theirishtimes--2020-02-07--Man squatting at asylum centre had €500,000 in his account, court told

A 40-year-old man who was “ squatting ” at an asylum centre while he allegedly had access to €500,000 has been refused bail on charges related to a money laundering investigation .
John Sankeni , with no fixed address , appeared before Judge John Lindsay at Dublin District Court on Friday following his arrest by members of the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau .
He faced two charges of theft of €4,500 and €1,500 from a Greek Shipping company at a bank in west Dublin on July 7th , 2016 .
He also had a connected charged for failing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was arrested on Thursday as he attended the offices of the Garda National Immigration Bureau in Dublin city-centre in relation to immigration matters .
He was then brought to Irishtown Garda station where he was charged .
Garda Sean Byrne said the accused replied “ Okay ” after each charge was put to him .
Further charges in relation to money laundering will be brought , Garda Byrne said .
He objected to bail citing concerns the accused was a flight risk and had access to €500,000 in a bank account .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but he had not lived there for 10 years .
Defence solicitor Tony Collier pleaded for bail and said his client had lived in Ireland for 10 years .
The accused instructed his solicitor he had been in receipt of social welfare payments which obtained at a post office in Lucan .
However , the prosecuting garda said there was no record of that .
He agreed the man had just €7 cash on him , as well as a bank card , when arrested .
Another home address in Swords in north @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heard he claimed he had lived at the Mosney direct provision centre in Co Meath .
However , it had no record of the man , the court was told .
Mr Collier told the judge his client had been living there unofficially and he was “ squatting ” at the centre because his partner lived there .
He said Mr Sankeni had not been charged with money laundering offences and he argued that it was premature to deny bail at this stage .
However , Judge Lindsay refused bail and remanded himin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on February 14th .
Legal aid was granted to the accused , who did not address the court and has not yet indicated a plea .

The court heard the accused was ‘squatting’ at the Mosney refugee reception centre in Co Meath. Photograph by Frank Miller
A 40-year-old man who was “squatting” at an asylum centre while he allegedly had access to €500,000 has been refused bail on charges related to a money laundering investigation.
John Sankeni, with no fixed address, appeared before Judge John Lindsay at Dublin District Court on Friday following his arrest by members of the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau.
He faced two charges of theft of €4,500 and €1,500 from a Greek Shipping company at a bank in west Dublin on July 7th, 2016. He also had a connected charged for failing to give gardaí his correct address.
He was arrested on Thursday as he attended the offices of the Garda National Immigration Bureau in Dublin city-centre in relation to immigration matters.
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He was then brought to Irishtown Garda station where he was charged.
Garda Sean Byrne said the accused replied “Okay” after each charge was put to him. Further charges in relation to money laundering will be brought, Garda Byrne said.
He objected to bail citing concerns the accused was a flight risk and had access to €500,000 in a bank account.
The garda said the accused provided one address but he had not lived there for 10 years.
Defence solicitor Tony Collier pleaded for bail and said his client had lived in Ireland for 10 years.
The accused instructed his solicitor he had been in receipt of social welfare payments which obtained at a post office in Lucan.
However, the prosecuting garda said there was no record of that. He agreed the man had just €7 cash on him, as well as a bank card, when arrested.
Another home address in Swords in north Co Dublin was given. The court heard he claimed he had lived at the Mosney direct provision centre in Co Meath. However, it had no record of the man, the court was told.
Mr Collier told the judge his client had been living there unofficially and he was “squatting” at the centre because his partner lived there.
He said Mr Sankeni had not been charged with money laundering offences and he argued that it was premature to deny bail at this stage.
However, Judge Lindsay refused bail and remanded himin custody to appear at Cloverhill District Court on February 14th.
Legal aid was granted to the accused, who did not address the court and has not yet indicated a plea.


theirishtimes--2020-02-07--‘They’re for the birds’: Council criticised for fining pensioner over feeding birds

