theirishtimes--2020-11-01--Selection of open days in universities around the country

While university campuses have been closed down and the public can not gather in any significant numbers for the foreseeable future , third-level institutions are using virtual platforms to give prospective students a taste of the lifestyle and study opportunities they offer .
The following is a taste of some open days to look out for in Ireland ’ s universities : What will open days look like : With more than 22,000 students UCC has much to offer .
The college is planning a series of virtual open days to give prospective students and their families an impression of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ll be able to watch presentations and information videos from their chosen subject area and student life sections .
Downloadable programmes and leaflets will be available and prospective students will be able to take a virtual tour of campus and view some of the university ’ s facilities .
A web-chat will be one of the key features where attendees can talk with academic and professional services staff about subjects and supports , as well as talking to current students about life at UCC .
The college has more than 100 societies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also be represented on the day .
Strengths : UCC is ranked in the top 50 of the Times Higher Education Europe Teaching Rankings 2019 .
The university prides itself on access and participation : In 2019-2020 more than 23 per cent of undergraduate admissions were through Access Admission routes .
It is ranked as the ninth most sustainable university in the world and the most sustainable university in Ireland by the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings 2019 .
UCC is also ranked number 32 in the world as one of the leading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world by Times Higher Education .
This is the only global performance table that assesses universities against the United Nations ’ Sustainable Development Goals .
Accommodation : UCC has five purpose-built student apartment complexes run by UCC Campus Accommodation , all situated within walking distance of the main campus .
What ’ s new : UCC ’ s state-of-the-art student hub opened its doors on January 6th last .
It is home to a range of student activities , learning and teaching spaces and facilities including student clubs and societies , academic services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and more .
Don ’ t miss : Upcoming talks and workshops .
Keep an eye on ucc.ie for updates on talks for parents , prospective students and live Q & A sessions .
What will open days look like : As with other colleges , Maynooth University ’ s open days will be in a virtual format this year .
They will offer prospective students a comprehensive overview of student life at Maynooth University , all you want to know about courses and programmes , clubs and societies , sport scholarships and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Strengths : Some 13,500 students attend the university , which comprises a blend of 18th century buildings set against modern facilities .
The Maynooth education flexible curriculum allows most students four weeks to decide on their subjects at the beginning of first year .
The arts degree ( MH101 ) is the most popular degree in the Central Applications Office ( CAO ) with the highest number of first preference applications .
A €57 million academic building is due for completion in 2021 while construction on a student centre is due to begin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1,200 rooms on campus .
What ’ s new : A new full-time degree in early-childhood teaching and learning will be offered from September 2021 .
This is in addition to the existing part-time programme .
There is a new student platform which provides opportunities for prospective students to chat with current students called MU Chat with our Students .
This complements the university ’ s web-chat portal which allows members of the public to ask any admissions-related questions as well as other student support queries .
Don ’ t miss : The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 100 course and student support presentations and ask questions to more than 100 lecturers and other staff from across the university on academic and student life .
What will open days look like : TU Dublin has launched a CAO hub with information available about TU Dublin campuses , courses and life at the university .
Students will be able to listen to programme-related talks , hear about the services and supports available at TU Dublin and get career advice from experts in a range of fields from business , engineering , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visit whenever suits them .
When attending the open-day events , TU Dublin advises prospective applicants to ask lots of questions .
This year students can submit their questions via an online chat function and they will receive an answer from student and staff representatives .
According to TU Dublin , students who thoroughly research their options and ask lots of questions are the happiest with their choice and most likely to succeed in the long term .
Strengths : TU Dublin has more than 29,500 registered students based across three main campuses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Courses range from apprenticeship to PhD in a variety of disciplines , including the creative arts , engineering , sciences , business , health , technology , built environment and computing .
About 40 per cent of teaching in TU Dublin takes place in practice-based settings , whether that ’ s in studios , kitchens , workshops or laboratories , so students have the opportunity to put theory into action and to work in small class groups on projects , often with industry or community partners .
Accommodation : TU Dublin does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a range of housing providers so students can choose a style of living or location that suits them best .
What ’ s new : In September 2021 , TU Dublin is introducing a new honours bachelor of science in sustainable timber technology ( TU838 ) equipping students for positions in the forest product sector , which Enterprise Ireland predicts will grow from 12,000 to 20,000 people in the next 10 years .
What will open days look like : Students will be able to familiarise themselves with the campus by taking virtual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Open days will feature panel discussions on what life will look like for students during the pandemic and prospective students will also be able to participate in interactive sessions .
Detailed information will be available on courses ranging from content to choices within degrees .
DCU students will be on-hand to give their perspective and advice about college life .
Open days will also feature information sessions on scholarships ( academic and sports ) and widening entry pathways ( Hear , Dare , QQI ) .
Parents and guardians are being catered for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their son or daughter ’ s path to third-level education .
Prospective students will also hear how they can get involved with DCU ’ s clubs and societies as well as how best to transition into university life .
Strengths : DCU is ranked 19th in the world and first in Ireland for its graduate employment rate by the 2020 QS Graduate Employability rankings .
DCU ’ s mentorship programme gives students an opportunity to be mentored by an industry professional .
The university was named Student Sport Ireland ’ s sports college @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year in a row .
The school of biotechnology features a newly-equipped bioprocessing plant to fuel new biotech innovations in food , agrifood and drug production .
Accommodation : DCU has purpose-built residences over three campuses , providing more than 1,400 rooms for students .
For the current academic year , DCU is offering its students flexible on-campus accommodation arrangements .
Applications for entry in 2021 will open in February .
What ’ s new : Bachelor and master of engineering in sustainable systems and energy .
Two new general entry pathways to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students an opportunity to study different areas of either biology or chemistry to see which field inspires individual students most before progressing to second year .
Bachelor of science in psychology and mathematics is the first course in Ireland to integrate these subjects for students interested in a career that combines the interpretation of human behaviour with high-level numeracy , analytical and problem-solving skills .
Don ’ t miss : A first-year panel discussion on what it is like being a DCU student during a pandemic .
The # ForYou app developed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple ’ s app store .
What will open days look like : There will be a full schedule of programme and subject talks taking place in eight virtual venues .
Learn more about the courses you are interested in , talk to academics and ask questions at live Q & A sessions .
Visitors will be able to chat to student advisers and take a virtual tour of the main Belfield campus guided by student ambassadors .
There will also be opportunities to find out about the world of UCD – societies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at their virtual stands in the exhibition hall .
Strengths : Located just 4km south of Dublin city centre , UCD is set in a modern parkland campus with world-class teaching and student facilities , a state-of-the art student centre and over 8km of woodland walkways .
UCD has been ranked the number-one university in Ireland for graduate employability for three consecutive years by the QS World University Rankings .
UCD is also 75th in the world in this same ranking .
UCD has four subjects ranked within the top 50 QS World @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 32nd ) , sports-related subjects ( 32nd ) , library and information management ( 42nd ) and agriculture and forestry ( 47th ) .
UCD has 13 subjects in the top 100 , including those listed above and also : anatomy and physiology , archaeology , English language and literature , geography , history , law , nursing , politics and international studies , and social policy and administration .
Accommodation : UCD will have an additional 924 new residences for students ready for occupation from January 2021 .
First-year students are prioritised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of residences on campus to 4,088 .
What ’ s new : UCD has introduced two unique courses relating to sustainability : environmental science and engineering , and social sciences , policy and law .
Three new courses have also been introduced in humanities : European studies , global studies and Irish studies .
Don ’ t miss : UCD has almost 60 official sports clubs , excellent facilities and a huge range of fitness classes on offer .
There are more than 90 active student societies in UCD from jazz and comedy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What will open day look like ?
Students , parents , guardians and guidance counsellors are all welcome to attend Trinity ’ s virtual undergraduate open day .
They can expect presentations on a range of undergraduate courses , presentations on student experience , engagement with staff and students through real-time Q & A sessions , virtual tours of the campus , libraries and buildings and more .
Strengths : Trinity College Dublin is Ireland ’ s highest-ranked university in the 2021 Times Higher Education World University Rankings and the QS World University @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for excellence in teaching , research and innovation .
At Trinity College Dublin students will have the opportunity to develop expertise in their chosen area but are also encouraged to broaden their experience and perspective beyond their selected core subjects .
Trinity promotes the four Trinity graduate attributes in its students .
They are : to think independently ; to communicate effectively ; to develop continuously ; and to act responsibly .
Accommodation : Trinity provides accommodation to students with new entrants predominantly accommodated at Trinity Hall in Dartry near Rathmines , about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hall is easily accessible from the college by bus and the Luas .
There are more than 1,000 residential rooms at Trinity Hall and a significant number are reserved for new entrants to the university .
Find out more at : tcd.ie/accommodation tcd.ie/accommodation.What ’ s new : New programmes this year include environmental science and engineering ( TR064 ) and two new joint honours offerings – linguistics and social policy – as well as many new Trinity joint honours combinations .
TCD has also launched the E3 initiative , representing engineering , environment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ radically new type of collaboration between the schools of computer science and statistics , engineering and of natural science .
it sets out to put the finite nature of our natural resources firmly at the forefront of Irish third-level education .
Find out more at : tcd.ie/e3 Don ’ t miss : Video presentations of courses and student experience .
Students are advised to take the opportunity to speak to TCD academics and current students during the open day .
The college hosted an open day in October but prospective students can still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event is planned for April ( date TBC ) .
Online information : The university has collated information on its open days website that any prospective student would need to gain an understanding of university life .
Strengths : NUI Galway was founded in 1845 and prides itself on being a research-led university .
Located on the edge of Europe , the university is at the heart of a distinct and vibrant region , renowned for its unique culture , language , creative industries , medical technologies , marine ecology and economy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ settle into university life and to discover the experiences and services that are open to them , NUI Galway has designed a schedule of virtual events and activities for the first four weeks of college .
With a different theme each week , the schedules offer students their first taste of university life .
Themes include getting started , well-being , skills week and getting active .
The university prides itself on being a bilingual institution .
Tá tiomantas ar leith ag OÉ Gaillimh don Ghaeilge .
Tá ról tábhachtach ag an ollscoil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trí mheán na Gaeilge .
Breis eolais : nuigalway.ie/gaeilgebheo nuigalway.ie/gaeilgebheo/ Accommodation : NUI Galway has two on-campus student residences , Corrib Village and Goldcrest Village , offering more than 1,200 student places .
What ’ s new : NUI Galway is offering a new degree in agricultural science in 2021 .
Further developments include a new programme focusing on media and communications and its application globally and two new subjects in the flagship joint honours arts degree ( GY101 ) : global media and visual arts .
Don ’ t miss : NUI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the following dates UL held a series of virtual talks across all faculties where prospective students were provided with key information about each of the university ’ s courses .
The university has collated information on its open days website that any prospective student would need to gain an understanding of university life .
It features student blogs , information on sports , co-operative education , scholarships , alternative entry routes and more .
Strengths : The university ’ s First Seven Weeks programme is designed to support students during the early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and new starters .
Recognising that successful early adjustment is linked to subsequent success , the programme helps people find their feet and settle into life at UL .
Accommodation : There are 2,800 rooms across seven residential villages at University of Limerick .
* A list of open day dates is available on the student resource qualifax.ie and on careersportal.ie .

