theirishtimes--2020-09-14--Life on the Great Blasket: ‘The one big thing we miss would be the fridge’

Annie Birney and Eoin Boyle , who have spent the summer living on Great Blasket Island , have experienced the Covid-19 crisis like few others .
Earlier this year the Dublin-based couple applied for and won an opportunity to become caretakers on the island – cleaning the holiday homes in the old village for overnight visitors , with spectacular views and the island lifestyle coming as a bonus .
Life for them on the Blaskets should have started in April , but they were not able to land there until the end of June because of lockdown measures introduced in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off the Co Kerry coast without any of the usual luxuries of daily life , the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted on everything they need to do to tend to the visitors – intensive cleaning and strict social distaning – but yet they have separation from much of the daily debate on the issue .
“ We are a little bit removed from the craziness , ” says Boyle .
“ But it ’ s a really important part of our job in terms of dealing with people , to make sure that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and not standing too close .
“ In one sense we ’ ve been busier than we expected .
It ’ s frantic in the mornings , getting people checked out and getting the houses turned over for the new people arriving , so some days we wouldn ’ t get to see very much of the island.
” With most people in Ireland holidaying at home due to restrictions around foreign travel , Boyle and Birney have had to find respite from unlikely sources .
“ It ’ s only in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Francis , where we had a couple of days to ourselves because the boats couldn ’ t sail .
We got a chance to recharge our batteries then , ” says Boyle .
Birney adds that “ in a weird way ” the storms have been “ generally when we ’ ve had time to explore ” to island .
Now their time on the island is nearing an end , although their final departure date of September 30th will be dictated by the climate rather than Covid as they will have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a misty day the couple reflect on what they say has been an enjoyable experience .
“ We can ’ t see any of the other islands ; we can ’ t see the mainland at all .
But it ’ s nice , and we have it nearly to ourselves , ” says Boyle .
“ Down in the old village , Bun a ’ Bhaile , it ’ s incredible to see the houses appearing out of the mist .
There ’ s a charm to the island in this weather @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our towels and our clothes and ourselves dry , we love the windy fresh days , ” says Birney That brings us to the other thing about the island – there ’ s no electricity save a wind turbine to charge phones , which means cold showers and no Netflix .
“ The one big thing we miss would be the fridge , ” Boyle says .
“ It took us a while to get the hang of how to keep food fresh .
We ’ ve figured out that we can usually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our next delivery.
” Birney says : “ Several times when we ’ ve sat down to dinners here we ’ ve thought about the people who lived here all year round , and who depended on the land and the sea for their food .
They must have had incredible skills.
” The pair have grown attached to some elements of rustic life , with a particular fondness for the stove and the half-door in their old-style cottage .
“ I like just leaning on the half-door and looking out , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the front door would be one of my favourite things .
You don ’ t stop seeing it .
The clouds have moved or the light is different and the sea , there ’ s always something new to look at.
” For Birney it ’ s the sounds that are most captivating .
“ Just having the sound of the sea constantly in your ears , there ’ s something incredible about that .
And hearing the seals howling in the night , I don ’ t think I ’ ll ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most amazing and the most lonely sound coming up from the strand , An Trá Bán.
” It has been a great summer for the two , but it ’ s not all dream living .
While the beach is only a five minute stroll away , their stay has involved much hard work .
The significance of times past on the island , which were effectively abandoned in the 1950s due to their shrinking population , has not been lost on them .
“ It ’ s just surreal to walk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ó Criomhthain or Peig , who loomed so large in the history of literature in Ireland , ” Birney says .
“ You ’ re living the history here and I think that ’ s an incredible experience to have .
Sometimes you just have to stop and take it in , even if you ’ re running down with a bag of laundry to the pier before the boat leaves.
” Birney says the last three months have helped her to recognise where her priorities lay and the things that one can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to live in a certain way ” .
“ You realise that getting new clothes or being able to browse in shops at the drop of a hat - is that worth not looking out your window and seeing this view ?
” With just a few weeks to go , the thoughts of leaving is playing on their minds .
“ I think our hearts are going to be broken because there ’ s just the sense even now that there won ’ t be a time in our lives like this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing will be welcome though .
“ The first time we have a hot shower and a big fluffy towel to hop into afterwards is going to be amazing , ” she adds .
Their time on the island has ended up being the catalyst for a new life for the pair .
Having wrapped up their jobs and apartment in Dublin before moving offshore , they plan to relocate to the countryside when the leave Great Blasket .
“ I don ’ t see us heading back to city living anytime soon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were thinking of getting a break from city life for a while but it kept getting put on the long finger , thinking something will come up or something will happen to force us to make that change.
” And happen it did .
Taking a chance by filling out an application form to come to the Blaskets presented them with the opportunity of a lifetime .
“ It ’ s been some experience , ” says Eoin .
“ It ’ s fantastic .
”

Annie Birney and Eoin Boyle, who have spent the summer living on Great Blasket Island, have experienced the Covid-19 crisis like few others.
Earlier this year the Dublin-based couple applied for and won an opportunity to become caretakers on the island – cleaning the holiday homes in the old village for overnight visitors, with spectacular views and the island lifestyle coming as a bonus.
Life for them on the Blaskets should have started in April, but they were not able to land there until the end of June because of lockdown measures introduced in response to coronavirus.
Since then living off the Co Kerry coast without any of the usual luxuries of daily life, the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted on everything they need to do to tend to the visitors – intensive cleaning and strict social distaning – but yet they have separation from much of the daily debate on the issue.
READ MORE
“We are a little bit removed from the craziness,” says Boyle. “But it’s a really important part of our job in terms of dealing with people, to make sure that we’re giving people plenty of space and not standing too close.
“In one sense we’ve been busier than we expected. It’s frantic in the mornings, getting people checked out and getting the houses turned over for the new people arriving, so some days we wouldn’t get to see very much of the island.”
With most people in Ireland holidaying at home due to restrictions around foreign travel, Boyle and Birney have had to find respite from unlikely sources.
“It’s only in the storms, like Storm Ellen and Storm Francis, where we had a couple of days to ourselves because the boats couldn’t sail. We got a chance to recharge our batteries then,” says Boyle.
The view from the half door. “I like just leaning on the half-door and looking out”
Birney adds that “in a weird way” the storms have been “generally when we’ve had time to explore” to island.
Now their time on the island is nearing an end, although their final departure date of September 30th will be dictated by the climate rather than Covid as they will have to leave whenever the weather breaks.
Charm
On a misty day the couple reflect on what they say has been an enjoyable experience. “We can’t see any of the other islands; we can’t see the mainland at all. But it’s nice, and we have it nearly to ourselves,” says Boyle.
“Down in the old village, Bun a’ Bhaile, it’s incredible to see the houses appearing out of the mist. There’s a charm to the island in this weather but for us in terms of keeping our towels and our clothes and ourselves dry, we love the windy fresh days,” says Birney
That brings us to the other thing about the island – there’s no electricity save a wind turbine to charge phones, which means cold showers and no Netflix.
“The one big thing we miss would be the fridge,” Boyle says. “It took us a while to get the hang of how to keep food fresh. We’ve figured out that we can usually get two days out of milk before our next delivery.”
Birney says: “Several times when we’ve sat down to dinners here we’ve thought about the people who lived here all year round, and who depended on the land and the sea for their food. They must have had incredible skills.”
The pair have grown attached to some elements of rustic life, with a particular fondness for the stove and the half-door in their old-style cottage.
“I like just leaning on the half-door and looking out,” says Boyle. “The view from the front door would be one of my favourite things. You don’t stop seeing it. The clouds have moved or the light is different and the sea, there’s always something new to look at.”
For Birney it’s the sounds that are most captivating. “Just having the sound of the sea constantly in your ears, there’s something incredible about that. And hearing the seals howling in the night, I don’t think I’ll ever forget that. It’s just the most amazing and the most lonely sound coming up from the strand, An Trá Bán.”
Hard work
It has been a great summer for the two, but it’s not all dream living. While the beach is only a five minute stroll away, their stay has involved much hard work.
The significance of times past on the island, which were effectively abandoned in the 1950s due to their shrinking population, has not been lost on them.
“It’s just surreal to walk by the house of somebody like Tomás Ó Criomhthain or Peig, who loomed so large in the history of literature in Ireland,” Birney says.
“You’re living the history here and I think that’s an incredible experience to have. Sometimes you just have to stop and take it in, even if you’re running down with a bag of laundry to the pier before the boat leaves.”
Birney says the last three months have helped her to recognise where her priorities lay and the things that one can “sacrifice in order to be able to live in a certain way”.
“You realise that getting new clothes or being able to browse in shops at the drop of a hat - is that worth not looking out your window and seeing this view?”
With just a few weeks to go, the thoughts of leaving is playing on their minds.
“I think our hearts are going to be broken because there’s just the sense even now that there won’t be a time in our lives like this again,” says Birney.
One thing will be welcome though.
“The first time we have a hot shower and a big fluffy towel to hop into afterwards is going to be amazing,” she adds.
Their time on the island has ended up being the catalyst for a new life for the pair. Having wrapped up their jobs and apartment in Dublin before moving offshore, they plan to relocate to the countryside when the leave Great Blasket.
“I don’t see us heading back to city living anytime soon,” says Boyle. “We were thinking of getting a break from city life for a while but it kept getting put on the long finger, thinking something will come up or something will happen to force us to make that change.”
And happen it did.
Taking a chance by filling out an application form to come to the Blaskets presented them with the opportunity of a lifetime.
“It’s been some experience,” says Eoin. “It’s fantastic.”