A pensioner is facing prosecution for refusing to pay a “ ridiculous ” €150 fine for feeding birds near her home .
Breda Moynihan ( 70 ) , who lives in Limerick ’ s Lee estate , said she was “ absolutely stunned ” when she received the penalty in the post under the Litter Pollution Act 1997 .
She has been feeding birds “ forever ” at a green near her home and was approached by a council worker almost two weeks ago who reprimanded her , she said .
“ I am a great animal lover , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ walking along the bank near where I live and I was just feeding ( seagulls ) little bits of bread as I was walking , and this man came over to me and said ‘ you know , you are not supposed to feed the birds , they cause rats ’ .
” Ms Moynihan , who also feeds horses carrots and looks after stray cats , told the council worker the gulls swoop down to her and eat the bread up straight away .
“ They know me , ” she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Today with Sean O ’ Rourke that she ignored the official ’ s rebuke and continued on before heading back home .
“ I didn ’ t think much about it .
He didn ’ t ask me for any information , any name or address .
I went back to my home and he took off in his car , and that was it.
” But a few days later she received the fine in the post accusing her of “ food throwing on a green area ” .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ I just didn ’ t take it in straight away .
It is ridiculous .
I though it was disgraceful and outrageous - for just being kind to an animal .
Just being kind.
” Ms Moynihan said she would not be paying the fine .
“ I ’ m a pensioner so I wouldn ’ t have that money , ” she added .
A spokesman for Limerick City Council told The Irish Times anyone refusing to pay a fine faces prosecution .
“ There is a process there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ But anyone who doesn ’ t pay a fine can be prosecuted .
It is part of the regulations.
” Former councillor John Gilligan , who has taken up Ms Moynihan ’ s plight , told the Limerick Leader she was the city ’ s “ own Mary Poppins ” and accused the council of persecuting the pensioner .
“ They ’ re for the birds , ” he said .

“I was walking along the bank near where I live and I was just feeding (seagulls) little bits of bread as I was walking, and this man came over to me and said ‘you know,you are not supposed to feed the birds, they cause rats’,” said Limerick woman Breda Moynihan. Photograph: iStock
A pensioner is facing prosecution for refusing to pay a “ridiculous” €150 fine for feeding birds near her home.
Breda Moynihan (70), who lives in Limerick's Lee estate, said she was "absolutely stunned" when she received the penalty in the post under the Litter Pollution Act 1997.
She has been feeding birds “forever” at a green near her home and was approached by a council worker almost two weeks ago who reprimanded her, she said.
“I am a great animal lover,” said the grandmother.
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“I was walking along the bank near where I live and I was just feeding (seagulls) little bits of bread as I was walking, and this man came over to me and said ‘you know,you are not supposed to feed the birds, they cause rats’.”
Ms Moynihan, who also feeds horses carrots and looks after stray cats, told the council worker the gulls swoop down to her and eat the bread up straight away.
“They know me,” she said of the birds.
She told RTÉ’s Today with Sean O’Rourke that she ignored the official’s rebuke and continued on before heading back home.
“I didn’t think much about it. He didn’t ask me for any information, any name or address. I went back to my home and he took off in his car, and that was it.”
But a few days later she received the fine in the post accusing her of “food throwing on a green area”.
“I was stunned really,” she said.
“I just didn’t take it in straight away. It is ridiculous. I though it was disgraceful and outrageous - for just being kind to an animal. Just being kind.”
Ms Moynihan said she would not be paying the fine. “I’m a pensioner so I wouldn’t have that money,” she added.
A spokesman for Limerick City Council told The Irish Times anyone refusing to pay a fine faces prosecution.
“There is a process there to appeal it,” he said.
“But anyone who doesn’t pay a fine can be prosecuted. It is part of the regulations.”
Former councillor John Gilligan, who has taken up Ms Moynihan's plight, told the Limerick Leader she was the city's "own Mary Poppins" and accused the council of persecuting the pensioner.
“They’re for the birds,” he said.


theirishtimes--2020-02-07--So you still have an eircom.net email? Here is what you need to do