While university campuses have been closed down and the public cannot gather in any significant numbers for the foreseeable future, third-level institutions are using virtual platforms to give prospective students a taste of the lifestyle and study opportunities they offer.
The following is a taste of some open days to look out for in Ireland’s universities:
Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (RCSI)
Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 6 Trinity College Dublin
When? January 5th 2021
READ MORE
Register at: rcsi.com
What will open day look like? RCSI will deliver a virtual open day, where students will learn about studying medicine, pharmacy or physiotherapy as well as insights into a career in these professional areas. Students will learn everything they need to know about university life, how to choose the course that is right for them and how to make the most of their university journey. Teams from the Schools of Medicine, Pharmacy and Physiotherapy will deliver online sessions, which will include an academic overview of the programme, practical information about the hands-on side of the courses (labs, anatomy, etc) and information about career possibilities.
Current students will deliver a number of sessions throughout the day, which will include information about RCSI clubs and societies, as well as the other social aspects that students have the opportunity to experience. Students will also deliver a live Q&A session to give a first-hand account of what life is like at RCSI.
Strengths: The college is Ireland's only specialist health sciences university and the only Surgical Royal College in the world to offer undergraduate degrees and graduate-entry programmes in medicine, pharmacy and physiotherapy.
For the last five years, RCSI has maintained its position among the top 250 universities worldwide according to Times Higher Education (THE).
In terms of societal and global impact in health, the college is ranked number one in the world by THE, on the basis of the college open day's contribution to Sustainable Development Goal number three: Good health and wellbeing.
The college’s simulation centre – Europe’s largest – contains a virtual hospital, with wards, outpatients’ clinics, birthing suite and a full operating theatre and trauma facility.
Accommodation: RCSI's on-campus accommodation includes Mercer, Millin, New Mill and Scape accommodation. All rooms are en-suite and have a kitchen and living area, which students share with their housemates. Typically, a kitchen/living area is shared between six students, but this can vary, depending on the type of accommodation, for example studio apartments have their own kitchen/living area.
What's new: Late last year, the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (RCSI) became the ninth university in the State after being formally authorised to use the title of "university" for the first time in 235 years.
Don't miss: Prospective students should make sure they attend the virtual campus tour and Q&A sessions with current students.
University College Cork (UCC)
When?
Virtual undergraduate open days: December 4th and 5th, 10am-4pm.
Virtual postgraduate expo: February 24th, 2021.
Register at: ucc.ie
What will open days look like: With more than 22,000 students UCC has much to offer. The college is planning a series of virtual open days to give prospective students and their families an impression of what the university is about. They'll be able to watch presentations and information videos from their chosen subject area and student life sections. Downloadable programmes and leaflets will be available and prospective students will be able to take a virtual tour of campus and view some of the university's facilities.
A web-chat will be one of the key features where attendees can talk with academic and professional services staff about subjects and supports, as well as talking to current students about life at UCC. The college has more than 100 societies and 50 sports clubs and they will also be represented on the day.
Strengths: UCC is ranked in the top 50 of the Times Higher Education Europe Teaching Rankings 2019. The university prides itself on access and participation: In 2019-2020 more than 23 per cent of undergraduate admissions were through Access Admission routes. It is ranked as the ninth most sustainable university in the world and the most sustainable university in Ireland by the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings 2019. UCC is also ranked number 32 in the world as one of the leading universities internationally working towards creating a sustainable world by Times Higher Education. This is the only global performance table that assesses universities against the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
Accommodation: UCC has five purpose-built student apartment complexes run by UCC Campus Accommodation, all situated within walking distance of the main campus.
What's new: UCC's state-of-the-art student hub opened its doors on January 6th last. It is home to a range of student activities, learning and teaching spaces and facilities including student clubs and societies, academic services, career services, disability support services and more.
Don't miss: Upcoming talks and workshops. Keep an eye on ucc.ie for updates on talks for parents, prospective students and live Q&A sessions.
Maynooth University
When?
November 27th and 28th, 2020.
April 24th and June 26th, 2021.
Register at: maynoothuniversity.ie
What will open days look like: As with other colleges, Maynooth University's open days will be in a virtual format this year. They will offer prospective students a comprehensive overview of student life at Maynooth University, all you want to know about courses and programmes, clubs and societies, sport scholarships and other extracurricular aspects of college life.
Strengths: Some 13,500 students attend the university, which comprises a blend of 18th century buildings set against modern facilities. The Maynooth education flexible curriculum allows most students four weeks to decide on their subjects at the beginning of first year. The arts degree (MH101) is the most popular degree in the Central Applications Office (CAO) with the highest number of first preference applications. A €57 million academic building is due for completion in 2021 while construction on a student centre is due to begin shortly.
Accommodation : Maynooth has about 1,200 rooms on campus.
What's new: A new full-time degree in early-childhood teaching and learning will be offered from September 2021. This is in addition to the existing part-time programme. There is a new student platform which provides opportunities for prospective students to chat with current students called MU Chat with our Students. This complements the university's web-chat portal which allows members of the public to ask any admissions-related questions as well as other student support queries.
Don't miss: The opportunity on November 28th to view more than 100 course and student support presentations and ask questions to more than 100 lecturers and other staff from across the university on academic and student life.
Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin)
When?
December 4th and 5th.
Register at: tudublin.ie
What will open days look like: TU Dublin has launched a CAO hub with information available about TU Dublin campuses, courses and life at the university. Students will be able to listen to programme-related talks, hear about the services and supports available at TU Dublin and get career advice from experts in a range of fields from business, engineering, the arts and sciences. Students can visit whenever suits them.
When attending the open-day events, TU Dublin advises prospective applicants to ask lots of questions. This year students can submit their questions via an online chat function and they will receive an answer from student and staff representatives. According to TU Dublin, students who thoroughly research their options and ask lots of questions are the happiest with their choice and most likely to succeed in the long term.
Strengths: TU Dublin has more than 29,500 registered students based across three main campuses in Dublin city, Blanchardstown and Tallaght. Courses range from apprenticeship to PhD in a variety of disciplines, including the creative arts, engineering, sciences, business, health, technology, built environment and computing.
About 40 per cent of teaching in TU Dublin takes place in practice-based settings, whether that’s in studios, kitchens, workshops or laboratories, so students have the opportunity to put theory into action and to work in small class groups on projects, often with industry or community partners.
Accommodation: TU Dublin does not have on-campus accommodation but works with a range of housing providers so students can choose a style of living or location that suits them best.
What's new: In September 2021, TU Dublin is introducing a new honours bachelor of science in sustainable timber technology (TU838) equipping students for positions in the forest product sector, which Enterprise Ireland predicts will grow from 12,000 to 20,000 people in the next 10 years.
Don't Miss: Open days on Friday, December 4th and Saturday, December 5th.
Dublin City University (DCU)
When?
November 20th and 21st, 2020.
Spring open day: April 17th, 2021.
Transition-year students only on April 27th, 2021.
Register at: dcu.ie