theirishtimes--2020-09-14--Lawyers expect flurry of legal actions from parents after release of teachers’ estimated grades

Lawyers say the release of teachers ’ estimated percentage marks for Leaving Cert students on Monday is likely to result in a flurry of legal actions from parents whose children “ lost out ” under the calculated grades process .
Around 60,000 Leaving Cert students will be entitled to access their school-issued grades online from 9am and appeal their results .
In more than 20 per cent of cases these grades will differ from students ’ final results which they received last week .
The school-issued grades were adjusted under the Department of Education ’ s standardisation process , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for greater consistency across schools .
A total of 17 per cent of grades were adjusted downwards , while 4 per cent were adjusted upwards .
Brian Gill , head of employment law and commercial litigation at Callan Tansey Solicitors , said the disclosure of teachers ’ estimated grades would be important in determining whether students have sufficient grounds for legal action .
Another legal source , who declined to be named , said they have been contacted by significant numbers of students , parents and schools who feel their grades were disproportionately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many cases students were from “ high-achieving ” schools – including private , non-fee paying and grind schools – where overall grades this year were significantly down on their historical achievement .
This was despite overall grade inflation this year .
“ Teachers ’ estimated grades and their class ranking will be important in determining if students were unfairly treated in the calculated grades process relative to others , ” the lawyer said .
“ That will be crucial in deciding if there are grounds for a judicial review.
” The Government is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the previous administration was warned by the then attorney general that the calculated grades process had “ legal vulnerabilities ” .
Students will not , however , have immediate access to their class ranking , which will show the position students were placed in order of achievement by their teachers .
The department ’ s plan had been to release this data on Monday alongside students ’ estimated grades .
However , it dropped this following lobbying by teachers ’ unions who warned that this information was highly sensitive .
Sources have indicated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a later date following a formal data access or Freedom of Information request .
The appeal process for students ’ grades will be limited to checking if data was entered accurately .
It will not involve reopening teachers ’ decision-making processes which resulted in their estimated grades .
Teachers were advised to “ securely destroy ” any supporting documentation they generated in reaching a decision on a student ’ s grades .
This included drafts of forms , personal notes or emails in which teachers discussed a student ’ s estimated percentage mark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It is understood this was a condition made by teachers ’ unions in signing up to agree to the calculated grades process , along with a full indemnity in the event of any legal action .
Schools were directed to retain only the final forms submitted to the Department of Education which record students ’ final estimated marks and class rankings .

The Government is braced for potential legal actions given that the previous administration was warned by the then attorney general that the calculated grades process had ‘legal vulnerabilities’. Photograph: Getty Images
Lawyers say the release of teachers’ estimated percentage marks for Leaving Cert students on Monday is likely to result in a flurry of legal actions from parents whose children “lost out” under the calculated grades process.
Around 60,000 Leaving Cert students will be entitled to access their school-issued grades online from 9am and appeal their results.
In more than 20 per cent of cases these grades will differ from students’ final results which they received last week.
The school-issued grades were adjusted under the Department of Education’s standardisation process, which moved grades up or down to provide for greater consistency across schools.
READ MORE
A total of 17 per cent of grades were adjusted downwards, while 4 per cent were adjusted upwards.
Brian Gill, head of employment law and commercial litigation at Callan Tansey Solicitors, said the disclosure of teachers' estimated grades would be important in determining whether students have sufficient grounds for legal action.
Another legal source, who declined to be named, said they have been contacted by significant numbers of students, parents and schools who feel their grades were disproportionately lowered under the standardisation process.
In many cases students were from “high-achieving” schools – including private, non-fee paying and grind schools – where overall grades this year were significantly down on their historical achievement. This was despite overall grade inflation this year.
“Teachers’ estimated grades and their class ranking will be important in determining if students were unfairly treated in the calculated grades process relative to others,” the lawyer said. “That will be crucial in deciding if there are grounds for a judicial review.”
The Government is braced for potential legal actions given that the previous administration was warned by the then attorney general that the calculated grades process had “legal vulnerabilities”.
Students will not, however, have immediate access to their class ranking, which will show the position students were placed in order of achievement by their teachers.
The department’s plan had been to release this data on Monday alongside students’ estimated grades. However, it dropped this following lobbying by teachers’ unions who warned that this information was highly sensitive.
Sources have indicated that this information should be available at a later date following a formal data access or Freedom of Information request.
Entered accurately
The appeal process for students’ grades will be limited to checking if data was entered accurately. It will not involve reopening teachers’ decision-making processes which resulted in their estimated grades.
Teachers were advised to “securely destroy” any supporting documentation they generated in reaching a decision on a student’s grades.
This included drafts of forms, personal notes or emails in which teachers discussed a student’s estimated percentage mark or class ranking in a particular subject.
It is understood this was a condition made by teachers’ unions in signing up to agree to the calculated grades process, along with a full indemnity in the event of any legal action.
Schools were directed to retain only the final forms submitted to the Department of Education which record students’ final estimated marks and class rankings.


theirishtimes--2020-09-14--Sale of sex rises since Covid-19 restrictions lifted, advocacy group says

The sale of sex has increased as coronavirus restrictions have lifted and legislation criminalising the purchase of sex must be enforced more effectively , an advocacy group for women in prostitution has warned .
Ruhama , which supports more than 400 women involved in on-street and in-door prostitution a year , said that if buyers of sex are not targeted robustly “ they will continue to operate with impunity ” .
The assertions are made in the organisation ’ s submission to a Government review of part four of the Sexual Offences Act ( 2017 ) , which decriminalises the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Submissions can be made to the Department of Justice until September 19th .
Ruhama was one of 72 civil organisations which , as part of the Turn Off the Red Light campaign , lobbied for the introduction of the legislation broadly based on a Nordic model .
While it enjoys widespread support , it has proved controversial with many sex workers who argue it has left them less safe and more stigmatised as they must be more covert to carry on in their activities .
“ The criminalisation of sex buyers was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reducing the demand that fosters sexual exploitation , ” Ruhama said in its submission .
“ The greatest deterrent to sex buyers is the risk of arrest and public exposure .
The law also sends a clear message to society in general that the purchase of sexual access to vulnerable individuals is not tolerated in a country that values women and girls.
” Ruhama said “ some ” women it supports “ reported feeling more confident to report incidences of violence to An Garda Síochána now that they have been explicitly decriminalised ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ have experienced better outcomes in the criminal justice system , while perpetrators of rapes , assaults and robberies have been held accountable for their actions ” , it adds .
Concerns are raised , however , about inadequate enforcement and insufficient resources to support women to exit prostitution .
“ In 2020 , we have seen no action to date in relation to the targeting of sex buyers in Ireland .
While the Covid pandemic decreased demand , sex buyers did evade lockdown measures to sexually access women in prostitution .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have seen an increase in the numbers of women advertised online once again and an increase in sex buyers contacting them .
This legislation must continue to be enforced and implemented effectively.
” Increased supports for women who wanted to exit prostitution were “ promised at the adoption stage of the law ” but remain inadequate , Ruhama said .
Barriers faced by women seeking to get out of prostitution include poverty , third-party coercion , violence and control from pimps , homelessness , lack of education , post-traumatic stress and substance misuse @

‘As the lockdown has lifted, we have seen an increase in the numbers of women advertised online once again and an increase in sex buyers contacting them.’ Photograph: Getty Images
The sale of sex has increased as coronavirus restrictions have lifted and legislation criminalising the purchase of sex must be enforced more effectively, an advocacy group for women in prostitution has warned.
Ruhama, which supports more than 400 women involved in on-street and in-door prostitution a year, said that if buyers of sex are not targeted robustly "they will continue to operate with impunity".
The assertions are made in the organisation’s submission to a Government review of part four of the Sexual Offences Act (2017), which decriminalises the sale of sex and criminalises its purchase. Submissions can be made to the Department of Justice until September 19th.
Widespread support
Ruhama was one of 72 civil organisations which, as part of the Turn Off the Red Light campaign, lobbied for the introduction of the legislation broadly based on a Nordic model. While it enjoys widespread support, it has proved controversial with many sex workers who argue it has left them less safe and more stigmatised as they must be more covert to carry on in their activities.
READ MORE
“The criminalisation of sex buyers was an important step on the road to reducing the demand that fosters sexual exploitation,” Ruhama said in its submission.
“The greatest deterrent to sex buyers is the risk of arrest and public exposure. The law also sends a clear message to society in general that the purchase of sexual access to vulnerable individuals is not tolerated in a country that values women and girls.”
Ruhama said "some" women it supports "reported feeling more confident to report incidences of violence to An Garda Síochána now that they have been explicitly decriminalised".
Women who suffered violence in prostitution “have experienced better outcomes in the criminal justice system, while perpetrators of rapes, assaults and robberies have been held accountable for their actions”, it adds.
Support
Concerns are raised, however, about inadequate enforcement and insufficient resources to support women to exit prostitution.
"In 2020, we have seen no action to date in relation to the targeting of sex buyers in Ireland. While the Covid pandemic decreased demand, sex buyers did evade lockdown measures to sexually access women in prostitution.
“As the lockdown has lifted, we have seen an increase in the numbers of women advertised online once again and an increase in sex buyers contacting them. This legislation must continue to be enforced and implemented effectively.”
Increased supports for women who wanted to exit prostitution were “promised at the adoption stage of the law” but remain inadequate, Ruhama said.
Barriers faced by women seeking to get out of prostitution include poverty, third-party coercion, violence and control from pimps, homelessness, lack of education, post-traumatic stress and substance misuse.