News that Eir is to impose a €5.99 monthly charge on users of its eircom.net email addresses from the beginning of April has been met with dismay by thousands of people who have used the service for almost 20 years .
Users have contacted The Irish Times to express frustration at the move and to ask what options they have .
While the frustration is understandable there is nothing that can compel a company to continue providing service – particularly a free service – indefinitely so people with eircom.net email addresses have two choices : pay up or leave .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ two-month window in which to decide to either pay the monthly fee or have their account deleted .
The good news is there are plenty of free alternatives on the market for those who chose to move and switching to another account is straight-forward .
First off , if you are an affected user you will need to set up a new free email account , with for example gmail .
You will then have to get the emails and other data from your old eircom.net account and tell your contacts you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free account can be set up at gmail.com .
A good idea is to set up an email address which is a close to your eircom.net address as possible .
You should create a strong password using a combination of numbers , letters and special characters and include a recovery email address and a recovery phone number to help if you ever need to recover a password if it is lost or forgotten .
The next step is to merge your old eircom.net account to the new gmail account .
It sounds more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ log into your new gmail account you will see the settings in the top right hand corner of the screen .
After clicking on “ Settings ” you will need to click on “ Account and Import ” or “ Accounts ” and then click “ add a mail account ” .
Then enter your eircom.net account details and click “ next ” .
You should then follow the on-screen detail by clicking “ next ” until you get to the screen below and fill in the details using your actual email address @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other details so they match the below .
And then you will be all set .
Your emails from eircom.net will be on your new service and the addresses of the people who you routinely contact by email will still be easy to find .
While this all may sound complicated and headache-inducing it is actually quite simple and once it is done , it will be done forever and if you so choose you will be able to shut down your soon-to-be-dear eircom email addresses without losing any important information .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is getting easier and easier and if you make a few mistakes you can always try it again until you get it right without placing existing data at risk .
It is , however , better that you do it now when you have the luxury of time on your hands rather than waiting until the end of March when you may be under more pressure to migrate your mail and contacts from one email service to another or else risk losing a load of information .

Eir users have contacted The Irish Times to express frustration at the move and to ask what options they have. Photograph: Alan Betson
News that Eir is to impose a €5.99 monthly charge on users of its eircom.net email addresses from the beginning of April has been met with dismay by thousands of people who have used the service for almost 20 years.
Users have contacted The Irish Times to express frustration at the move and to ask what options they have.
While the frustration is understandable there is nothing that can compel a company to continue providing service – particularly a free service – indefinitely so people with eircom.net email addresses have two choices: pay up or leave.
From March 31st customers will have a two-month window in which to decide to either pay the monthly fee or have their account deleted.
READ MORE
The good news is there are plenty of free alternatives on the market for those who chose to move and switching to another account is straight-forward.
First off, if you are an affected user you will need to set up a new free email account, with for example gmail. You will then have to get the emails and other data from your old eircom.net account and tell your contacts you have changed your email address.
Merging accounts
A new free account can be set up at gmail.com. A good idea is to set up an email address which is a close to your eircom.net address as possible. You should create a strong password using a combination of numbers, letters and special characters and include a recovery email address and a recovery phone number to help if you ever need to recover a password if it is lost or forgotten.
The next step is to merge your old eircom.net account to the new gmail account. It sounds more complicated than it is; when you log into your new gmail account you will see the settings in the top right hand corner of the screen.
After clicking on “Settings” you will need to click on “Account and Import” or “Accounts” and then click “add a mail account”.
Then enter your eircom.net account details and click “next”. You should then follow the on-screen detail by clicking “next” until you get to the screen below and fill in the details using your actual email address in place of the XYZ. Change other details so they match the below.
And then you will be all set.
Easier and easier
Your emails from eircom.net will be on your new service and the addresses of the people who you routinely contact by email will still be easy to find.
While this all may sound complicated and headache-inducing it is actually quite simple and once it is done, it will be done forever and if you so choose you will be able to shut down your soon-to-be-dear eircom email addresses without losing any important information.
It is also worth remembering that using technology is getting easier and easier and if you make a few mistakes you can always try it again until you get it right without placing existing data at risk.
It is, however, better that you do it now when you have the luxury of time on your hands rather than waiting until the end of March when you may be under more pressure to migrate your mail and contacts from one email service to another or else risk losing a load of information.


theirishtimes--2020-02-07--Gardaí had ‘no general power’ to enter flat to arrest man, High Court rules