What will open days look like: Students will be able to familiarise themselves with the campus by taking virtual tours of DCU's facilities. Open days will feature panel discussions on what life will look like for students during the pandemic and prospective students will also be able to participate in interactive sessions. Detailed information will be available on courses ranging from content to choices within degrees. DCU students will be on-hand to give their perspective and advice about college life. Open days will also feature information sessions on scholarships (academic and sports) and widening entry pathways (Hear, Dare, QQI). Parents and guardians are being catered for with guidance on how they should approach their son or daughter's path to third-level education. Prospective students will also hear how they can get involved with DCU's clubs and societies as well as how best to transition into university life.
Strengths: DCU is ranked 19th in the world and first in Ireland for its graduate employment rate by the 2020 QS Graduate Employability rankings. DCU's mentorship programme gives students an opportunity to be mentored by an industry professional. The university was named Student Sport Ireland's sports college of the year 2020 for the second year in a row. The school of biotechnology features a newly-equipped bioprocessing plant to fuel new biotech innovations in food, agrifood and drug production.
Accommodation: DCU has purpose-built residences over three campuses, providing more than 1,400 rooms for students. For the current academic year, DCU is offering its students flexible on-campus accommodation arrangements. Applications for entry in 2021 will open in February.
What's new: Bachelor and master of engineering in sustainable systems and energy. Two new general entry pathways to biological sciences and chemical sciences will give students an opportunity to study different areas of either biology or chemistry to see which field inspires individual students most before progressing to second year. Bachelor of science in psychology and mathematics is the first course in Ireland to integrate these subjects for students interested in a career that combines the interpretation of human behaviour with high-level numeracy, analytical and problem-solving skills.
Don't miss: A first-year panel discussion on what it is like being a DCU student during a pandemic. The #ForYou app developed by DCU available on Google Play Store and Apple's app store.
University College Dublin (UCD)
When?
Saturday, November 14th, 10am-4pm.
Register at: ucdopenday.ie
What will open days look like: There will be a full schedule of programme and subject talks taking place in eight virtual venues. Learn more about the courses you are interested in, talk to academics and ask questions at live Q&A sessions. Visitors will be able to chat to student advisers and take a virtual tour of the main Belfield campus guided by student ambassadors. There will also be opportunities to find out about the world of UCD – societies, sport, facilities and campus – at their virtual stands in the exhibition hall.
Strengths: Located just 4km south of Dublin city centre, UCD is set in a modern parkland campus with world-class teaching and student facilities, a state-of-the art student centre and over 8km of woodland walkways. UCD has been ranked the number-one university in Ireland for graduate employability for three consecutive years by the QS World University Rankings. UCD is also 75th in the world in this same ranking. UCD has four subjects ranked within the top 50 QS World University Subject Rankings: veterinary science (32nd), sports-related subjects (32nd), library and information management (42nd) and agriculture and forestry (47th). UCD has 13 subjects in the top 100, including those listed above and also: anatomy and physiology, archaeology, English language and literature, geography, history, law, nursing, politics and international studies, and social policy and administration.
Accommodation: UCD will have an additional 924 new residences for students ready for occupation from January 2021. First-year students are prioritised. This will bring the total number of residences on campus to 4,088.
What's new: UCD has introduced two unique courses relating to sustainability: environmental science and engineering, and social sciences, policy and law. Three new courses have also been introduced in humanities: European studies, global studies and Irish studies.
Don't miss: UCD has almost 60 official sports clubs, excellent facilities and a huge range of fitness classes on offer. There are more than 90 active student societies in UCD from jazz and comedy to science, travel and religion.
Trinity College Dublin (TCD)
When?
Saturday, November 7th, 10am-6pm
Register at: tcd.ie
What will open day look like?
Students, parents, guardians and guidance counsellors are all welcome to attend Trinity’s virtual undergraduate open day. They can expect presentations on a range of undergraduate courses, presentations on student experience, engagement with staff and students through real-time Q&A sessions, virtual tours of the campus, libraries and buildings and more.
Strengths: Trinity College Dublin is Ireland's highest-ranked university in the 2021 Times Higher Education World University Rankings and the QS World University Rankings. It has a global reputation for excellence in teaching, research and innovation. At Trinity College Dublin students will have the opportunity to develop expertise in their chosen area but are also encouraged to broaden their experience and perspective beyond their selected core subjects. Trinity promotes the four Trinity graduate attributes in its students. They are: to think independently; to communicate effectively; to develop continuously; and to act responsibly.
Accommodation: Trinity provides accommodation to students with new entrants predominantly accommodated at Trinity Hall in Dartry near Rathmines, about 4km from the city-centre campus. Trinity Hall is easily accessible from the college by bus and the Luas. There are more than 1,000 residential rooms at Trinity Hall and a significant number are reserved for new entrants to the university. Find out more at: tcd.ie/accommodation tcd.ie/accommodation.What's new: New programmes this year include environmental science and engineering (TR064) and two new joint honours offerings – linguistics and social policy – as well as many new Trinity joint honours combinations. TCD has also launched the E3 initiative, representing engineering, environment and emerging technologies. It is a radically new type of collaboration between the schools of computer science and statistics, engineering and of natural science. it sets out to put the finite nature of our natural resources firmly at the forefront of Irish third-level education. Find out more at: tcd.ie/e3
Don't miss: Video presentations of courses and student experience. Students are advised to take the opportunity to speak to TCD academics and current students during the open day.
National University of Ireland, Galway (NUI Galway/OÉ Gaillimh)
When?
The college hosted an open day in October but prospective students can still access material online at nuigalway.ie/cao. Another event is planned for April (date TBC).
See: nuigalway.ie/cao
Online information: The university has collated information on its open days website that any prospective student would need to gain an understanding of university life.
Strengths: NUI Galway was founded in 1845 and prides itself on being a research-led university. Located on the edge of Europe, the university is at the heart of a distinct and vibrant region, renowned for its unique culture, language, creative industries, medical technologies, marine ecology and economy, and more.
To help new students settle into university life and to discover the experiences and services that are open to them, NUI Galway has designed a schedule of virtual events and activities for the first four weeks of college. With a different theme each week, the schedules offer students their first taste of university life. Themes include getting started, well-being, skills week and getting active.
The university prides itself on being a bilingual institution. Tá tiomantas ar leith ag OÉ Gaillimh don Ghaeilge. Tá ról tábhachtach ag an ollscoil le hoideachas triú-leibhéal a chur ar fáil trí mheán na Gaeilge. Breis eolais: nuigalway.ie/gaeilgebheo nuigalway.ie/gaeilgebheo/Accommodation: NUI Galway has two on-campus student residences, Corrib Village and Goldcrest Village, offering more than 1,200 student places.
What's new: NUI Galway is offering a new degree in agricultural science in 2021. Further developments include a new programme focusing on media and communications and its application globally and two new subjects in the flagship joint honours arts degree (GY101): global media and visual arts.
Don't miss: NUI Galway is organising CAO Virtual Information Evenings on the following dates
* 12 Nov: Business and Law, including Shannon College
* 19 Nov: Science and Engineering
* 26 Nov: Arts at NUI Galway, including St Angela’s Sligo
* 3 Dec: Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, including St Angela’s
University of Limerick (UL)
When?
16th January.
Register at: ul.ie
UL held a series of virtual talks across all faculties where prospective students were provided with key information about each of the university’s courses. The university has collated information on its open days website that any prospective student would need to gain an understanding of university life. It features student blogs, information on sports, co-operative education, scholarships, alternative entry routes and more.
Strengths: The university's First Seven Weeks programme is designed to support students during the early weeks of term, particularly first years and new starters. Recognising that successful early adjustment is linked to subsequent success, the programme helps people find their feet and settle into life at UL.
Accommodation: There are 2,800 rooms across seven residential villages at University of Limerick.
* A list of open day dates is available on the student resource qualifax.ie and on careersportal.ie.