theirishtimes--2020-09-14--Irish Air Corps pilots are training in Alabama with US military

A decision to send Irish Air Corps pilots to Alabama to train with the US military has been linked by a Defence Forces representative group to shortages of personnel , aircraft and training capacity in the State .
The move was not related to Covid-19 issues , the Government has said , and follows members of the Air Corps last year being sent to Australia for training for up to two years .
The two junior Air Corps pilots commenced a helicopter conversion course last month at the US military ’ s Fort Rucker base in Alabama .
A further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ undertake fixed-wing pilot training at another base in Alabama next month .
The Representative Association of Commissioned Officers ( Raco ) said the pilots were being sent abroad due to a lack of training capacity in Ireland .
Comdt Conor King , Raco ’ s general secretary , said there was a shortage of aircraft , instructors and mechanics which were all vital for training pilots .
“ This will continue for a few years until the Air Corps gets back to something approaching capacity , ” he said of sending pilots abroad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a failure to value talent and retain it ” .
He said it was much more expensive to train pilots abroad .
Comdt King welcomed the fact a small number of Air Corps pilots were re-enlisting , having left to join Ryanair and Aer Lingus , but said the numbers were not enough to offset personnel shortages in the longer term .
There are 724 personnel in the Air Corps at present , well below the figure of 886 which is regarded as the minimum strength it should have .
Overall , there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – between the Army , Naval Service and Air Corps – which has a recommended minimum strength of 9,500 .
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Simon Coveney confirmed in reply to a Dáil question that the decision to send pilots to the US was not related to Covid-19 , as military training in Ireland has resumed after being interrupted by the pandemic .
“ The purpose of this initiative is to improve capacity for training pilots in the Air Corps with the aim of returning pilot strength to full establishment , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore .

Two junior Air Corps pilots have started a helicopter conversion course at Fort Rucker in Alabama. Six more have been earmarked for fixed-wing pilot training at another base in Alabama. File photograph: Alan Betson
A decision to send Irish Air Corps pilots to Alabama to train with the US military has been linked by a Defence Forces representative group to shortages of personnel, aircraft and training capacity in the State.
The move was not related to Covid-19 issues, the Government has said, and follows members of the Air Corps last year being sent to Australia for training for up to two years.
The two junior Air Corps pilots commenced a helicopter conversion course last month at the US military’s Fort Rucker base in Alabama. A further six student pilots have been earmarked to undertake fixed-wing pilot training at another base in Alabama next month.
Training capacity
The Representative Association of Commissioned Officers (Raco)said the pilots were being sent abroad due to a lack of training capacity in Ireland.
READ MORE
Comdt Conor King, Raco’s general secretary, said there was a shortage of aircraft, instructors and mechanics which were all vital for training pilots.
“This will continue for a few years until the Air Corps gets back to something approaching capacity,” he said of sending pilots abroad, adding it was “symptomatic of a failure to value talent and retain it”. He said it was much more expensive to train pilots abroad.
Comdt King welcomed the fact a small number of Air Corps pilots were re-enlisting, having left to join Ryanair and Aer Lingus, but said the numbers were not enough to offset personnel shortages in the longer term.
Headcount shortfall
There are 724 personnel in the Air Corps at present, well below the figure of 886 which is regarded as the minimum strength it should have. Overall, there were 8,412 personnel in the Defence Forces – between the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps – which has a recommended minimum strength of 9,500.
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Simon Coveney confirmed in reply to a Dáil question that the decision to send pilots to the US was not related to Covid-19, as military training in Ireland has resumed after being interrupted by the pandemic .
“The purpose of this initiative is to improve capacity for training pilots in the Air Corps with the aim of returning pilot strength to full establishment,” he said in response to a question from Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore.


theirishtimes--2020-09-14--Defective Celtic Tiger homes to be focus of new working group

Minister for Housing Darragh O ’ Brien has committed to setting up a working group to examine potential solutions for owners of homes impacted by the legacy of shoddy Celtic Tiger building practices .
Mr O ’ Brien told The Irish Times he would be open to examining low-cost loans , a remediation scheme or tax breaks to repair defects if they were recommended by the group .
The working group will include departmental officials and those whose homes have been affected by fire-safety and other issues .
In addition to examining financial solutions , it will seek to establish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been estimated by advocacy groups that some 92,000 apartments in the State could be affected by these defects , which have led in some instances to blocks being evacuated , and often leave unsuspecting homeowners with bills of tens of thousands of euro to make their properties safe .
“ I ’ m absolutely committed to doing it , ” Mr O ’ Brien said of examining the issue and providing support if recommended by the group .
He has asked senior officials to draw up terms of reference for the working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his appointment as Minister .
However , any final scheme to help property owners would require approval from the Government , Mr O ’ Brien ’ s spokeswoman said .
The programme for government commits the Coalition to examining options for those impacted to access low-cost , long-term finance .
A Department of Finance analysis carried out earlier this year suggests that “ direct expenditure would be a more equitable way to assist all affected persons as not all individuals would pay sufficient tax ” to benefit from a tax break .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assistance to those impacted by building defects , wary of the potential for an open-ended liability to emerge for the exchequer .
The Department of Housing is understood to be wary of repeating the experience of the State-funded pyrite remediation scheme , which cost tens of millions for repairs to private homes at an average cost of some €70,000 each .
Eoghan Murphy , Mr O ’ Brien ’ s predecessor , had argued it was not possible for the State to take on responsibility or liability for all legacy issues of defective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Defects Alliance , which represents affected homeowners , said a huge number of people with defective homes were “ ducking for cover ” and hoping the issues would “ go away ” rather than coming forward .
He said that if some of the working group ’ s hearings were open to the public it could encourage more people to do so .

Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien: will establish a working group to look at solutions for owners of homes impacted by flawed building practices. Photograph: Gareth Chaney
Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien has committed to setting up a working group to examine potential solutions for owners of homes impacted by the legacy of shoddy Celtic Tiger building practices.
Mr O’Brien told The Irish Times he would be open to examining low-cost loans, a remediation scheme or tax breaks to repair defects if they were recommended by the group.
The working group will include departmental officials and those whose homes have been affected by fire-safety and other issues. In addition to examining financial solutions, it will seek to establish how widespread the issues are.
It has been estimated by advocacy groups that some 92,000 apartments in the State could be affected by these defects, which have led in some instances to blocks being evacuated, and often leave unsuspecting homeowners with bills of tens of thousands of euro to make their properties safe.
READ MORE
Terms of reference
“I’m absolutely committed to doing it,” Mr O’Brien said of examining the issue and providing support if recommended by the group.
He has asked senior officials to draw up terms of reference for the working group, having met impacted homeowners since his appointment as Minister. However, any final scheme to help property owners would require approval from the Government, Mr O’Brien’s spokeswoman said.
The programme for government commits the Coalition to examining options for those impacted to access low-cost, long-term finance.
A Department of Finance analysis carried out earlier this year suggests that "direct expenditure would be a more equitable way to assist all affected persons as not all individuals would pay sufficient tax" to benefit from a tax break.
Building defects
The State has traditionally been reticent to offer assistance to those impacted by building defects, wary of the potential for an open-ended liability to emerge for the exchequer.
The Department of Housing is understood to be wary of repeating the experience of the State-funded pyrite remediation scheme, which cost tens of millions for repairs to private homes at an average cost of some €70,000 each.
Eoghan Murphy, Mr O'Brien's predecessor, had argued it was not possible for the State to take on responsibility or liability for all legacy issues of defective buildings.
A spokesman for the Construction Defects Alliance, which represents affected homeowners, said a huge number of people with defective homes were “ducking for cover” and hoping the issues would “go away” rather than coming forward. He said that if some of the working group’s hearings were open to the public it could encourage more people to do so.


theirishtimes--2020-09-14--Calculated grades process: Agent of warped bias or great leveller?