Gardaí did not have a general power to enter the flat of a man and arrest him for breach of the peace after they had been called to a disturbance at his home , the High Court has ruled .
Mr Justice Charles Meenan said , while gardai had a power to do so under the criminal law , they did not invoke that power when they entered Philip O ’ Brien ’ s flat in Marino Apartments , Tralee , Co Kerry .
They did not therefore enjoy a common law power to enter the dwelling to arrest him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to common law , he found .
The judge reversed a conviction for obstruction imposed on Mr O ’ Brien arising out of the incident .
On May 26th , 2017 , when gardaí were called to a disturbance at Mr O ’ Brien ’ s home , they found a living room window had been broken and a block of knives lay on the ground outside the window .
A garda , along with three colleagues , could see Mr O ’ Brien in an agitated state through the broken window and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with several items scattered around the room .
An officer tried to speak with him through the open window and then gardaí went to the front door where they found Mr O ’ Brien still agitated .
Garda John Coffey said , while trying to speak with him at the doorway , Mr O ’ Brien spat in his face .
Garda Coffey and his colleagues then entered the apartment where Mr O ’ Brien retreated to the kitchen .
Gardaí could see a knife on the floor and Garda Coffey said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and arrested for breach of the peace .
He was later charged with obstructing a garda and common assault .
At his District Court hearing , his lawyer argued he had no case to answer as gardaí had no right under common law to enter his home to arrest him for breach of the peace .
This was , the lawyer said , a breach of the constitutional right to inviolability of the home .
The District Judge rejected the submission and convicted him of obstruction .
Mr O ’ Brien then brought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stated to the High Court , asking the court to determine whether gardaí had such a common law power .
The DPP opposed the appeal .
Mr Justice Meenan said Section 6 of the Criminal Law Act 1997 empowers gardaí to enter a home without a warrant for an arrestable offence in certain circumstances including where they have cause to believe a person will obstruct the course of justice .
In this case , that power was not relied upon and therefore did not apply .
Any restriction on the constitutional right that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minimal and , except where life is in imminent danger , the restrictions on that right are set out in the 1997 Act .
He found the District Judge was not correct in holding Mr O ’ Brien had a case to answer in relation to obstruction and he reversed the District Court decision .

The judge reversed a conviction for obstruction imposed on Philip O’Brien arising out of the incident. Photograph: Cyril Byrne
Gardaí did not have a general power to enter the flat of a man and arrest him for breach of the peace after they had been called to a disturbance at his home, the High Court has ruled.
Mr Justice Charles Meenan said, while gardai had a power to do so under the criminal law, they did not invoke that power when they entered Philip O'Brien's flat in Marino Apartments, Tralee, Co Kerry.
They did not therefore enjoy a common law power to enter the dwelling to arrest him for breach of the peace, contrary to common law, he found.
The judge reversed a conviction for obstruction imposed on Mr O’Brien arising out of the incident.
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On May 26th, 2017, when gardaí were called to a disturbance at Mr O’Brien’s home, they found a living room window had been broken and a block of knives lay on the ground outside the window.
A garda, along with three colleagues, could see Mr O’Brien in an agitated state through the broken window and it appeared the apartment had been damaged with several items scattered around the room.
An officer tried to speak with him through the open window and then gardaí went to the front door where they found Mr O’Brien still agitated.
Garda John Coffey said, while trying to speak with him at the doorway, Mr O’Brien spat in his face.
Violently resisted
Garda Coffey and his colleagues then entered the apartment where Mr O’Brien retreated to the kitchen.
Gardaí could see a knife on the floor and Garda Coffey said the defendant violently resisted. He was restrained and arrested for breach of the peace.
He was later charged with obstructing a garda and common assault.
At his District Court hearing, his lawyer argued he had no case to answer as gardaí had no right under common law to enter his home to arrest him for breach of the peace.
This was, the lawyer said, a breach of the constitutional right to inviolability of the home.
The District Judge rejected the submission and convicted him of obstruction.
Mr O’Brien then brought an appeal, by way of case stated to the High Court, asking the court to determine whether gardaí had such a common law power. The DPP opposed the appeal.
Mr Justice Meenan said Section 6 of the Criminal Law Act 1997 empowers gardaí to enter a home without a warrant for an arrestable offence in certain circumstances including where they have cause to believe a person will obstruct the course of justice.
In this case, that power was not relied upon and therefore did not apply.
Any restriction on the constitutional right that may be permitted by law must be minimal and, except where life is in imminent danger, the restrictions on that right are set out in the 1997 Act.
He found the District Judge was not correct in holding Mr O’Brien had a case to answer in relation to obstruction and he reversed the District Court decision.