theirishtimes--2020-11-02--Garda murderer to have no automatic entitlement to release

Aaron Brady will have no automatic entitlement to be released from his sentence for the murder of Det Garda Adrian Donohoe and could spend the rest of his life in prison , legal experts have said .
Brady ( 29 ) of New Road , Crossmaglen , Co Armagh , was convicted in August of the murder of Det Garda Donohoe during an armed raid on Lordship credit union in Co Louth on January 25th , 2013 .
Brady is the first person to be convicted and sentenced under sections two , three and four of the Criminal Justice Act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a member of An Garda Síochána acting in the course of his duty .
Precedents set by sentences imposed on previous garda murderers , who were entitled to release after 30 years , do not apply .
Brady , who was sentenced to life with a minimum of 40 years , will never have automatic entitlement to release and if he is released could be sent back to prison at any time .
Barrister and lecturer at National University of Ireland ( NUI ) , Galway , Thomas O ’ Malley points @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capital ” murder , replacing it with various offences including the “ murder of a member of the Garda Síochána acting in the course of his duty ” .
The term “ capital murder ” no longer exists in the legislation although it was frequently used by lawyers involved in Brady ’ s trial and by the media .
Prior to the 1990 Act , the penalty for capital murder under the 1964 Criminal Justice Act was death .
Co Monaghan man Noel Callan was sentenced to death under that Act for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 49 ) following an armed robbery at the Ardee labour exchange in Co Louth on June 27th , 1985 .
Callan was due for execution when then President Patrick Hillery commuted the sentence under article 13.6 of the Constitution to “ penal servitude ” for 40 years .
In 2006 , Callan sought remission under article 40 of the Constitution .
The Supreme Court found he was entitled to the standard remission of a quarter of his sentence and he was released in December 2015 having served 30 years .
Brady , however @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but to life imprisonment in the same way anyone convicted of murder in Ireland would be .
Sections three and four of the CJA 1990 add that where a person is convicted of murdering a garda acting in the course of their duty , the sentencing judge shall “ specify as the minimum period of imprisonment to be served by that person a period of not less than 40 years ” .
The Act goes on to say that the person is entitled to remission in the ordinary way on that minimum , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 30 years .
But the life sentence will still apply .
Dr Diarmuid Griffin of NUI Galway noted that the Minister for Justice has the final say on the release of life prisoners but the Parole Act 2019 , which has yet to be commenced , will transfer that power solely to the Parole Board .
“ There are criteria that apply to parole decision-making that will determine the outcome in an individual case and these include an assessment of the risk posed by the person to the community.
” Dr Griffin said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ released immediately on becoming eligible for parole .
The time served by prisoners sentenced to life is growing : Between 1975 and 1984 the average term served was 7.5 years .
It was 19 years between 2008 and 2017 and in 2019 5 per cent of those in custody serving life sentences for homicide had spent 30 years or more inside .
According to Dr Griffin , when a person applies for release the Parole Board may take into account reports from the Prison Service , probation service , psychologists , psychiatrists , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The board would also consider whether the person would comply with the conditions of their release and whether they posed an undue risk to society .
Det Garda Donohoe ’ s family would also be invited to offer their views .
In the interim , the chances of Brady receiving temporary release in the manner sometimes given to life prisoners is remote .
The CJA 1990 is clear that temporary release is allowed only for “ grave reasons of a humanitarian nature ” .
Lawyers say the phrase is vague enough to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but the power to release would be used only in extreme circumstances .
Brady is gearing up for an appeal of his conviction .
If unsuccessful , he will remain in prison until he is at least 57 years old .

Aaron Brady is preparing to appeal against his conviction for the murder of Det Garda Adrian Donohoe. Photograph: Collins
Aaron Brady will have no automatic entitlement to be released from his sentence for the murder of Det Garda Adrian Donohoe and could spend the rest of his life in prison, legal experts have said.
Brady (29) of New Road, Crossmaglen, Co Armagh, was convicted in August of the murder of Det Garda Donohoe during an armed raid on Lordship credit union in Co Louth on January 25th, 2013.
Brady is the first person to be convicted and sentenced under sections two, three and four of the Criminal Justice Act (CJA) 1990 for the murder of a member of An Garda Síochána acting in the course of his duty. Precedents set by sentences imposed on previous garda murderers, who were entitled to release after 30 years, do not apply. Brady, who was sentenced to life with a minimum of 40 years, will never have automatic entitlement to release and if he is released could be sent back to prison at any time.
Capital murder
Barrister and lecturer at National University of Ireland (NUI), Galway, Thomas O’Malley points out that the 1990 Act abolished “capital” murder, replacing it with various offences including the “murder of a member of the Garda Síochána acting in the course of his duty”.
READ MORE
The term “capital murder” no longer exists in the legislation although it was frequently used by lawyers involved in Brady’s trial and by the media.
Prior to the 1990 Act, the penalty for capital murder under the 1964 Criminal Justice Act was death.
Co Monaghan man Noel Callan was sentenced to death under that Act for the capital murder of Sgt Patrick Morrissey (49) following an armed robbery at the Ardee labour exchange in Co Louth on June 27th, 1985. Callan was due for execution when then President Patrick Hillery commuted the sentence under article 13.6 of the Constitution to "penal servitude" for 40 years.
In 2006, Callan sought remission under article 40 of the Constitution. The Supreme Court found he was entitled to the standard remission of a quarter of his sentence and he was released in December 2015 having served 30 years.
Brady, however, was not sentenced to death, but to life imprisonment in the same way anyone convicted of murder in Ireland would be. Sections three and four of the CJA 1990 add that where a person is convicted of murdering a garda acting in the course of their duty, the sentencing judge shall “specify as the minimum period of imprisonment to be served by that person a period of not less than 40 years”.
The Act goes on to say that the person is entitled to remission in the ordinary way on that minimum, meaning he could apply for release after 30 years. But the life sentence will still apply.
Dr Diarmuid Griffin of NUI Galway noted that the Minister for Justice has the final say on the release of life prisoners but the Parole Act 2019, which has yet to be commenced, will transfer that power solely to the Parole Board.
“There are criteria that apply to parole decision-making that will determine the outcome in an individual case and these include an assessment of the risk posed by the person to the community.”
Longer terms
Dr Griffin said a person cannot expect to be released immediately on becoming eligible for parole. The time served by prisoners sentenced to life is growing: Between 1975 and 1984 the average term served was 7.5 years. It was 19 years between 2008 and 2017 and in 2019 5 per cent of those in custody serving life sentences for homicide had spent 30 years or more inside.
According to Dr Griffin, when a person applies for release the Parole Board may take into account reports from the Prison Service, probation service, psychologists, psychiatrists, the prison governor, gardaí and others. The board would also consider whether the person would comply with the conditions of their release and whether they posed an undue risk to society.
Det Garda Donohoe’s family would also be invited to offer their views.
In the interim, the chances of Brady receiving temporary release in the manner sometimes given to life prisoners is remote. The CJA 1990 is clear that temporary release is allowed only for “grave reasons of a humanitarian nature”.
Lawyers say the phrase is vague enough to allow the authorities to use their discretion, but the power to release would be used only in extreme circumstances.
Brady is gearing up for an appeal of his conviction. If unsuccessful, he will remain in prison until he is at least 57 years old.


theirishtimes--2020-11-02--Tips for open days and Higher Options – preparation is key

There is so much information available about colleges and the courses they teach that telling the difference between courses , which on the face of it look the same , can sometimes be a challenge .
It is always worthwhile for prospective students to take some time to do preparatory work in advance of attending open days or The Irish Times Higher Options expo .
Firstly , it is worth considering what type of college is best suited to you .
Chat with your career-guidance counsellor or send them an email .
Talk to parents and other third-level students if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think .
Secondly , write down a list of questions .
As a rule of thumb , it is a good idea to ask the same questions during each open day or at each “ stall ” to get as measured an understanding of each institution as is possible .
You should try to tailor your questions to suit your interests and needs .
Ask about the course content .
What are the academic requirements ?
Will the course make graduates more employable ?
What areas are covered in the course and how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be delivered and does the course feature one-on-one or group supervision ?
Thirdly , prospective students should not forget the practical questions .
While answers to all of those questions may not be forthcoming yet , thanks to Covid-19 , they are still worth asking .
Ask about on-campus facilities .
Does it have high-quality sports facilities ?
What are the accommodation options ?
How much does university accommodation cost ?
Are rooms located close to campus ?
If students return to campus this academic year , will the college provide flexible renting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a couple of days in the event of their lectures being grouped together ?
How much should students budget for college accommodation ?
Fourthly , students with particular needs should seek relevant information .
For example , are you in any way adversely affected by distance learning ?
Do you have special audiovisual requirements ?
Do you have the right equipment to work remotely and do you have access to a broadband connection ?
Will the college in question offer help in the event that you do not have access to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event of a return to campus , is the campus accessible ?
Is it wheelchair-friendly ?
Does it have transition and support programmes in place ?

Consider what type of college is best suited to you and tailor your questions to suit your interests. Photograph: iStock
There is so much information available about colleges and the courses they teach that telling the difference between courses, which on the face of it look the same, can sometimes be a challenge.
It is always worthwhile for prospective students to take some time to do preparatory work in advance of attending open days or The Irish Times Higher Options expo.
Firstly, it is worth considering what type of college is best suited to you. Chat with your career-guidance counsellor or send them an email. Talk to parents and other third-level students if you can. Ask them what they think.
Secondly, write down a list of questions. As a rule of thumb, it is a good idea to ask the same questions during each open day or at each “stall” to get as measured an understanding of each institution as is possible. You should try to tailor your questions to suit your interests and needs.
READ MORE
Ask about the course content. What are the academic requirements? Will the course make graduates more employable? What areas are covered in the course and how is it assessed? How will lectures be delivered and does the course feature one-on-one or group supervision?
Think practically
Thirdly, prospective students should not forget the practical questions. While answers to all of those questions may not be forthcoming yet, thanks to Covid-19, they are still worth asking.
Ask about on-campus facilities. Does it have high-quality sports facilities? What are the accommodation options? How much does university accommodation cost? Are rooms located close to campus?
If students return to campus this academic year, will the college provide flexible renting options for those who wish to stay for a couple of days in the event of their lectures being grouped together? How much should students budget for college accommodation?
Fourthly, students with particular needs should seek relevant information. For example, are you in any way adversely affected by distance learning? Do you have special audiovisual requirements? Do you have the right equipment to work remotely and do you have access to a broadband connection? Will the college in question offer help in the event that you do not have access to the correct equipment?
Again, in the event of a return to campus, is the campus accessible? Is it wheelchair-friendly? Does it have transition and support programmes in place?


theirishtimes--2020-11-02--‘We will have Jameson if he wins’: Joe Biden voter in Tuam nursing home

