. Minister of State for Justice Catherine Ardagh defended data centres, stating their importance to Ireland's digital economy. Labour also proposed a levy on data centres and a temporary ban on new construction due to concerns over rising energy demands.

Teenager who died after Waterford collision named as promising cyclist Shane O'Brien
A 16-year-old promising cyclist, Shane O'Brien, died in a road crash in County Waterford. He collided with a parked truck on the N72 near Lismore. Shane was a student at St Colman's College and a junior cyclist with the UK-based team Camsmajaco. Tributes have been paid by Cycling Ireland and his team, highlighting his talent and positive personality.
Teenager who died in Co Waterford crash was tipped to be a future star of Irish cycling
A teenager who died in a crash in County Waterford was described as someone with potential to become a future star in Irish cycling.
Cork HL Division 5: Stronger Midleton side worthy winners over Milford
Midleton secured a victory against Milford in the Cork HL Division 5 match.

Man (33) charged with murder of woman in Co Waterford
A 33-year-old man named Finnegan 'Finn' Yowell has been charged with the murder of 81-year-old Noreen Daly, who was found dead in her home in Ardsallagh, Co Waterford. Yowell was arrested and appeared before Judge John O’Leary in Carrick-on-Suir District Court. He did not respond to the charge after being cautioned. A remand in custody was ordered, and the court mandated medical and psychiatric assessments for Yowell. He is scheduled to reappear in Clonmel District Court on June 23rd.
‘Life-changing’ impact in Cork of a new home on bright display as housing schemes officially open
A new housing scheme has officially opened in Cork, with officials highlighting its 'life-changing' impact on residents.
HSE fined €300,000 after Tullamore hospital data breach
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has been fined €300,000 by the Data Protection Commission following a data breach at Tullamore Hospital.
Dundalk group sweeps the boards of AIMS awards
A Dundalk-based group has won multiple awards at the AIMS awards.
Police save hundreds of cats from slaughter in Vietnam theft ring bust
Police have rescued hundreds of cats from a theft ring in Vietnam that was allegedly planning to sell them for slaughter.
Families of Creeslough explosion victims set to bring fight for answers to Leinster House
Families of victims of the Creeslough explosion are preparing to seek answers through legal action, potentially bringing their case to Leinster House.
Limerick gardaí warn of ‘sophisticated scam’ after woman hands bank card to fraudster at front door
Limerick police have issued a warning about a 'sophisticated scam' following an incident where a woman handed her bank card to a fraudster at her front door.

N11 road bridge, new parks and Naas harbour link among 82 projects approved under housing fund
The Irish government has approved 82 infrastructure projects totaling €1 billion aimed at supporting the development of thousands of new homes. These projects include a road bridge over the N11, new urban parks in Sandyford and Kiltiernan, and a pedestrian bridge linking Naas Harbour. Housing Minister James Browne stated that many of these projects are 'shovel ready' and emphasized collaboration between local authorities and developers to expedite housing delivery. The initiatives are expected to facilitate the construction of 86,000 new homes, with potential for an additional 113,000.
Kerry gun incident leaves residents’ association plans in limbo amid fears of attack on homes
Residents' association plans in Kerry have been put on hold due to concerns following a recent gun incident, with fears that homes could be targeted.
Historic first for Social Democrats as Caroline Winstanley becomes party’s first county council chair
Caroline Winstanley has become the first chair of a county council for the Social Democratic Party in Ireland.
Hacking group claims major hack of Novo Nordisk and attempted $25m extortion
A hacking group has claimed responsibility for a major cyberattack on pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, during which they allegedly attempted to extort $25 million.
Ask a money coach: ‘Our 16-year-old daughter got a summer job, but she still expects her pocket money’
A reader writes to a financial advisor asking for advice on whether their 16-year-old daughter, who has started a summer job, should continue receiving pocket money.
Baltinglass Jotter
The article title 'Baltinglass Jotter' appears to refer to a local column or section in the Irish Independent, likely focusing on community news or events related to Baltinglass, a town in County Wicklow, Ireland. No further details or content are provided in the text.
What’s on in New Ross this week
The article lists events happening in New Ross during the current week.
Shrek and his family thrown in jail in first look at Shrek 5
The article announces a first look at 'Shrek 5,' revealing that Shrek and his family are thrown in jail.