theirishtimes--2020-02-07--High winds and heavy rain to batter the country as Storm Ciara approaches

Met Éireann has upgraded its weather warnings from yellow to orange with winds gusting at up to 120 km/h expected in Galway , Donegal and Mayo .
The second highest level of alert will be in place for the three western seaboard counties on election day between midday and 4pm in Donegal and Mayo and between 1pm and 6pm in Galway .
A status orange weather alert warns of “ infrequent and dangerous weather conditions which may pose a threat to life and property ” and people should not venture out in such conditions .
The rest of the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wind and rain on Saturday and Sunday .
Storm Ciara is set to cross the country on Sunday , but its worst impact will be experienced in Northern Ireland and Great Britain with the British Met Office warning that it could be most the violent storm to hit the UK since 2013 .
The Met Office expects “ widespread gales ” that could pose a “ danger to life ” .
Storm Ciara will be followed by strong blustery winds and icy temperatures which could bring 10cms ( four inches ) of snow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Voters have been advised to go to the polls early on Saturday with heavy rain and strong winds set to hit the country from midday .
There is a yellow wind warning with gusts reaching 90-110km/h for the other 23 counties and a yellow rain warning with 80mm of rain expected on Saturday or Sunday across the country .
There is a possibility of coastal and spot flooding in the south and west on both days .
The opening ceremony for Galway2020 , which was due to take place tomorrow at 6pm in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under review because of the weather .
The Galway 2020 team is meeting with Galway City Council to decide on whether or not to postpone the event .
Storm Ciara is due to hit Ireland and Britain on Sunday morning , but will be preceded by bad weather on Saturday , and Monday could see snow .
Met Éireann forecaster Aoife Murray said heavy rain will arrive into Connaught and west Ulster from midday and will spread across the country reaching the east coast by evening time .
“ It will be wet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day , ” she said .
“ There will be a brief respite on Saturday night , but the winds will only ease off slightly .
Everywhere is susceptible to heavy rain and with it damaging gusts on Sunday.
” Sunday morning will see the arrival of Storm Ciara which will bring with it possibly damaging gusts and gales along coasts .
Showers will follow in the afternoon .
Temperatures will be between 10 and 12 degrees but temperatures will fall dramatically on Sunday night .
Monday and Tuesday could see snow in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The highest chances of snow will be between Monday night and Tuesday morning and temperatures may be cold enough for lying snow on Tuesday morning .
Brokers Ireland has urged motorists to be extra careful to protect themselves and other road users during the inclement weather .
General Insurance Services director Cathie Shannon advised drivers to familiarise themselves with the detail of their car insurance policies and emergency numbers , in the event of a breakdown .
Having tyre pressure at the correct levels , as recommended by manufacturers , is particularly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tyres can be extremely hazardous in poor weather conditions .
Cold weather can decrease their pressure .
Tyre depth should be about 3mm , ” she said .
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution ( RNLI ) has advised people to stay away from coastal areas for the duration of Storm Ciara .
And the National Parks and Wildlife Service have advised the public not to visit Connemara National Park or Wild Nephin Ballycroy National Park while Met Éireann wind warnings are in place .
It has also advised the public not to visit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reserves in the areas covered by the weather warnings .
And it has said Derryclare Nature Reserve , Old Head Nature Reserve , Knochma Wood , near Tuam , Co Galway and Laughil Wood , near Pontoon , Co Mayo , will be closed .