Irish whiskey will be quaffed at Greenpark Nursing Home in Tuam no matter the outcome of the US presidential election .
A resident of the Galway nursing home , US citizen Bridie Higgins , plans to nap on Tuesday afternoon so she has enough energy to stay awake overnight as the results trickle in early on Wednesday morning .
The 85-year-old has followed the election campaign carefully and sent her absentee vote by post last week .
“ I wouldn ’ t miss the election for anything .
I will be staying up late ; that is for sure , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vote will move the dial in Democratic candidate Joe Biden ’ s favour .
“ I have requested a ‘ B & B ’ – Bridie and Biden – party for if he wins .
We will have Jamesons if he wins , and if he doesn ’ t win then we will drown our sorrows.
” Higgins grew up in Moylough , Co Galway , but spent most of her life in New York after a holiday in her teens led to her taking up residence in the Bronx and becoming a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manhattan College instilled in her a keen interest in politics that has endured to this day .
“ I am very interested in everything that goes on in America , ” she says .
She reads newspapers sent over by her friends in the US .
“ I read about Biden ’ s life and what he had done in America and how compassionate he is about all the problems people face in life .
“ When I read about Donald Trump and what he was doing and saying , he never impressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not going to get my vote.
” As a teacher at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital , Higgins ensured children being treated for cancer did not fall behind on their studies .
To her , Biden has shown he is an advocate of education : “ He used to talk about teachers and how important they were in the lives of families .
Teachers usually don ’ t get the same recognition as doctors but they have an immense influence on children ’ s lives .
All of that made me feel that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I feel we need somebody who would be more compassionate [ than Trump ] and a little bit more caring about the ordinary citizens of America.
” Having been unable to travel to the US due to the coronavirus , Higgins is hopeful she will get to visit the country at some point in 2021 for an extended holiday .
For now she is appealing to the wider Irish public to “ keep lighting candles and praying ” that she will be able to toast a Biden presidency come Wednesday morning .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Biden ’ s great-great-great-grandfather Edward Blewitt , American citizen Derek Leonard has also cast a vote for the Democratic candidate .
While Leonard is hopeful Biden will win , he has many friends in Boston who are voting for Trump .
They see more than just his “ worst parts ” that dominate international broadcasts , he says .
Leonard , who grew up on the same street as Biden ’ s ancestors in Ballina , Co Mayo , emigrated to the US in 1987 .
He has not only observed Biden ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ politician into Harrison ’ s , his pub on Ballina ’ s Main Street , in 2016 .
Leonard was part of the group of community volunteers behind the mural of Biden on Garden Street .
“ It was a time where we were out of work and we wanted to keep ourselves active , ” he says .
“ The mural kept us busy and we were trying to give [ Biden ] a boost for his election campaign.
” The mural has garnered international attention , bringing to the town CNN @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Press , as well as being covered by media outlets in India and the Middle East .
“ It has let people know that Biden has a connection to Mayo before the election results rather than after … We were trying to put ourselves on the map and do as much for the local area and the local economy as we can .
Hopefully , when he is president he will be back .
”

Irish whiskey will be quaffed at Greenpark Nursing Home in Tuam no matter the outcome of the US presidential election.
A resident of the Galway nursing home, US citizen Bridie Higgins, plans to nap on Tuesday afternoon so she has enough energy to stay awake overnight as the results trickle in early on Wednesday morning.
The 85-year-old has followed the election campaign carefully and sent her absentee vote by post last week.
“I wouldn’t miss the election for anything. I will be staying up late; that is for sure,” she says. She hopes her vote will move the dial in Democratic candidate Joe Biden’s favour.
READ MORE
“I have requested a ‘B&B’– Bridie and Biden – party for if he wins. We will have Jamesons if he wins, and if he doesn’t win then we will drown our sorrows.”
Higgins grew up in Moylough, Co Galway, but spent most of her life in New York after a holiday in her teens led to her taking up residence in the Bronx and becoming a US citizen.
Studying American history at Manhattan College instilled in her a keen interest in politics that has endured to this day.
“I am very interested in everything that goes on in America,” she says. She reads newspapers sent over by her friends in the US.
“I read about Biden’s life and what he had done in America and how compassionate he is about all the problems people face in life.
"When I read about Donald Trump and what he was doing and saying, he never impressed me much. I thought: He is not going to get my vote."
Education paramount
As a teacher at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital, Higgins ensured children being treated for cancer did not fall behind on their studies.
To her, Biden has shown he is an advocate of education: “He used to talk about teachers and how important they were in the lives of families. Teachers usually don’t get the same recognition as doctors but they have an immense influence on children’s lives. All of that made me feel that he would be right for president.”
“I feel we need somebody who would be more compassionate [than Trump] and a little bit more caring about the ordinary citizens of America.”
Having been unable to travel to the US due to the coronavirus, Higgins is hopeful she will get to visit the country at some point in 2021 for an extended holiday.
For now she is appealing to the wider Irish public to “keep lighting candles and praying” that she will be able to toast a Biden presidency come Wednesday morning.
Over in Ballina, the hometown of Biden's great-great-great-grandfather Edward Blewitt, American citizen Derek Leonard has also cast a vote for the Democratic candidate .
While Leonard is hopeful Biden will win, he has many friends in Boston who are voting for Trump. They see more than just his “worst parts” that dominate international broadcasts, he says.
Biden mural
Leonard, who grew up on the same street as Biden’s ancestors in Ballina, Co Mayo, emigrated to the US in 1987. He has not only observed Biden’s progress from afar but welcomed the politician into Harrison’s, his pub on Ballina’s Main Street, in 2016.
Leonard was part of the group of community volunteers behind the mural of Biden on Garden Street. “It was a time where we were out of work and we wanted to keep ourselves active,” he says. “The mural kept us busy and we were trying to give [Biden] a boost for his election campaign.”
The mural has garnered international attention, bringing to the town CNN, the BBC and the Associated Foreign Press, as well as being covered by media outlets in India and the Middle East.
“It has let people know that Biden has a connection to Mayo before the election results rather than after … We were trying to put ourselves on the map and do as much for the local area and the local economy as we can. Hopefully, when he is president he will be back.”


theirishtimes--2020-11-02--Surge in number of health staff off work for Covid-19 issues

The number of health staff off work for Covid-related issues surged to almost five times its summer level in recent weeks , internal Health Service Executive ( HSE ) documents show .
The number of healthcare workers absent due to Covid-19 stood at 1,697 on October 21st , the same day Level 5 restrictions were introduced , up from a mid-summer low point of 352 on July 8th .
While the figures of healthcare workers off sick with the disease or self-isolating due to being declared a close contact did not approach the levels seen in the spring , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Level 5 measures being implemented .
On August 26th , as the second wave was beginning to gain momentum , 496 workers were off work .
Two weeks later that had almost doubled to 957 .
During September and early October the rate remained relatively stable , with 1,155 and 1,115 workers absent on September 23rd and October 7th .
However , a second increase of 582 workers absent was then recorded on October 21st , bringing the total Covid-19-related absenteeism across the HSE to 1,697 .
The data , which is contained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , may also be an underestimate , the report notes .
This is due to absences being entered in arrears on the HSE ’ s human resources system , the report notes , meaning “ it is likely that this dataset is underestimated ” .
Furthermore , the report notes that data had not been received for the reporting period from the Dublin Dental Hospital or Beaumont Hospital .
The HSE said it is expanding its workforce and has put in place specific initiatives relating to occupational health and education in order to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokeswoman said supports include priority testing , PPE and infection control training , free flu vaccinations , an internal Covid helpline , as well as flexible work practices .
Phil Ní Sheaghdha , general secretary of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation , said there was a “ vicious cycle ” at work in the health system , where “ understaffing leads to more infections , which in turn adds more staffing pressure ” .

The number of healthcare workers absent due to Covid-19 stood at 1,697 on October 21st, the same day Level 5 restrictions were introduced. Photograph: Getty Images
The number of health staff off work for Covid-related issues surged to almost five times its summer level in recent weeks, internal Health Service Executive (HSE) documents show.
The number of healthcare workers absent due to Covid-19 stood at 1,697 on October 21st, the same day Level 5 restrictions were introduced, up from a mid-summer low point of 352 on July 8th.
While the figures of healthcare workers off sick with the disease or self-isolating due to being declared a close contact did not approach the levels seen in the spring, they grew rapidly in the weeks prior to Level 5 measures being implemented.
On August 26th, as the second wave was beginning to gain momentum, 496 workers were off work. Two weeks later that had almost doubled to 957.
READ MORE
During September and early October the rate remained relatively stable, with 1,155 and 1,115 workers absent on September 23rd and October 7th.
However, a second increase of 582 workers absent was then recorded on October 21st, bringing the total Covid-19-related absenteeism across the HSE to 1,697.
The data, which is contained in an internal HSE Covid-19 situational report, may also be an underestimate, the report notes. This is due to absences being entered in arrears on the HSE’s human resources system, the report notes, meaning “it is likely that this dataset is underestimated”.
Furthermore, the report notes that data had not been received for the reporting period from the Dublin Dental Hospital or Beaumont Hospital.
The HSE said it is expanding its workforce and has put in place specific initiatives relating to occupational health and education in order to mitigate the impact of Covid-19.
A spokeswoman said supports include priority testing, PPE and infection control training, free flu vaccinations, an internal Covid helpline, as well as flexible work practices.
Phil Ní Sheaghdha, general secretary of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, said there was a "vicious cycle" at work in the health system, where "understaffing leads to more infections, which in turn adds more staffing pressure".