After logging on to the Leaving Cert results website last week , Saoirse Corbett Fitzpatrick felt devastated .
“ My single focus for the last two years has been my Leaving Cert , ” she says .
“ I was getting up at 6am , getting to school for between 7am and 7.30am , doing 70-hour weeks .
“ I was working hard all weekend , making sacrifices in my social life , giving up hockey to dedicate more time to study .
.
.
I was happy to do that because all my work was rewarded with the grades @ @ @ @ @ @ @ final calculated grades , however , came as a shock .
Her teachers ’ estimated grades were lowered across six subjects and her CAO points tally was about 60 below what she had anticipated .
In the process , she missed out on her dream college course of medicine .
Saorise , a student at the Institute of Education grind school on Dublin ’ s Leeson Street , was not alone in her disappointment .
The institute says 96 per cent of its students had a grade reduced and 44 per cent of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lowered .
This compared to a national average of 17 per cent of teachers ’ grades being reduced .
More significantly , it says , the school ’ s level of achievement was significantly lower this year than in previous years .
Peter Kearns , the institute ’ s director , says the school ’ s proportion of H1s in French is normally about four times the national average .
Last week , it fell to twice the average .
“ These are young people who are ambitious and want to do well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look , no one is to blame .
People make mistakes .
It was an unintended consequence , but there should be justice for these students.
” Many top-performing schools in the country – both private and non-fee paying – feel they have lost out , with their grades down in many areas on past years .
Schools with a strong track record in individual subjects also feel they were unfairly grades .
Across the city in Ballyfermot last week , there was a very different reaction .
Three schools – St Dominic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s College and Caritas College – were celebrating offers to some of Ireland ’ s top universities .
St Dominic ’ s , for example , secured its highest-ever overall Leaving Cert performance .
A breakdown of the calculated grades shows the proportion of downgrades for students in disadvantaged or Deis schools is smaller ( 13.6 per cent ) compared with other schools ( 16.8 per cent ) .
So , is the story of calculated grades a simple story of winners and losers : was there was “ warped bias ” against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the achievement levels of underperforming schools ?
The Department of Education has said the calculated grades process was “ blind ” and there is no evidence of bias towards any school type .
While it has not commented on individual schools , Government sources feel the new system delivered results in the fairest way possible , with an overall increase in grades for schools .
Government sources acknowledged there were issues in the standardisation process which did not necessarily pick up clusters of exceptional performance in subjects due to the way students ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scores ; these , in turn , had an impact on how grades were awarded .
For Sarah Green , principal of St Dominic ’ s College , the notion that Deis schools won out at the expense of high-achieving schools is a lazy assumption .
For example , she says the points achieved by individual students ranged from 37 to 601 .
“ It ’ s simplistic to say Deis schools did brilliantly and top schools didn ’ t , ” she says .
“ Yes , we ’ re celebrating our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over 500 points , but we had 10 students who also scored under 100 points .
“ They were an excellent Leaving Cert group .
The calculated grades process allowed for the potential of these girls to be recognised in ways that the normal exams don ’ t .
“ If you imagine working part-time job right up to your exams , would you perform as well ?
If you ’ ve a parent with addiction problems who is off the walls all weekend , can you perform as well ?
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or space to study , how will you perform ?
”

Institute of Education on Lower Leeson Street: 44 per cent of teachers’ estimated grades were lowered. This compares with a national average of 17 per cent. File photograph: Alan Betson
After logging on to the Leaving Cert results website last week, Saoirse Corbett Fitzpatrick felt devastated.
“My single focus for the last two years has been my Leaving Cert,” she says. “I was getting up at 6am, getting to school for between 7am and 7.30am, doing 70-hour weeks.
“I was working hard all weekend, making sacrifices in my social life, giving up hockey to dedicate more time to study . . . I was happy to do that because all my work was rewarded with the grades I got during those years.”
The final calculated grades, however, came as a shock.
READ MORE
Her teachers' estimated grades were lowered across six subjects and her CAO points tally was about 60 below what she had anticipated. In the process, she missed out on her dream college course of medicine.
Saorise, a student at the Institute of Education grind school on Dublin’s Leeson Street, was not alone in her disappointment.
The institute says 96 per cent of its students had a grade reduced and 44 per cent of all its teachers’ estimated grades were lowered. This compared to a national average of 17 per cent of teachers’ grades being reduced.
More significantly, it says, the school’s level of achievement was significantly lower this year than in previous years.
Peter Kearns, the institute's director, says the school's proportion of H1s in French is normally about four times the national average. Last week, it fell to twice the average.
Notion of ‘justice’
“These are young people who are ambitious and want to do well in their academic career . . . look, no one is to blame. People make mistakes. It was an unintended consequence, but there should be justice for these students.”
Many top-performing schools in the country – both private and non-fee paying – feel they have lost out, with their grades down in many areas on past years. Schools with a strong track record in individual subjects also feel they were unfairly graded.
Across the city in Ballyfermot last week, there was a very different reaction. Three schools – St Dominic's College, St John's College and Caritas College – were celebrating offers to some of Ireland's top universities. St Dominic's, for example, secured its highest-ever overall Leaving Cert performance.
A breakdown of the calculated grades shows the proportion of downgrades for students in disadvantaged or Deis schools is smaller (13.6 per cent) compared with other schools (16.8 per cent).
So, is the story of calculated grades a simple story of winners and losers: was there was “warped bias” against top-performing schools - as one private school principal put it - and a strategy to boost the achievement of underperforming schools?
The Department of Education has said the calculated grades process was “blind” and there is no evidence of bias towards any school type.
Exceptional performance
Government sources have acknowledged, however, there were issues in the standardisation process which did not necessarily pick up clusters of exceptional performance in subjects due to the way students' Junior Cert results were combined into composite scores; these, in turn, had an impact on how grades were awarded.
The late decision to withdraw "school profiling" - a measure which proved highly controversial in the UK on the basis that it was seen to penalise disadvantaged students - may also have played a role.
There is a concern with Government that the entire standardisation system could get unravalled by pulling a “loose thread” for a handful of schools.
The official line from the Government in the meantime, however, is that the system delivered results in the fairest way possible, with an overall increase in grades for schools.
For Sarah Green, principal of St Dominic's College, the notion that Deis schools won out at the expense of high-achieving schools is a lazy assumption. For example, she says the points achieved by individual students ranged from 37 to 601.
“It’s simplistic to say Deis schools did brilliantly and top schools didn’t,” she says. “Yes, we’re celebrating our top four students getting into Trinity with over 500 points, but we had 10 students who also scored under 200 points.
“They were an excellent Leaving Cert group. The calculated grades process allowed for the potential of these girls to be recognised in ways that the normal exams don’t.
“If you imagine working part-time job right up to your exams, would you perform as well? If you’ve a parent with addiction problems who is off the walls all weekend, can you perform as well? If you are learning online and have no laptop or space to study, how will you perform?”


theirishtimes--2020-09-13--North set for start of new Covid-19 restrictions

New restrictions aimed at limiting the spread of coronavirus in parts of Northern Ireland come into effect on Monday .
Limits have been placed on the number of people who can meet in private dwellings indoors and out , and residents have also been asked to avoid unnecessary travel outside the affected areas .
The curbs will apply within the Belfast City Council area and in Ballymena , Co Antrim , as well as the BT43 , BT28 and BT29 postcodes .
In these areas , members of different households are not allowed to meet indoors , with the exception @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one other household and those with caring responsibilities , including childcare .
No more than six people , from no more than two households , are permitted to meet in private gardens .
The restrictions will be in place for a minimum of two weeks .
There had been calls for further clarity over the regulations , which some have criticised as being confusing .
DUP MP Ian Paisley , whose constituency includes Ballymena , told the BBC he was “ completely dissatisfied ” and “ very disappointed ” by the new rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our country down because of Covid , ” he said .
‘ Best will in the world ’ SDLP MP Claire Hanna , who represents South Belfast , said her party supported the new measures but it was “ very important that we ’ re clear with people because even people who are trying , with the best will in the world , to engage are getting confused by some of the messages ” .
Updated guidance published on the NI Direct website explains that the restrictions are “ focused on reducing contacts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everything else was covered with guidance , not regulations .
This was because , the website said , “ positive cases are rising in Northern Ireland , particularly in these areas , ” and it was an attempt to halt the spread of the virus by reducing people ’ s contact with others .
Over the weekend , 191 more people tested positive for coronavirus in Northern Ireland , according to the North ’ s Department of Health .
In total , 8,314 cases have been confirmed in the North since the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on coronavirus-related deaths are not updated at weekends .
According to the department ’ s most recent figures , published on Friday , 568 people with the virus have so far died in the North .
Meanwhile , four out of every five doctors in Northern Ireland believe a second peak of Covid-19 is likely or very likely to happen within the next six months , according to a survey published on Monday by the British Medical Association ( BMA ) .
Dr Tom Black , the chair of the BMA ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ rightly worried that we have not been able to get this disease under control .
“ From this survey , we can see that doctors think we need two things to prevent a second , worse peak of Covid-19 : a fit-for-purpose track-and-trace system ; and a coherent , rapid and consistent approach to getting local outbreaks under control , ” he said .
“ Last week the Executive made the right moves in that direction with localised lockdowns and alongside that we need clear messages for the general public so they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do and why .
”