Met Éireann has issued a snow/ice warning for the entire country warning of widespread wintry showers on Monday and Tuesday.
The forecaster said there would be some snowfall accumulations, especially in the west and north. "Some disruption to travel is possible, particularly over higher routes," it added in a warning issued at midday on Sunday. The yellow weather alert is in place from midnight on Sunday until midnight on Tuesday.
It said it would turn much colder on Sunday night "with showers turning wintry and giving falls of sleet and snow in some areas.
"Some snow lying by morning especially over hills in the North and West. Overnight lows of 0 to 3 degrees in strong westerly winds."
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It said Monday would be bitterly cold and very windy with a significant wind chill factor. "There will be a mix of sunny spells and widespread wintry showers with accumulations of snow in some areas. Highest temperatures of 3 to 6 degrees in strong westerly winds and with gales at the coast", it added.
"At the moment it looks like turning wet and windy for Wednesday evening/night followed by squally showers on Thursday with the ongoing risk of severe winds at times and wintry falls."
The wintery weather follows extremely wet and windy weather over the weekend that left thousands without power. A status orange wind warning for the entire country was issued as Storm Ciara passed over Ireland.
There was some travel disruption to flights and sailings into and out of Ireland. Aer Lingus advised travellers to check the status of their flight before departing for the airport, while Irish Ferries warned passengers there would be some disruption to sailings over the coming days .
The National Parks and Wildlife Service closed a number of parks around the country on Sunday and advised the public to not visit any national monuments or nature reserves while the warning is in place. The bad weather forced the organisers of Galway 2020 to cancel the opening ceremony.


theirishtimes--2020-02-09--Confidence and supply agreement has backfired for Fianna Fáil

Fianna Fáil may still be the largest party in the next Dáil , be in a position to lead a government and elect Micheál Martin as taoiseach , but it did not expect to find itself at this pass .
The party has slipped in vote share and could lose seats .
Martin ’ s project of rehabilitating the party after its role in the economic crash of a decade ago has stalled , and the confidence and supply agreement has backfired in electoral terms .
One of Fianna Fáil ’ s most prominent TDs – Lisa Chambers , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lose her Mayo seat .
The party still has huge problems in Dublin .
Fianna Fáil had a lacklustre but not necessarily bad campaign .
It seemed Martin had decided that a steady-as-she-goes approach was best and would convince voters that Fianna Fáil could bring about change , but change middle Ireland could trust .
Yet the structural cause of Fianna Fáil ’ s difficulties at this election go back to the last , and the decision to enter into the confidence and supply agreement which saw it underpin the Fine Gael-led minority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was Martin ’ s creation , having turned down an offer from Enda Kenny to enter into a so-called grand coalition between the two civil war parties .
It allowed for stable government , and was also a vehicle to allow Martin to show middle Ireland his party could be trusted again .
Originally intended to last for only three years , Martin extended the deal to take in a fourth budget due to Brexit uncertainty .
The extension , Fianna Fáil also thought , would provide extra time for the public to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Varadkar was riding high in opinion polls after the passage of the referendum to repeal the Eighth Amendment .
The political calculation that the shine would come off Varadkar was correct .
What was perhaps less expected was that confidence and supply would be used to such effect against Fianna Fáil by its opponents , principally Sinn Féin .
Mary Lou McDonald repeatedly tied Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil to each other on issues like housing and health , an attack which was hugely successful in neutralising Martin ’ s claim to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ election .
Those who voted for change and for Sinn Féin were , according to canvassers , voting not just against Fine Gael but against Fianna Fáil too .
Since he took over the wreckage of Fianna Fáil in February 2011 , Martin has shown patience with a parliamentary party that at times seemed to delight in opposing him and causing trouble .
Recent years have seen Martin impose greater discipline on his party but the outcome of this election weakens his position internally .
As he entered his own count centre in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ door to entering government with either Sinn Féin or Fine Gael – two outcomes he said he would not entertain during the campaign .
His statement allowed some TDs to publicly say what many have said privately : that coalition with Sinn Féin should not be ruled out .
Other TDs , such as Michael McGrath and Jim O ’ Callaghan , said they were opposed to such a government .
The debate is only starting within Fianna Fáil about what it should do .
McGrath said Sinn Féin ’ s economic policies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fáil , but he did not rule out coalition with Fine Gael .
Other TDs say another governing arrangement between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael is not the radical change the county asked for .
Martin will have to steer this delicate debate over the coming days and weeks .
It will be made more difficult by the fact that many TDs are likely to be unhappy with the party ’ s election performance .
There was already some grumbling from senior Fianna Fáil TDs that their appearances during the election campaign had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was more or less the Micheál Martin and Michael McGrath show , with other frontbench spokespeople making cameo appearances over the past 3½ weeks .
The election postmortem in Fianna Fáil will likely focus on whether confidence and supply hampered its performance in this election , and TDs may feel free to criticise the approach of the party leader .
Whatever course Martin chooses – coalition with Sinn Féin or coalition with Fine Gael – he may meet more resistance from within his ranks than he did when he entered into confidence and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still odds on to lead the next government , but he may have to take an unexpected route to the taoiseach ’ s office .