theirishtimes--2020-11-02--Irish citizen unable to renew passport left ‘trapped’ in Libya

An Irish citizen in failing health says he is stranded in Libya as he has been unable to renew his Irish passport .
Tahir El Shirif ( 68 ) , a Libyan national , fears he may never see his Irish children again unless he can at least get an emergency travel document to return from Tripoli .
Mr El Shirif came to Ireland in the 1970s as a student to study engineering at the then Kevin Street College of Technology .
He met and married an Irishwoman and ran a service-repair business in Tallaght .
He was naturalised as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ separation from his wife , he returned to Libya during the Arab Spring protests in 2011 .
He has adult children living in Dublin .
Speaking by phone from Tripoli , he said he decided in 2018 he to return to Ireland due to the deteriorating security situation and his worsening health .
A long civil war has led to the near breakdown of society .
Libya is on the “ do not travel ” list of countries kept by the Department of Foreign Affairs .
Mr El Shirif has suffered serious complications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eyesight .
“ I also have an ulcer that has gone very bad , very bad with the stress .
I nearly to didn ’ t make it a few months ago , to be honest.
” His Irish passport , a photograph of which has been seen by The Irish Times , was issued by the Dublin Passport Office on February 14th , 2002 , and expired 10 years later .
According the rules on the “ Passport Online ” website , renewal of a passport issued more than 15 years ago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Only citizens resident in Ireland , Northern Ireland , Britain , the European Union , the European Economic Area or Switzerland can apply for the first time online .
“ If you are a citizen resident outside of these countries , please submit a paper application through your nearest Irish embassy or consulate , ” it says .
There is no Irish embassy or consulate in Tripoli .
Given the ongoing war , Mr El Shirif says he could not entrust his documents to a courier or postal service .
So , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ embassies in Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia , in October 2019 , and Cairo , Egypt , in March 2019 as well as the Irish honorary consul in Istanbul , Turkey , in November 2018 .
His passport shows country entry- and exit-stamps for these countries .
“ I went up and down to Cairo on the train .
I really thought the Irish embassy there would help be but they did not give any result .
The only reason they gave was that my passport was too old .
I really feel they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not worth a penny to them .
“ I have even gone to the Italian embassy , the only European embassy in Tripoli , but they said they could not help me.
” He is “ desperate ” now to return to Ireland but can not enter the country without his Irish passport .
He is not eligible for a visa on his Libyan passport .
“ I am trapped .
Here , is not safe for an old man in bad health .
I want to see my children again , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ die.
” His daughter , who did not want to be named , said she had made several efforts to help him .
“ I obviously can ’ t go to him .
It ’ s too dangerous .
I just can ’ t understand what the problem is .
I don ’ t want my dad stranded there , not well.
” A spokeswoman for the Department of Foreign Affairs said it could not comment on an individual case .

Tahir El Shirif (68), a Libyan national, fears he may never see his Irish children again unless he can at least get an emergency travel document to return from Tripoli
An Irish citizen in failing health says he is stranded in Libya as he has been unable to renew his Irish passport.
Tahir El Shirif (68), a Libyan national, fears he may never see his Irish children again unless he can at least get an emergency travel document to return from Tripoli.
Mr El Shirif came to Ireland in the 1970s as a student to study engineering at the then Kevin Street College of Technology. He met and married an Irishwoman and ran a service-repair business in Tallaght. He was naturalised as an Irish citizen in 1988.
Following separation from his wife, he returned to Libya during the Arab Spring protests in 2011. He has adult children living in Dublin.
READ MORE
Breakdown of society
Speaking by phone from Tripoli, he said he decided in 2018 he to return to Ireland due to the deteriorating security situation and his worsening health. A long civil war has led to the near breakdown of society. Libya is on the “do not travel” list of countries kept by the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Mr El Shirif has suffered serious complications from diabetes, including failing kidneys and eyesight.
“I also have an ulcer that has gone very bad, very bad with the stress. I nearly to didn’t make it a few months ago, to be honest.”
His Irish passport, a photograph of which has been seen by The Irish Times, was issued by the Dublin Passport Office on February 14th, 2002, and expired 10 years later.
According the rules on the "Passport Online" website, renewal of a passport issued more than 15 years ago is considered a "first-time" application. Only citizens resident in Ireland, Northern Ireland, Britain, the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland can apply for the first time online.
“If you are a citizen resident outside of these countries, please submit a paper application through your nearest Irish embassy or consulate,” it says.
There is no Irish embassy or consulate in Tripoli. Given the ongoing war, Mr El Shirif says he could not entrust his documents to a courier or postal service. So, he travelled in person to the Irish embassies in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in October 2019, and Cairo, Egypt, in March 2019 as well as the Irish honorary consul in Istanbul, Turkey, in November 2018.
Neglected
His passport shows country entry- and exit-stamps for these countries.
“I went up and down to Cairo on the train. I really thought the Irish embassy there would help be but they did not give any result. The only reason they gave was that my passport was too old. I really feel they neglected me, as if I was not worth a penny to them.
“I have even gone to the Italian embassy, the only European embassy in Tripoli, but they said they could not help me.”
He is “desperate” now to return to Ireland but cannot enter the country without his Irish passport. He is not eligible for a visa on his Libyan passport.
“I am trapped. Here, is not safe for an old man in bad health. I want to see my children again, to tell them I love them before I die.”
His daughter, who did not want to be named, said she had made several efforts to help him. “I obviously can’t go to him. It’s too dangerous. I just can’t understand what the problem is. I don’t want my dad stranded there, not well.”
A spokeswoman for the Department of Foreign Affairs said it could not comment on an individual case.


theirishtimes--2020-11-02--Apprentice barristers being ‘refused entry’ to court due to pandemic

Apprentice barristers are missing out on vital work experience as many can not attend court due to Covid-19 restrictions .
Under Courts Service regulations , the maximum number of people allowed in court at any one time is strictly limited and depends on the size of the courtroom .
In most courtrooms the limit is eight to 12 people , including the judge , barristers , solicitors , gardaí , witnesses and reporters .
This means there is frequently not enough room for apprentice barristers , known as devils , to attend court with their “ masters ” – qualified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – and observe proceedings .
Devilling is considered a key part of barrister training and can last for up to two years .
It is usually unpaid and takes place after they have completed exams in the Kings Inn .
In May the Bar Council circulated guidelines stating there should be no issue with devils attending court .
“ Unfortunately in practice that is now effectively impossible , ” one devil said .
Devils are now “ refused entry and can not attend .
On a number of occasions I have been instructed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to leave by tipstaff , ” he said .
“ Devils are largely not remunerated , which is falsely rationalised by us getting experience in return – now we don ’ t even get that much .
“ Many people have had little work for the past three months and this now compounds it going forward .
It is also completely unclear how this is compatible with justice being done in public.
” A spokesman for the Bar Council , which oversees the barrister profession , said it recognised that devils ’ attendance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” by the pandemic .
It said it had made representations to the Courts Service to explore solutions to the issue in line with the “ continued safe operation of the courts ” .
“ The Bar continues to propose and advance workable solutions to these issues , and undoubtedly the courts and judiciary appreciate the importance of direct experience and involvement in court proceedings in the professional formation of young barristers.
” The Courts Service is also beginning to hold hearings in larger , non-court buildings where more people can attend .

The Bar Council recognised that devils’ attendance at court had been ‘significantly impacted’ by the pandemic. Photograph: Colin Keegan/Collins
Apprentice barristers are missing out on vital work experience as many cannot attend court due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Under Courts Service regulations, the maximum number of people allowed in court at any one time is strictly limited and depends on the size of the courtroom. In most courtrooms the limit is eight to 12 people, including the judge, barristers, solicitors, gardaí, witnesses and reporters.
This means there is frequently not enough room for apprentice barristers, known as devils, to attend court with their “masters” – qualified barristers who agree to take on apprentices – and observe proceedings.
Devilling is considered a key part of barrister training and can last for up to two years. It is usually unpaid and takes place after they have completed exams in the Kings Inn.
READ MORE
In May the Bar Council circulated guidelines stating there should be no issue with devils attending court. "Unfortunately in practice that is now effectively impossible," one devil said.
Devils are now “refused entry and cannot attend. On a number of occasions I have been instructed – in fact, roared at – to leave by tipstaff,” he said.
“Devils are largely not remunerated, which is falsely rationalised by us getting experience in return – now we don’t even get that much.
“Many people have had little work for the past three months and this now compounds it going forward. It is also completely unclear how this is compatible with justice being done in public.”
Possible solutions
A spokesman for the Bar Council, which oversees the barrister profession, said it recognised that devils’ attendance at court had been “significantly impacted” by the pandemic.
It said it had made representations to the Courts Service to explore solutions to the issue in line with the “continued safe operation of the courts”.
“The Bar continues to propose and advance workable solutions to these issues, and undoubtedly the courts and judiciary appreciate the importance of direct experience and involvement in court proceedings in the professional formation of young barristers.”
The Courts Service is also beginning to hold hearings in larger, non-court buildings where more people can attend.