New restrictions aimed at limiting the spread of coronavirus in parts of Northern Ireland come into effect on Monday.
Limits have been placed on the number of people who can meet in private dwellings indoors and out, and residents have also been asked to avoid unnecessary travel outside the affected areas.
The curbs will apply within the Belfast City Council area and in Ballymena, Co Antrim, as well as the BT43, BT28 and BT29 postcodes.
Hospital Report
In these areas, members of different households are not allowed to meet indoors, with the exception of those in a social bubble with one other household and those with caring responsibilities, including childcare. No more than six people, from no more than two households, are permitted to meet in private gardens. The restrictions will be in place for a minimum of two weeks.
READ MORE
There had been calls for further clarity over the regulations, which some have criticised as being confusing.
DUP MP Ian Paisley, whose constituency includes Ballymena, told the BBC he was "completely dissatisfied" and "very disappointed" by the new rules.
“We can’t close our country down because of Covid,” he said.
‘Best will in the world’
SDLP MP Claire Hanna, who represents South Belfast, said her party supported the new measures but it was "very important that we're clear with people because even people who are trying, with the best will in the world, to engage are getting confused by some of the messages".
Updated guidance published on the NI Direct website explains that the restrictions are “focused on reducing contacts between people in household settings” and everything else was covered with guidance, not regulations.
This was because, the website said, “positive cases are rising in Northern Ireland, particularly in these areas,” and it was an attempt to halt the spread of the virus by reducing people’s contact with others.
Over the weekend, 191 more people tested positive for coronavirus in Northern Ireland, according to the North's Department of Health. In total, 8,314 cases have been confirmed in the North since the pandemic began.
Northern Ireland’s figures on coronavirus-related deaths are not updated at weekends. According to the department’s most recent figures, published on Friday, 568 people with the virus have so far died in the North.
Second peak
Meanwhile, four out of every five doctors in Northern Ireland believe a second peak of Covid-19 is likely or very likely to happen within the next six months, according to a survey published on Monday by the British Medical Association (BMA).
Dr Tom Black, the chair of the BMA's Northern Ireland Council, said members were "rightly worried that we have not been able to get this disease under control.
“From this survey, we can see that doctors think we need two things to prevent a second, worse peak of Covid-19: a fit-for-purpose track-and-trace system; and a coherent, rapid and consistent approach to getting local outbreaks under control,” he said.
“Last week the Executive made the right moves in that direction with localised lockdowns and alongside that we need clear messages for the general public so they understand what they are being asked to do and why.”


theirishtimes--2020-09-13--Student rents to remain high as Covid-19 outweighed by other factors

There is no evidence of a fall in rents relating to Covid-19 for students heading to college this autumn due to an ongoing shortage of supply , according to a new study .
The Daft Student Housing Report found the average asking price in Dublin for a room in a shared property was €680 a month , up 0.3 percent on the same time last year .
In other parts of the country , the average rent was €462 a month , up 2.8 per cent year on year .
The rent sought for a full property increased by 1.2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to July but was largely unchanged in Dublin city , rising by just 0.2 per cent .
The increase comes despite many colleges offering courses partially online , which may have led some students not to seek accommodation until early next year .
Many prospective students had been hoping that a reduction in the number of students coming to Ireland from overseas due to the pandemic would have meant less competition and lower prices for accommodation .
Daft.ie said there had been “ a large increase in the college-going age cohort ” as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rates and international student numbers ” .
This had resulted in increased demand for purpose-built student accommodation , it said .
Ronan Lyons , report author and economist at Trinity College Dublin , said students preparing for the 2020-2021 academic year would see little evidence “ of any Covid-19 effect on rents ” .
“ Indeed , in most market segments of interest to students , rents may if anything be slightly higher than last year .
Given large increases in rents in recent years , a year with largely unchanged rents is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” he said .
“ Substantial growth in student numbers over the coming decade – largely driven by a natural increase in the college-age cohort – means that the country needs significant construction of purpose-built student accommodation .
Recent building has been concentrated in Dublin but the shortfall , of between 20,000 and 25,000 units , is spread around the major cities , ” he said .

There is no evidence of a fall in rents relating to Covid-19 for students heading to college this autumn due to an ongoing shortage of supply, according to a new study.
The Daft Student Housing Report found the average asking price in Dublin for a room in a shared property was €680 a month, up 0.3 per cent on the same time last year. In other parts of the country, the average rent was €462 a month, up 2.8 per cent year on year.
The rent sought for a full property increased by 1.2 per cent on average in the year to July but was largely unchanged in Dublin city, rising by just 0.2 per cent.
The increase comes despite many colleges offering courses partially online, which may have led some students not to seek accommodation until early next year.
READ MORE
Many prospective students had been hoping that a reduction in the number of students coming to Ireland from overseas due to the pandemic would have meant less competition and lower prices for accommodation.
Increased demand
Daft.ie said there had been “a large increase in the college-going age cohort” as well as “further increases in enrolment rates and international student numbers”. This had resulted in increased demand for purpose-built student accommodation, it said.
Ronan Lyons, report author and economist at Trinity College Dublin, said students preparing for the 2020-2021 academic year would see little evidence “of any Covid-19 effect on rents”.
“Indeed, in most market segments of interest to students, rents may if anything be slightly higher than last year. Given large increases in rents in recent years, a year with largely unchanged rents is perhaps not the worst outcome for students,” he said.
“Substantial growth in student numbers over the coming decade – largely driven by a natural increase in the college-age cohort – means that the country needs significant construction of purpose-built student accommodation. Recent building has been concentrated in Dublin but the shortfall, of between 20,000 and 25,000 units, is spread around the major cities,” he said.


theirishtimes--2020-09-13--Click for home: The best Irish websites for online shoppers