Fianna Fáil may still be the largest party in the next Dáil, be in a position to lead a government and elect Micheál Martin as taoiseach, but it did not expect to find itself at this pass.
The party has slipped in vote share and could lose seats. Martin’s project of rehabilitating the party after its role in the economic crash of a decade ago has stalled, and the confidence and supply agreement has backfired in electoral terms.
One of Fianna Fáil's most prominent TDs – Lisa Chambers, the Brexit spokeswoman – is on course to lose her Mayo seat. The party still has huge problems in Dublin.
Fianna Fáil had a lacklustre but not necessarily bad campaign. It seemed Martin had decided that a steady-as-she-goes approach was best and would convince voters that Fianna Fáil could bring about change, but change middle Ireland could trust.
READ MORE
Yet the structural cause of Fianna Fáil’s difficulties at this election go back to the last, and the decision to enter into the confidence and supply agreement which saw it underpin the Fine Gael-led minority government for four years.
The deal was Martin's creation, having turned down an offer from Enda Kenny to enter into a so-called grand coalition between the two civil war parties. It allowed for stable government, and was also a vehicle to allow Martin to show middle Ireland his party could be trusted again.
Originally intended to last for only three years, Martin extended the deal to take in a fourth budget due to Brexit uncertainty.
The extension, Fianna Fáil also thought, would provide extra time for the public to tire of Leo Varadkar. In mid-2018, Varadkar was riding high in opinion polls after the passage of the referendum to repeal the Eighth Amendment.
Calculation
The political calculation that the shine would come off Varadkar was correct. What was perhaps less expected was that confidence and supply would be used to such effect against Fianna Fáil by its opponents, principally Sinn Féin.
Mary Lou McDonald repeatedly tied Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil to each other on issues like housing and health, an attack which was hugely successful in neutralising Martin's claim to be the agent of change in the election.
Those who voted for change and for Sinn Féin were, according to canvassers, voting not just against Fine Gael but against Fianna Fáil too.
Since he took over the wreckage of Fianna Fáil in February 2011, Martin has shown patience with a parliamentary party that at times seemed to delight in opposing him and causing trouble.
Recent years have seen Martin impose greater discipline on his party but the outcome of this election weakens his position internally.
As he entered his own count centre in Cork South Central, he opened the door to entering government with either Sinn Féin or Fine Gael – two outcomes he said he would not entertain during the campaign.
His statement allowed some TDs to publicly say what many have said privately: that coalition with Sinn Féin should not be ruled out.
Other TDs, such as Michael McGrath and Jim O'Callaghan, said they were opposed to such a government.
Economic policies
The debate is only starting within Fianna Fáil about what it should do. McGrath said Sinn Féin’s economic policies are not compatible with those of Fianna Fáil, but he did not rule out coalition with Fine Gael.
Other TDs say another governing arrangement between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael is not the radical change the county asked for.
Martin will have to steer this delicate debate over the coming days and weeks. It will be made more difficult by the fact that many TDs are likely to be unhappy with the party’s election performance.
There was already some grumbling from senior Fianna Fáil TDs that their appearances during the election campaign had been limited.
The Fianna Fáil campaign was more or less the Micheál Martin and Michael McGrath show, with other frontbench spokespeople making cameo appearances over the past 3½ weeks.
The election postmortem in Fianna Fáil will likely focus on whether confidence and supply hampered its performance in this election, and TDs may feel free to criticise the approach of the party leader.
Whatever course Martin chooses – coalition with Sinn Féin or coalition with Fine Gael – he may meet more resistance from within his ranks than he did when he entered into confidence and supply four years ago.
Martin is still odds on to lead the next government, but he may have to take an unexpected route to the taoiseach’s office.


theirishtimes--2020-02-09--Cork women to face criminal charges of falsely claiming to be therapists