theirishtimes--2020-11-02--Decision to shut Phoenix Park gates at weekends gets mixed reaction

There was a noticeable drop in traffic in Dublin ’ s Phoenix Park at the weekend following the closure of all but two of the park entrances .
The closure of six peripheral gates meant gardaí had to man only the Castleknock and Parkgate Street entrances , at either end of Chesterfield Avenue , to check if motorists were remaining within their 5km limit .
A garda on duty at the Parkgate Street entrance said the closure of the six gates , and some side roads leading to them , had not led to an increase in traffic on Chesterfield @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” drivers had to be turned around for breaking the Level 5 coronavirus restrictions .
The decision of the Office of Public Works on Friday afternoon to close the gates on Saturday and Sunday for the next five weekends followed particularly heavy traffic in the park over the bank holiday weekend , with motorists blocking footpaths and parking on the grass , both prohibited under the park ’ s bylaws .
The numbers partaking in a “ virtual ” Dublin city marathon and the good weather had likely contributed to the increase in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
While car numbers were down , there were still plenty of walkers and cyclists enjoying the brief respites between storms , particularly on Wellington Road , which was closed to traffic .
“ It ’ s much more peaceful , you can hear the sound of the Liffey below us and the wind in the trees , ” Annette O ’ Mara said .
“ I live nearby , and I do have a car but I haven ’ t driven into the park since March , you get used to it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I ’ d say the deer prefer it.
” Donal Breatnach , who lives in Stoneybatter , said he would prefer to see an end to commuter traffic using Chesterfield Avenue .
“ This is great , having no cars here , but I would rather no through traffic in the park , although I appreciate that might cause problems for people in Castleknock.
” Colm Maguire said he sometimes drove his car from the Tenters to the park , but said he would be in favour of greater traffic restrictions in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a park , there should be less traffic in it.
” Not all drivers were pleased with the gate closures .
“ It ’ s very annoying , ” said Kevin Connolly , who had driven from Finglas with his wife , Rhonda , and children Evan ( 8 ) and Adam ( 4 ) .
“ We come here every day .
The weather isn ’ t great today , but if it ’ s a nice day there won ’ t be anywhere to park , because they have closed several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gates .
It doesn ’ t make sense , because if you ’ re going by the Nphet rules on social distance , you shouldn ’ t be forcing people into the same area.
” Ms Connolly said : “ We planned to bring my father today , who ’ s 79 , but we decided not to because we were worried we wouldn ’ t get parking.
” Darragh Halpenny and Karen Cadoo , who had driven from Ranelagh with Sadhbh ( 8 ) , said shutting the gates gave the wrong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be incentivising people to come to the park , but this will act as a psychological disincentive as it ’ s an unwelcoming gesture for people who have to drive.
” Ms Cadoo said restricting motorists meant people would say in confined areas of the park instead of “ spreading out to appreciate what a wonderful amenity it is ” .

The Ashtown Gates to the Phoenix Park will remain locked for the next five weekends. Photograph: Alan Betson
There was a noticeable drop in traffic in Dublin’s Phoenix Park at the weekend following the closure of all but two of the park entrances.
The closure of six peripheral gates meant gardaí had to man only the Castleknock and Parkgate Street entrances, at either end of Chesterfield Avenue, to check if motorists were remaining within their 5km limit.
A garda on duty at the Parkgate Street entrance said the closure of the six gates, and some side roads leading to them, had not led to an increase in traffic on Chesterfield Avenue and he said “very few” drivers had to be turned around for breaking the Level 5 coronavirus restrictions.
The decision of the Office of Public Works on Friday afternoon to close the gates on Saturday and Sunday for the next five weekends followed particularly heavy traffic in the park over the bank holiday weekend, with motorists blocking footpaths and parking on the grass, both prohibited under the park’s bylaws.
READ MORE
The numbers partaking in a "virtual" Dublin city marathon and the good weather had likely contributed to the increase in visitors that weekend, the garda said.
While car numbers were down, there were still plenty of walkers and cyclists enjoying the brief respites between storms, particularly on Wellington Road, which was closed to traffic.
“It’s much more peaceful, you can hear the sound of the Liffey below us and the wind in the trees,” Annette O’Mara said. “I live nearby, and I do have a car but I haven’t driven into the park since March, you get used to it and it’s good exercise, and I’d say the deer prefer it.”
Donal Breatnach, who lives in Stoneybatter, said he would prefer to see an end to commuter traffic using Chesterfield Avenue. “This is great, having no cars here, but I would rather no through traffic in the park, although I appreciate that might cause problems for people in Castleknock.”
Colm Maguire said he sometimes drove his car from the Tenters to the park, but said he would be in favour of greater traffic restrictions in the future. “It’s a park, there should be less traffic in it.”
The gates to the Phoenix Park on Dublin’s North Circular Road were among those closed at the weekend. Photograph: Alan Betson
‘Very annoying’
Not all drivers were pleased with the gate closures. “It’s very annoying,” said Kevin Connolly, who had driven from Finglas with his wife, Rhonda, and children Evan (8) and Adam (4).
“We come here every day. The weather isn’t great today, but if it’s a nice day there won’t be anywhere to park, because they have closed several of the car parks along with the gates. It doesn’t make sense, because if you’re going by the Nphet rules on social distance, you shouldn’t be forcing people into the same area.”
Ms Connolly said: “We planned to bring my father today, who’s 79, but we decided not to because we were worried we wouldn’t get parking.”
Darragh Halpenny and Karen Cadoo, who had driven from Ranelagh with Sadhbh (8), said shutting the gates gave the wrong message during the pandemic. “They should be incentivising people to come to the park, but this will act as a psychological disincentive as it’s an unwelcoming gesture for people who have to drive.”
Ms Cadoo said restricting motorists meant people would say in confined areas of the park instead of “spreading out to appreciate what a wonderful amenity it is”.


theirishtimes--2020-11-02--Top 10 tips on how to make the most of college open days

The new era of interactions and means of communications imposed on society by Covid19 has transformed every aspect of our lives .
The virtual “ Open Day ” enables colleges to present their offerings across all their undergraduate and post graduate programmes to prospective students .
In our current pre-vaccine world , what is on offer currently , and what is being experienced by the current student body , is the virtual college experience , where most lectures and virtually all social activities built around colleges clubs and societies is delivered online , with practicals and small group tutorials being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ How should those considering their undergraduate options for 2021 go about the process of identifying which courses to short list over the coming six to eight months ?
Hopefully by next August when college offers are made , an effective vaccine will have been produced , and student life will have returned to pre Covid19 reality .
However , the world of third level education has discovered that delivering lecture content online is in fact highly effective and allows lecturers and students to explore the content of the course far more effectively in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ digested electronically by students .
The days of note taking in five hundred-seater lecture theatres may have become a thing of the past .
The following 10 points are worth considering ahead of open day season : 1 .
Given the reality of the pandemic , and the fact that colleges are reimagining how they will deliver their programmes in a post Covid19 world , it is vitally important that prospective students inform themselves about what each faculty is offering for 2021 and beyond - before the online events take place .
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of all CAO and FE courses on offer nationwide , and it is vitally important that those considering seeking a college place in 2021 undertake the basic research before participating in the open day experience .
2 .
Before participating in an open day , ensure you are studying the required subjects to the appropriate level to be eligible for a place on the course .
You would be amazed how many students list courses on their CAO application for which they can ’ t be offered a place because they won ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 .
Don ’ t ignore a course or open day because you don ’ t expect to get enough points .
You may do far better than you anticipate .
Thousands of students make this mistake every year .
Also , points move up and down as demand fluctuates .
The most disappointed students every August , when they receive their Leaving Cert results and CAO offers , are those who realise they could have had their dream course but did not put it at the top of their course choices .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ s website .
Yes , its academic programmes are central , and the purpose for its existence , but lectures are just a fraction of the activities .
The college you choose for the next few years will have a huge influence on the type of person you become .
Its clubs , societies , student services , outreach programmes , Erasmus opportunities ( for a year studying abroad ) and opportunities in the college city or town will be as important in shaping you as your lectures or subjects .
5 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , jot down some questions .
This will clarify what you hope to get out of the day .
When you log on to the event , you will probably have a formal introduction and a schedule of lectures or talks .
Before you leave this session , see if the programme covers your questions .
If it doesn ’ t , ask the presenter where you can get the extra information you need .
6 .
As you move from online presentation to online presentation , reflect on what it would feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place .
Do you feel good about what you are seeing on the screen in front of you ?
Do you feel at ease ?
Don ’ t dismiss your gut feeling - it is almost always right .
7 .
For many students , the size of the college or class group matters .
You may seek a big campus full of bustle and excitement , with thousands of students in each year , or you might find such an environment intimidating and prefer a more intimate college , where smaller groups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quickly .
8 .
I have met many students over the years who have found large colleges intensely lonely .
Everyone else seems to be having a great time , and making friends easily , while they struggle to find even one good friend .
Many colleges are aware of these difficulties and work to help students find their feet in first year .
On open day , ask about the support services for new students .
The answer is often a good guide to the quality of the overall package .
9 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are opportunities for prospective students to question current students about their experience of the courses you are interested in .
Colleges that are comfortable allowing you to meet current students usually provide a high quality of service .
Colleges who host open days when no students are present , thus ensuring that visitors have little access to engage with them , may give you cause to question why .
10 .
When you log off from the open day event quietly reflect about the feelings you have concerning your experience and write out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You will be amazed at the things that strike you if you give yourself the time and space to do this .
The process will help you to draw together all you have experienced during the event and give you a rich resource to reread when you have to submit your final list of course choices to the CAO , by the final deadline of July 1st , 2021 .