Last week we ran an item on the move online by many small Irish businesses and the desire amongst consumers who shop online to shop local during this time of unprecedented crisis as an act of solidarity .
Rather than just talking about it , we asked Twitter users to recommend local businesses .
The response was massive and we got in excess of 1,000 recommendations .
There were also a few people who said the only options when it comes to online shopping are giant international companies .
That could not be further from the truth .
The only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of great Irish sites here .
ollysfarm.ie Looking for Dublin honey ?
Then look no further than this site , which has a range of 100 per cent raw Irish honeys including heather , blossom and softset honey from different apiaries around Dublin and Wicklow .
harvestday.ie A site which has the aim of creating “ transparency around the food we eat .
Weekly deliveries of locally sourced , organically grown produce , direct from small-scale farms in your community.
” gourmettartco.com A bakery beloved of Galway people for a long time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expanded , which means more people across the country will be able to experience the delightful treats and hampers .
allirelandfoods.ie All Ireland Foods is a family business based in Enniscorthy , Co Wexford , and its aim is “ to encourage Irish food producers , growers , and cottage industries to sell and export their products online ” .
We like their motto : “ ‘ If it ’ s not grown , raised or produced in Ireland , or caught on Irish-registered trawlers it will not be sold on our site.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ rarely goes unmentioned anytime we ask people to recommend good places to shop local , and so it was this time .
The Waterford-based supermarket has moved into the online delivery space in a big way in recent times , and has widened its service to include nationwide delivery for just €6.95 per order .
hazelmountainchocolate.com We ’ ve not actually tasted the chocolate from the Burren but we do love the sound of it .
essentialfoodtrails.com/farmers-market-store-2 We love this site which brings farmers ’ markets into a virtual world and a wider @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smoked fish for a special occasion , you could run into Lidl or Aldi and get something cheap – or you could go direct to an Irish business and have it delivered straight to your door .
Sure , it will cost a bit more but it will be a whole lot better .
neighbourfood.ie This foodie heaven is another one that brings small producers to your front door – or at east to a collection point near you .
A great idea that deserves support .
calveysachillmountainlamb.ie The name of the site @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to your front door .
greengrocerathome.com Full disclosure : this is Pricewatch ’ s local greengrocer and we have been shopping on the site almost since the start of the lockdown .
We can ’ t sing its praises loudly enough if you ’ re lucky enough to live in its delivery area .
unglu-d.ie A dedicated gluten-free food business with its own range of sauces and seasonings made locally in Co Louth .
They come in handy 100ml bottles , so will make for lovely gifts .
The folk behind it also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about GF .
ballymakennyfarm.com Not all potatoes are made equal , as a quick browse here will make very clear .
Along side the potato varieties you ’ ll not have heard of , they also do bundles of queens and broccoli which look lovely .
buyirishfood.ie We don ’ t have enough space to include more of the wonderful Irish food businesses that have moved into the online space , but this site has a whole lot more of them .
thecounterdeli.com If you are looking for wine , sweet treats , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it all here .
gubbeenfarmhouseproducts.com Gubbeen has been one of the stars of the Irish food sector for years , and its pork and cheese products are available for delivery through the website .
jameswhelanbutchers.com One of the finest butchers in Ireland , with a vast array of cuts from the very high end to the everyday .
kishfish.ie The fish folk have launched an online delivery service with everything delivered in cooler boxes .
sheridanscheesemongers.com All the cheese , cured meats , crackers and other accoutrements you could want straight to your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a fan of this Dublin shop when in need of a fun and funky last-minute stocking filler .
.
.
and no , we are not mentioning the word , not yet .
The website is also pretty fantastic .
cogsthebrainshop.ie Cogs the Brain Shop has a physical presence in the Stephen ’ s Green Centre in Dublin , and an excellent site for games and toys that children will love .
greenoutlook.ie Irish-based , with more than 25 Irish suppliers offering lifestyle products including shampoo bars , safety razors , natural skincare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This Waterford business was only born in March , and all the soy candles are handmade using sustainable and natural ingredients at the owner ’ s kitchen table .
drumgreenagh.com Described by its owners as “ a one-stop-gift-for-me shop based in Galway , full of made local delights .
.
.
stuff that ’ s a little bit different from the usual fare.
” Clothes , candles , ceramics , jewellery and a whole lot more besides .
hensteethstore.com A lovely site selling lovely things and well worth a look for anyone in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they care about .
.
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or themselves .
scoutdublin.com Clothes , shoes , homewares , kids ’ stuff and a whole lot more .
The site ’ s ethos is to provide “ a range of timeless products that steer clear from trends , instead offering functionality , good design and longevity ” and to support “ the wealth of talent in Ireland ’ s thriving design scene ” .
slated.ie Irish Family design studio creating ( the hint is in the name ) slate tableware and personalised gifts .
irishdesignshop.com A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ work of Ireland ’ s most exciting designer makers ” .
It has both an online presence and a bricks-and-mortar shop in Dublin .
designireland.ie There is a limit to the number of sites we can feature here .
There is a whole lot more to be found here .
mimiandmartha.com A new online store working with more than 40 makers and designers , with a big focus on local design .
You will find tasty food , gifts , homewares and lifestyley things .
woodenheart.ie If you are in the market @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virtually disposable , then take advantage of the Wooden Heart people , with a significant online presence complementing their shop in the heart of Galway .
jamartprints.com Artists fill the gallery with fresh concepts in print , using both traditional and contemporary techniques .
The site stocks ceramics , textiles , jewellery and street art “ in strange and wonderful forms ” , with the owners saying they are “ always working with the artists to create exciting new designs ” .
sijewelleryireland.com Ailish from Sí Jewellery custom-makes jewellery , tie bars , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and quote .
She can also make ashes- and hair-infused memorial pieces .
thewordbird.eu This is the home of personalised and original pre-printed word art by Susan Brambell .
The idea is brilliant .
You provide her with a list of words and she makes them into a shape of your choice .
The result is a lovely , personalised text art gift .
There are also pre-done options if you ’ re lost for words .
marketstreet.ie “ Indulge yourself or delight a loved one with our individually crafted gifts , made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ love by over 100 passionate and creative Irish makers and designers.
” That is how this site describes itself and we can ’ t do any better than that .
thecatandthemoon.ie In their own words , the people behind this site are “ purveyors of unique studio handcrafts and jewellery .
Everything we sell is designed and fully handmade by artisans living and working in Ireland.
” myshopgranny.com This is an online platform stuffed to the gills with novel gift ideas and well worth a visit .
chupi.com If you are in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care about you won ’ t go wrong with this acclaimed jeweller .
bababox.ie A Dublin-based site which specialises in gifts for mums and babies .
They tell Pricewatch that lots of their stockists are also small independent Irish businesses .
ceramicsbyetaoinoreilly.com A small but beautiful range of hand-thrown ceramics made by Etaoin O ’ Reilly , with jugs , diffusers , cups and decorations for that time of year that we ’ ll not be mentioning just yet .
samagusnessa.com All manner of gifts made by Irish hands using sustainable Irish wood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ giftware store with a strong emphasis on sustainability .
29bridestreet.com Sustainably designed and screen-printed lifestyle products and accessories made entirely by hand in Dublin by Liz Walsh .
There ’ s free shipping on all orders over €50 .
thekind.co A gorgeous online platform containing stock from more than 30 local businesses , with everything from kitchenware to kids toys .
Everything is eco-friendly and ethically sourced .
blaithinennis.com Multi-award winning jewellery brand , with all the pieces handmade from a studio in the south east .
etsy.com Now , this obviously is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are loads of Irish people selling on the platform .
Here ’ s how you find them .
You search for what you want and when the results come up you can apply a “ shop location ” filter which allows you to see only sellers based in this country .
happiclose.ie HappiClose is an Irish company which makes children ’ s clothes that are easy to fit and fasten .
“ Special baby-soft Velcro is used for fastening .
These clothes are highly adaptive , being particularly suitable for children who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says .
sockcoop.com Socks of Ireland ?
Yes , they ’ re a thing now and the world is a better place for that .
electronicsheep.com Very cool scarves and jumpers and – more recently – masks .
siolog.ie A collection of high-quality , ethically made childrenswear and lifestyle products from independent Irish brands .
duesouth.ie Ethically made T-shirts and hoodies .
Oh , and sunglasses made out of recycled skateboards – what ’ s not to love about that ?
avoca.com We could have put this shop into almost any category , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but it still sells a lot of Irish-made products .
And at the time of writing – last Wednesday – it was still having a sale .
hairybaby.com Can there be a Pricewatch reader who has not heard of this website ?
We have certainly plugged the T-shirt ( and more recently mask ) people enough .
And they deserve it .
louiscopeland.com An old-school tailor in a brave new world If you are looking for fancy clobber or cufflinks or bags and stuff , you will find it all here .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ own words – “ an outfit for every occasion .
We offer a great selection of stylish occasion wear for weddings , christenings , communions and confirmations from leading Irish designers including Fee G and Caroline Kilkenny .
Other dressy wear ranges include Chiara Boni La Petite Robe and Stop Staring dresses.
” siopaella.com If you are looking for a place to buy and to sell fancy clobber , you need look no further than here .
ohhbygum.ie A boutique that stocks all sorts of “ eco-chic ” for women and children , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you will struggle to find elsewhere .
beanantees.com This site explains what it is better than we could .
“ Empowering apparel and gifts celebrating wild Irish women and An Ghaeilge .
Designed , embroidered and printed in the hills of Donegal .
Each range supports a different rape crisis , pro choice or LGBTQ+ organisation.
” thecompanyofbooks.ie Ranelagh-based bookshop which offers a click and collect service as well as a book postage services , It can also deliver within 2km of the shop .
charliebyrne.ie No visit to Galway is complete without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The bookshop is the city ’ s largest and most lovely independent bookshop , with new and second-hand books on sale .
Browsing online is obviously not the same , but it is still a thing of wonder .
And the money stays in Ireland .
justbooksmullingar.com Just Books describes itself as “ a unique and charming bookshop located in the heart of Mullingar .
We offer customers the personal touch and that ’ s what makes us stand apart from other bookshops .
We deliver books across Ireland .
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking for , simply contact us and we will try our very best to get it for you.
” That ’ s just one reason why shopping local is so much better than the alternatives .
adamscloud.com We have long loved the books in this collection .
They are full of love and warmth and while they may have been born out of great sadness , they have also given a huge amount of joy to parents and children everywhere and to children ’ s charities across the country .
thebookshop.ie More than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with free delivery on orders of more than €20 .
They have other books that cost more than that too .
Lots and lots of them .
kennys.ie Kenny ’ s celebrates its 80th birthday this year and has the longest-running online bookshop in the world – take that , Amazon .
It also often matches the big boys when it comes to price and beats them when it comes to quality .
gutterbookshop.ie Lovely bookshop run by lovely people in Dublin and Dalkey .
indeora.com A lovely range of magnesium deodorant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and vanilla oils .
We are promised chemical-free products which don ’ t stain .
thehandmadesoapcompany.ie Natural , clean skincare and home fragrance which are entirely free from synthetics .
They are also vegan-friendly and sustainably made by hand in Ireland .
palmfreeirishsoap.ie Could there be better time to be in the soap business than now , when everyone is washing their hands with more vigour than Howard Hughes in a septic tank ?
This Clare-based family business offers an ethical and environmentally friendly alternative to mainstream cleanliness .
connectify.ie Obviously when it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t a lot of it made in Ireland , but at least by shopping with a local retailer , you are contributing to the local economy .
This site is promising next-day delivery on an impressive range of kit .
connscameras.ie As wide a range of camera equipment as you will find almost anywhere – and you can also ring them and walk into their Dublin store , which you can ’ t say about some of the bigger online retailers we could mention .