The new era of interactions and means of communications imposed on society by Covid19 has transformed every aspect of our lives.
The virtual “Open Day” enables colleges to present their offerings across all their undergraduate and post graduate programmes to prospective students.
In our current pre-vaccine world, what is on offer currently, and what is being experienced by the current student body, is the virtual college experience, where most lectures and virtually all social activities built around colleges clubs and societies is delivered online, with practicals and small group tutorials being delivered face-to-face in socially distanced ways.
How should those considering their undergraduate options for 2021 go about the process of identifying which courses to short list over the coming six to eight months?
READ MORE
Hopefully by next August when college offers are made, an effective vaccine will have been produced, and student life will have returned to pre Covid19 reality.
However, the world of third level education has discovered that delivering lecture content online is in fact highly effective and allows lecturers and students to explore the content of the course far more effectively in smaller groups once the material has been digested electronically by students.
The days of note taking in five hundred-seater lecture theatres may have become a thing of the past. The following 10 points are worth considering ahead of open day season:
1. Given the reality of the pandemic, and the fact that colleges are reimagining how they will deliver their programmes in a post Covid19 world, it is vitally important that prospective students inform themselves about what each faculty is offering for 2021 and beyond - before the online events take place. As always qualifax.ie carries the entire national database of all CAO and FE courses on offer nationwide, and it is vitally important that those considering seeking a college place in 2021 undertake the basic research before participating in the open day experience.
2. Before participating in an open day, ensure you are studying the required subjects to the appropriate level to be eligible for a place on the course. You would be amazed how many students list courses on their CAO application for which they can’t be offered a place because they won’t have the minimum entry requirements.
3. Don’t ignore a course or open day because you don’t expect to get enough points. You may do far better than you anticipate. Thousands of students make this mistake every year. Also, points move up and down as demand fluctuates. The most disappointed students every August, when they receive their Leaving Cert results and CAO offers, are those who realise they could have had their dream course but did not put it at the top of their course choices.
4. Thoroughly explore the college’s website. Yes, its academic programmes are central, and the purpose for its existence, but lectures are just a fraction of the activities. The college you choose for the next few years will have a huge influence on the type of person you become. Its clubs, societies, student services, outreach programmes, Erasmus opportunities (for a year studying abroad) and opportunities in the college city or town will be as important in shaping you as your lectures or subjects.
5. In the week before an open day, jot down some questions. This will clarify what you hope to get out of the day. When you log on to the event, you will probably have a formal introduction and a schedule of lectures or talks. Before you leave this session, see if the programme covers your questions. If it doesn’t, ask the presenter where you can get the extra information you need.
6. As you move from online presentation to online presentation, reflect on what it would feel like to live and study in this place. Do you feel good about what you are seeing on the screen in front of you? Do you feel at ease? Don’t dismiss your gut feeling - it is almost always right.
7. For many students, the size of the college or class group matters. You may seek a big campus full of bustle and excitement, with thousands of students in each year, or you might find such an environment intimidating and prefer a more intimate college, where smaller groups of students get to know each other quickly.
8. I have met many students over the years who have found large colleges intensely lonely. Everyone else seems to be having a great time, and making friends easily, while they struggle to find even one good friend. Many colleges are aware of these difficulties and work to help students find their feet in first year. On open day, ask about the support services for new students. The answer is often a good guide to the quality of the overall package.
9. Central to most online open days are opportunities for prospective students to question current students about their experience of the courses you are interested in. Colleges that are comfortable allowing you to meet current students usually provide a high quality of service. Colleges who host open days when no students are present, thus ensuring that visitors have little access to engage with them, may give you cause to question why.
10. When you log off from the open day event quietly reflect about the feelings you have concerning your experience and write out your personal reflections on the day. You will be amazed at the things that strike you if you give yourself the time and space to do this. The process will help you to draw together all you have experienced during the event and give you a rich resource to reread when you have to submit your final list of course choices to the CAO, by the final deadline of July 1st, 2021.


theirishtimes--2020-11-01--Gardaí hope further pathology tests explain how Seema Banu died

Detectives investigating the murders of two children and the death of their mother in Dublin have been piecing together their last known movements and contacts they had in their final days .
Gardaí were trying to establish the identity of every person seen last week around their house in Ballinteer where their bodies were found , with footage taken from privately installed cameras and CCTV systems on local businesses and roads to be painstakingly reviewed .
Telephone , social media and messaging app activity was also being reviewed in a bid to establish when Seema Banu ( 37 ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and son Faizan Syed ( 6 ) were last seen alive or contacted by family and friends .
Postmortems on the remains of the two children have confirmed they were murdered , by strangulation .
Once the results of the postmortems on the children ’ s remains were confirmed last Friday , the case was classified as a murder investigation .
A ligature was also found with the remains of Ms Banu and the postmortem has established this brought about her death .
However , precisely how that happened , and specifically whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be established .
Gardaí are concerned that without a conclusive finding about Ms Banu ’ s cause of death , the investigation may become very complex and would become frustrated .
Further pathology testing was planned in a bid to bring clarity to that crucial aspect of the case and gardaí were hopeful more work in that area would lead to a breakthrough .
Garda sources said unless investigators could conclusively determine that Ms Banu was murdered , and did not take her own life , the possibility that nobody else was involved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ruled out .
However , the same sources added the murder investigation into the deaths of the children may yield information , including forensic evidence , that would “ put more context ” on their mother ’ s death .
“ It may put another person at the scene at the time of all three deaths and obviously that would be very significant , ” said one source .
The family , who were from India , were living at a house on Llewellyn Court , Ballinteer , where their bodies were found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Local people were concerned for Ms Banu and her children as they had not seen them for several days and the blinds in the house were drawn and so they called gardaí to report their concerns .
When gardaí from Dundrum Garda station arrived at the house and forced their way in , Ms Banu was found dead in a bedroom of the semi-detached house and her son and daughter were dead in another bedroom .
Their bodies had been there for several days and a tap had been left running in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are expected to interview Ms Banu ’ s family in India and also speak to people in her social circle in Ireland , where she had been living for a number of years , in a bid to learn everything about her life in the days leading to her death .
Garda sources said building a picture of the lives of the mother and her children over the past year , during which they moved house and the children changed schools , may also prove important for the investigation .

Flowers at the house in Llewellyn Court, Ballinteer, where Seema Banu and her two children were found dead on Wednesday afternoon. Photograph: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin
Detectives investigating the murders of two children and the death of their mother in Dublin have been piecing together their last known movements and contacts they had in their final days.
Gardaí were trying to establish the identity of every person seen last week around their house in Ballinteer where their bodies were found, with footage taken from privately installed cameras and CCTV systems on local businesses and roads to be painstakingly reviewed.
Telephone, social media and messaging app activity was also being reviewed in a bid to establish when Seema Banu (37), her daughter Asfira Riza (11) and son Faizan Syed (6) were last seen alive or contacted by family and friends.
Postmortems on the remains of the two children have confirmed they were murdered, by strangulation. Once the results of the postmortems on the children’s remains were confirmed last Friday, the case was classified as a murder investigation.
READ MORE
A ligature was also found with the remains of Ms Banu and the postmortem has established this brought about her death. However, precisely how that happened, and specifically whether she was murdered, has yet to be established.
Conclusive findings
Gardaí are concerned that without a conclusive finding about Ms Banu’s cause of death, the investigation may become very complex and would become frustrated.
Further pathology testing was planned in a bid to bring clarity to that crucial aspect of the case and gardaí were hopeful more work in that area would lead to a breakthrough.
Garda sources said unless investigators could conclusively determine that Ms Banu was murdered, and did not take her own life, the possibility that nobody else was involved in all three deaths could never be ruled out.
However, the same sources added the murder investigation into the deaths of the children may yield information, including forensic evidence, that would “put more context” on their mother’s death.
“It may put another person at the scene at the time of all three deaths and obviously that would be very significant,” said one source.
The family, who were from India, were living at a house on Llewellyn Court, Ballinteer, where their bodies were found by gardaí early last Wednesday afternoon.
Local people were concerned for Ms Banu and her children as they had not seen them for several days and the blinds in the house were drawn and so they called gardaí to report their concerns.
Water damage
When gardaí from Dundrum Garda station arrived at the house and forced their way in, Ms Banu was found dead in a bedroom of the semi-detached house and her son and daughter were dead in another bedroom. Their bodies had been there for several days and a tap had been left running in the property, causing significant damage.
Gardaí are expected to interview Ms Banu's family in India and also speak to people in her social circle in Ireland, where she had been living for a number of years, in a bid to learn everything about her life in the days leading to her death.
Garda sources said building a picture of the lives of the mother and her children over the past year, during which they moved house and the children changed schools, may also prove important for the investigation.