Last week we ran an item on the move online by many small Irish businesses and the desire amongst consumers who shop online to shop local during this time of unprecedented crisis as an act of solidarity. Rather than just talking about it, we asked Twitter users to recommend local businesses. The response was massive and we got in excess of 1,000 recommendations. There were also a few people who said the only options when it comes to online shopping are giant international companies. That could not be further from the truth. The only pity is that we can only highlight some of great Irish sites here.
FOOD
ollysfarm.ie
Looking for Dublin honey? Then look no further than this site, which has a range of 100 per cent raw Irish honeys including heather, blossom and softset honey from different apiaries around Dublin and Wicklow.
harvestday.ie
A site which has the aim of creating "transparency around the food we eat. Weekly deliveries of locally sourced, organically grown produce, direct from small-scale farms in your community."
gourmettartco.com
A bakery beloved of Galway people for a long time, its online presence is being significantly expanded, which means more people across the country will be able to experience the delightful treats and hampers.
READ MORE
allirelandfoods.ie
All Ireland Foods is a family business based in Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, and its aim is "to encourage Irish food producers, growers, and cottage industries to sell and export their products online". We like their motto: "'If it's not grown, raised or produced in Ireland, or caught on Irish-registered trawlers it will not be sold on our site."
Val Lambe, general manager of Ardkeen Quality Food Store in Waterford City. Photograph: Patrick Browne
ardkeen.com
The Ardkeen Quality Food Store rarely goes unmentioned anytime we ask people to recommend good places to shop local, and so it was this time. The Waterford-based supermarket has moved into the online delivery space in a big way in recent times, and has widened its service to include nationwide delivery for just €6.95 per order.
hazelmountainchocolate.com
We've not actually tasted the chocolate from the Burren but we do love the sound of it.
essentialfoodtrails.com/farmers-market-store-2
We love this site which brings farmers' markets into a virtual world and a wider Irish market.
Frank Hederman smoker frank hederman for mag must credit Sean Monaghan
frankhederman.com
If you want smoked fish for a special occasion, you could run into Lidl or Aldi and get something cheap – or you could go direct to an Irish business and have it delivered straight to your door. Sure, it will cost a bit more but it will be a whole lot better.
neighbourfood.ie
This foodie heaven is another one that brings small producers to your front door – or at east to a collection point near you. A great idea that deserves support.
calveysachillmountainlamb.ie
The name of the site gives it away. Achill Lamb delivered to your front door.
greengrocerathome.com
Full disclosure: this is Pricewatch's local greengrocer and we have been shopping on the site almost since the start of the lockdown. We can't sing its praises loudly enough if you're lucky enough to live in its delivery area.
unglu-d.ie
A dedicated gluten-free food business with its own range of sauces and seasonings made locally in Co Louth. They come in handy 100ml bottles, so will make for lovely gifts. The folk behind it also do classes and help people learn more about GF.
ballymakennyfarm.com
Not all potatoes are made equal, as a quick browse here will make very clear. Along side the potato varieties you'll not have heard of, they also do bundles of queens and broccoli which look lovely.
buyirishfood.ie
We don't have enough space to include more of the wonderful Irish food businesses that have moved into the online space, but this site has a whole lot more of them.
thecounterdeli.com
If you are looking for wine, sweet treats, cheese and coffee, you can find it all here.
gubbeenfarmhouseproducts.com
Gubbeen has been one of the stars of the Irish food sector for years, and its pork and cheese products are available for delivery through the website.
jameswhelanbutchers.com
One of the finest butchers in Ireland, with a vast array of cuts from the very high end to the everyday.
kishfish.ie
The fish folk have launched an online delivery service with everything delivered in cooler boxes.
sheridanscheesemongers.com
All the cheese, cured meats, crackers and other accoutrements you could want straight to your door.
ART/GIFTS
shop.designist.ie
Pricewatch has long been a fan of this Dublin shop when in need of a fun and funky last-minute stocking filler . . . and no, we are not mentioning the word, not yet. The website is also pretty fantastic.
cogsthebrainshop.ie
Cogs the Brain Shop has a physical presence in the Stephen's Green Centre in Dublin, and an excellent site for games and toys that children will love.
greenoutlook.ie
Irish-based, with more than 25 Irish suppliers offering lifestyle products including shampoo bars, safety razors, natural skincare and a whole lot more.
mymilis.com
This Waterford business was only born in March, and all the soy candles are handmade using sustainable and natural ingredients at the owner's kitchen table.
drumgreenagh.com
Described by its owners as "a one-stop-gift-for-me shop based in Galway, full of made local delights . . . stuff that's a little bit different from the usual fare." Clothes, candles, ceramics, jewellery and a whole lot more besides.
hensteethstore.com
A lovely site selling lovely things and well worth a look for anyone in the market for a present for someone they care about . . . or themselves.
scoutdublin.com
Clothes, shoes, homewares, kids' stuff and a whole lot more. The site's ethos is to provide "a range of timeless products that steer clear from trends, instead offering functionality, good design and longevity" and to support "the wealth of talent in Ireland's thriving design scene".
slated.ie
Irish Family design studio creating (the hint is in the name) slate tableware and personalised gifts.
irishdesignshop.com
A site which prides itself on promoting the "work of Ireland's most exciting designer makers". It has both an online presence and a bricks-and-mortar shop in Dublin.
designireland.ie
There is a limit to the number of sites we can feature here. There is a whole lot more to be found here.
mimiandmartha.com
A new online store working with more than 40 makers and designers, with a big focus on local design. You will find tasty food, gifts, homewares and lifestyley things.
woodenheart.ie
If you are in the market for toys which are not plastic and virtually disposable, then take advantage of the Wooden Heart people, with a significant online presence complementing their shop in the heart of Galway.
jamartprints.com
Artists fill the gallery with fresh concepts in print, using both traditional and contemporary techniques. The site stocks ceramics, textiles, jewellery and street art "in strange and wonderful forms", with the owners saying they are "always working with the artists to create exciting new designs".
sijewelleryireland.com
Ailish from Sí Jewellery custom-makes jewellery, tie bars, pocket watches and more with custom images and quote. She can also make ashes- and hair-infused memorial pieces.
thewordbird.eu
This is the home of personalised and original pre-printed word art by Susan Brambell. The idea is brilliant. You provide her with a list of words and she makes them into a shape of your choice. The result is a lovely, personalised text art gift. There are also pre-done options if you're lost for words.
marketstreet.ie
"Indulge yourself or delight a loved one with our individually crafted gifts, made to inspire and charm. Handmade with love by over 100 passionate and creative Irish makers and designers." That is how this site describes itself and we can't do any better than that.
thecatandthemoon.ie
In their own words, the people behind this site are "purveyors of unique studio handcrafts and jewellery. Everything we sell is designed and fully handmade by artisans living and working in Ireland."
myshopgranny.com
This is an online platform stuffed to the gills with novel gift ideas and well worth a visit.
chupi.com
If you are in the market for something special for someone you care about you won't go wrong with this acclaimed jeweller.
bababox.ie
A Dublin-based site which specialises in gifts for mums and babies. They tell Pricewatch that lots of their stockists are also small independent Irish businesses.
ceramicsbyetaoinoreilly.com
A small but beautiful range of hand-thrown ceramics made by Etaoin O'Reilly, with jugs, diffusers, cups and decorations for that time of year that we'll not be mentioning just yet.
samagusnessa.com
All manner of gifts made by Irish hands using sustainable Irish wood.
finderskeepersthestore.ie
A design-led independent home and giftware store with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
29bridestreet.com
Sustainably designed and screen-printed lifestyle products and accessories made entirely by hand in Dublin by Liz Walsh. There's free shipping on all orders over €50.
thekind.co
A gorgeous online platform containing stock from more than 30 local businesses, with everything from kitchenware to kids toys. Everything is eco-friendly and ethically sourced.
blaithinennis.com
Multi-award winning jewellery brand, with all the pieces handmade from a studio in the south east.
etsy.com
Now, this obviously is not an Irish website, but there are loads of Irish people selling on the platform. Here's how you find them. You search for what you want and when the results come up you can apply a "shop location" filter which allows you to see only sellers based in this country.
CLOTHES
happiclose.ie
HappiClose is an Irish company which makes children's clothes that are easy to fit and fasten. "Special baby-soft Velcro is used for fastening. These clothes are highly adaptive, being particularly suitable for children who are difficult to dress," the site says.
sockcoop.com
Socks of Ireland? Yes, they're a thing now and the world is a better place for that.
electronicsheep.com
Very cool scarves and jumpers and – more recently – masks.
siolog.ie
A collection of high-quality, ethically made childrenswear and lifestyle products from independent Irish brands.
duesouth.ie
Ethically made T-shirts and hoodies. Oh, and sunglasses made out of recycled skateboards – what's not to love about that?
avoca.com
We could have put this shop into almost any category, really. Not an Irish-owned shop anymore, but it still sells a lot of Irish-made products. And at the time of writing – last Wednesday – it was still having a sale.
hairybaby.com
Can there be a Pricewatch reader who has not heard of this website? We have certainly plugged the T-shirt (and more recently mask) people enough. And they deserve it.
louiscopeland.com
An old-school tailor in a brave new world If you are looking for fancy clobber or cufflinks or bags and stuff, you will find it all here.
anastasiashop.com
This boutique has – in its own words – "an outfit for every occasion. We offer a great selection of stylish occasion wear for weddings, christenings, communions and confirmations from leading Irish designers including Fee G and Caroline Kilkenny. Other dressy wear ranges include Chiara Boni La Petite Robe and Stop Staring dresses."
siopaella.com
If you are looking for a place to buy and to sell fancy clobber, you need look no further than here.
ohhbygum.ie
A boutique that stocks all sorts of "eco-chic" for women and children, from fairtrade and sustainable fashion labels that you will struggle to find elsewhere.
beanantees.com
This site explains what it is better than we could. "Empowering apparel and gifts celebrating wild Irish women and An Ghaeilge. Designed, embroidered and printed in the hills of Donegal. Each range supports a different rape crisis, pro choice or LGBTQ+ organisation."
The Company of Books bookshop
BOOKS
thecompanyofbooks.ie
Ranelagh-based bookshop which offers a click and collect service as well as a book postage services, It can also deliver within 2km of the shop.
charliebyrne.ie
No visit to Galway is complete without a browse in Charlie Byrne's. The bookshop is the city's largest and most lovely independent bookshop, with new and second-hand books on sale. Browsing online is obviously not the same, but it is still a thing of wonder. And the money stays in Ireland.
justbooksmullingar.com
Just Books describes itself as "a unique and charming bookshop located in the heart of Mullingar. We offer customers the personal touch and that's what makes us stand apart from other bookshops. We deliver books across Ireland. If you don't see what you are looking for, simply contact us and we will try our very best to get it for you." That's just one reason why shopping local is so much better than the alternatives.
adamscloud.com
We have long loved the books in this collection. They are full of love and warmth and while they may have been born out of great sadness, they have also given a huge amount of joy to parents and children everywhere and to children's charities across the country.
thebookshop.ie
More than 50,000 second-hand books at €2 or less, with free delivery on orders of more than €20. They have other books that cost more than that too. Lots and lots of them.
kennys.ie
Kenny's celebrates its 80th birthday this year and has the longest-running online bookshop in the world – take that, Amazon. It also often matches the big boys when it comes to price and beats them when it comes to quality.
gutterbookshop.com
Lovely bookshop run by lovely people in Dublin and Dalkey.
SKINCARE
indeora.com
A lovely range of magnesium deodorant sprays which are scented with natural coconut and vanilla oils. We are promised chemical-free products which don't stain.
thehandmadesoapcompany.ie
Natural, clean skincare and home fragrance which are entirely free from synthetics. They are also vegan-friendly and sustainably made by hand in Ireland.
palmfreeirishsoap.ie
Could there be better time to be in the soap business than now, when everyone is washing their hands with more vigour than Howard Hughes in a septic tank? This Clare-based family business offers an ethical and environmentally friendly alternative to mainstream cleanliness.
TECH
connectify.ie
Obviously when it comes to tech, there isn't a lot of it made in Ireland, but at least by shopping with a local retailer, you are contributing to the local economy. This site is promising next-day delivery on an impressive range of kit.
connscameras.ie
As wide a range of camera equipment as you will find almost anywhere – and you can also ring them and walk into their Dublin store, which you can't say about some of the bigger online retailers we could mention.


theirishtimes--2020-09-13--Garda pressure on Drogheda drug dealers believed to be behind recent graffiti

Pressure on drug dealers in Drogheda by gardaí is believed to be behind graffiti that has appeared around the town in recent weeks .
The most recent incident , on the wall of an estate on the south side of the town , names gardaí and in relation to one says “ 20k on your head ” .
The threats , which are not the first to be spray painted around the town , are seen as a response to the continued pressure on dealers which has resulted in a shortage of drugs and a subsequent increase in price .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are working very hard and have had great support from the community throughout Drogheda .
“ The community sees that these efforts are paying off and as a result the support in the community is increasing.
” Gardaí have seen additional resources allocated to Drogheda to help tackle the gangland feud which has blighted the town for the last couple of years .
With some of the alleged key figures either no longer in the town , or lying low , gardaí are aware that others will try to fill the void that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always be people who are below the radar , who have kept their head down and who have not yet been in trouble [ with the courts ] .
“ Gardaí in Drogheda have had successes in disrupting the drug dealers and the graffiti , like that sprayed over the weekend , is an indication of that , ” said one source .
In their most recent seizure last week , cannabis estimated to be worth €61,000 was found in two separate growhouses along with a small quantity of cannabis herb following a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just outside Drogheda .
The mayor of Drogheda , Kevin Callan , has condemned the graffiti saying , “ any such intimidation of An Garda Síochána or any member of the force must not stand and is totally inconsistent with the support the gardaí receive from the community ” .
“ We will not as a town tolerate this type of thuggery and intimidation and we stand as one with the gardaí who do marvellous work for us all every day and every night , ” he said .
Garda Derek O ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) representative for Co Louth said : “ Garda members are doing their job so well that a small group is trying to intimidate them from continuing to do such a good job .
“ Such threats are a cause of concern .
The GRA ’ s concerns are around the wellbeing and the welfare and of Garda members and there are supports available to them .
“ This form of intimidation is an attack on gardaí , the local community and society as a whole , ” he added .
The Garda @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drogheda are investigating criminal damage to a wall of housing estate in Drogheda town .
The graffiti was reported to gardaí on 12/9/2020 .
Anyone with information is asked to contact Drogheda Garda station .
Enquiries are ongoing .
’

Pressure on drug dealers in Drogheda by gardaí is believed to be behind graffiti that has appeared around the town in recent weeks (pictured). Photograph: Ciara Wilkinson
Pressure on drug dealers in Drogheda by gardaí is believed to be behind graffiti that has appeared around the town in recent weeks.
The most recent incident, on the wall of an estate on the south side of the town, names gardaí and in relation to one says “20k on your head”.
The threats, which are not the first to be spray painted around the town, are seen as a response to the continued pressure on dealers which has resulted in a shortage of drugs and a subsequent increase in price.
One Garda source said: “Gardaí are working very hard and have had great support from the community throughout Drogheda.
READ MORE
“The community sees that these efforts are paying off and as a result the support in the community is increasing.”
Gardaí have seen additional resources allocated to Drogheda to help tackle the gangland feud which has blighted the town for the last couple of years.
With some of the alleged key figures either no longer in the town, or lying low, gardaí are aware that others will try to fill the void that has been left.
“There will always be people who are below the radar, who have kept their head down and who have not yet been in trouble [with the courts].
“Gardaí in Drogheda have had successes in disrupting the drug dealers and the graffiti, like that sprayed over the weekend, is an indication of that,” said one source.
In their most recent seizure last week, cannabis estimated to be worth €61,000 was found in two separate growhouses along with a small quantity of cannabis herb following a search of a house in Baltray, just outside Drogheda.
The mayor of Drogheda, Kevin Callan, has condemned the graffiti saying, "any such intimidation of An Garda Síochána or any member of the force must not stand and is totally inconsistent with the support the gardaí receive from the community".
“We will not as a town tolerate this type of thuggery and intimidation and we stand as one with the gardaí who do marvellous work for us all every day and every night,” he said.
Garda Derek O'Donoghue, Garda Representative Association (GRA) representative for Co Louth said: "Garda members are doing their job so well that a small group is trying to intimidate them from continuing to do such a good job.
“Such threats are a cause of concern. The GRA’s concerns are around the wellbeing and the welfare and of Garda members and there are supports available to them.
“This form of intimidation is an attack on gardaí, the local community and society as a whole,” he added.
The Garda Press Office said: “Gardaí in Drogheda are investigating criminal damage to a wall of housing estate in Drogheda town. The graffiti was reported to gardaí on 12/9/2020. Anyone with information is asked to contact Drogheda Garda station. Enquiries are ongoing.’


theirishtimes--2020-09-13--NUI Galway drops ‘behave responsibly’ pledge requirement

NUI Galway has dropped its mandatory requirement that all students must sign a pledge to adhere to public health advice and “ behave responsibly ” as a condition of registration for the new academic year .
The college announced last month that all students would be required to sign up to a community promise which requires signatories to behave appropriately , consider others and follow public health guidelines .
Any breach of the pledge could trigger disciplinary processes , it said .
The pledge drew protests from a number of students including Simeon Burke , a final year civil law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I became very concerned about it , ” he said .
“ I felt it undermined my rights as an NUI Galway student and threatened my freedom to think for myself .
“ In addition , I was uncomfortable with the requirement to disclose personal health data on an ongoing basis to the university.
” Mr Burke picketed the office of the university president ’ s office last week , raised concerns with university management and recorded a video outlining his concerns on social media , which received more than 100,000 views @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the university ’ s dean of students last week who said the “ community promise is not a condition of registration to the university and you will be able to register in the normal way ” .
Following a request for a public clarification of whether the pledge was no longer mandatory , he said the university updated its website page to state that the students were now “ being asked ” rather than “ required ” to sign the pledge .
When asked to comment , a spokesman for NUI Galway @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ voluntary public commitment ” and separate to registration .
He said the university “ expects ” students and staff to follow university and public health guidelines related to reducing the spread of Covid-19 .
“ The university is working with experts in behavioural change as part of planning for reopening the campus , ” the spokesman said .
“ Voluntary public commitments are a powerful approach to bring about lasting change and cúram dá chéile community promise is separate to registration .
“ For this reason , we ’ ll be creating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff to sign up to and we know the majority of our community want to commit to their health.
” He said the community promise was about working together to keep each other safe .
Mr Burke said the shift in the university ’ s position was important in recognising students ’ rights .
“ Students need to aware of the need to stand up and be clear when it comes to our rights .
Otherwise , things can get bad very quickly .
.
.
This shows that the students shouldn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Final year NUI Galway law student Simeon Burke: “After reading the pledge, I became very concerned. I felt it undermined my rights as an NUI Galway student and threatened my freedom to think for myself.”
NUI Galway has dropped its mandatory requirement that all students must sign a pledge to adhere to public health advice and "behave responsibly"as a condition of registration for the new academic year.
The college announced last month that all students would be required to sign up to a community promise which requires signatories to behave appropriately, consider others and follow public health guidelines. Any breach of the pledge could trigger disciplinary processes, it said.
The pledge drew protests from a number of students including Simeon Burke, a final year civil law student.
“After reading the pledge, I became very concerned about it,” he said. “I felt it undermined my rights as an NUI Galway student and threatened my freedom to think for myself.
READ MORE
“In addition, I was uncomfortable with the requirement to disclose personal health data on an ongoing basis to the university.”
Social media
Mr Burke picketed the office of the university president’s office last week, raised concerns with university management and recorded a video outlining his concerns on social media, which received more than 100,000 views.
He said he received a reply from the university’s dean of students last week who said the “community promise is not a condition of registration to the university and you will be able to register in the normal way”.
Following a request for a public clarification of whether the pledge was no longer mandatory, he said the university updated its website page to state that the students were now “being asked” rather than “required” to sign the pledge.
When asked to comment, a spokesman for NUI Galway confirmed the community promise was now a “voluntary public commitment” and separate to registration.
He said the university “expects” students and staff to follow university and public health guidelines related to reducing the spread of Covid-19.
‘Behavioural change’
“The university is working with experts in behavioural change as part of planning for reopening the campus,” the spokesman said.
“Voluntary public commitments are a powerful approach to bring about lasting change and cúram dá chéile community promise is separate to registration.
“For this reason, we’ll be creating a roll of honour for students and staff to sign up to and we know the majority of our community want to commit to their health.”
He said the community promise was about working together to keep each other safe.
Mr Burke said the shift in the university’s position was important in recognising students’ rights.
“Students need to aware of the need to stand up and be clear when it comes to our rights. Otherwise, things can get bad very quickly . . . This shows that the students shouldn’t hesitate to speak up.”