The body regulating health and social care workers in Ireland is to criminally prosecute two women for claiming to be registered therapists , the first case of its kind since the agency was set up 15 years ago .
Coru , which oversees a wide range of professions including social workers , dieticians and physiotherapists , alleges the women falsely claimed to be a speech and language therapist and an occupational therapist while operating a business together in Cork .
Both professions are “ protected titles ” meaning holders must be registered with Coru in order to practice , similar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Medical Council or solicitors with the Law Society .
The accused are both directors of Bright Spots , a Cork company which offers services to vulnerable children , including those with developmental disorders .
Lisa O ’ Driscoll of Ardcahon way , Coolkellure , Legenaghmore , Cork will face a charge of claiming to be a speech and language therapist while Emma Power of Clonlea , Mount Oval , Rochestown , Cork is accused of claiming to be an occupational therapist .
They will appear before Cork District Court on February @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to six months in prison or a maximum fine of €3,000 .
The case was set in motion after Coru received complaints , including from other therapists , that the women were improperly using protected titles .
This will be the first time Coru has used its powers to bring criminal prosecutions for misuse of titles since legislation was passed to set up the agency in 2005 .
It typically deals with breaches of professional standards through fitness to practice hearings which are usually held in private and can result in a practitioner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it does not have power to bring a practitioner before a fitness to practice hearing if they are not registered , as is the alleged case against Ms O ’ Driscoll and Ms Power .
In separate civil proceedings earlier this month , the High Court ordered the two women to cease providing therapy until they are registered with Coru .
They agreed to the conditions and told the court they were working on gaining proper registration .
The court heard the women were qualified in speech and language and occupation therapy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ register in Ireland , meaning Coru could not evaluate their accreditations .
Coru told the court it was concerned schools in Cork were engaging the women to provide therapy .
It said there were “ grave concerns ” Ms O ’ Driscoll and Ms Power were using the title of therapist to attract parents “ desperate ” to access services for their children .

Speech and language therapists must be registered with Coru in order to practice, similar to the requirement that doctors be registered with the Medical Council or solicitors with the Law Society. Photograph: iStock
The body regulating health and social care workers in Ireland is to criminally prosecute two women for claiming to be registered therapists, the first case of its kind since the agency was set up 15 years ago.
Coru, which oversees a wide range of professions including social workers, dieticians and physiotherapists, alleges the women falsely claimed to be a speech and language therapist and an occupational therapist while operating a business together in Cork.
Both professions are "protected titles" meaning holders must be registered with Coru in order to practice, similar to the requirement that doctors be registered with the Medical Council or solicitors with the Law Society.
The accused are both directors of Bright Spots, a Cork company which offers services to vulnerable children, including those with developmental disorders.
READ MORE
Lisa O'Driscoll of Ardcahon way, Coolkellure, Legenaghmore, Cork will face a charge of claiming to be a speech and language therapist while Emma Power of Clonlea, Mount Oval, Rochestown, Cork is accused of claiming to be an occupational therapist.
They will appear before Cork District Court on February 26th. If convicted they face up to six months in prison or a maximum fine of €3,000.
The case was set in motion after Coru received complaints, including from other therapists, that the women were improperly using protected titles.
‘Grave concerns’
This will be the first time Coru has used its powers to bring criminal prosecutions for misuse of titles since legislation was passed to set up the agency in 2005.
It typically deals with breaches of professional standards through fitness to practice hearings which are usually held in private and can result in a practitioner being struck off or reprimanded.
However, it does not have power to bring a practitioner before a fitness to practice hearing if they are not registered, as is the alleged case against Ms O’Driscoll and Ms Power.
In separate civil proceedings earlier this month, the High Court ordered the two women to cease providing therapy until they are registered with Coru. They agreed to the conditions and told the court they were working on gaining proper registration.
The court heard the women were qualified in speech and language and occupation therapy in the UK but had failed to register in Ireland, meaning Coru could not evaluate their accreditations.
Coru told the court it was concerned schools in Cork were engaging the women to provide therapy. It said there were “grave concerns” Ms O’Driscoll and Ms Power were using the title of therapist to attract parents “desperate” to access services for their children.


theirishtimes--2020-02-09--Five men arrested after burglary at Monaghan shop

Five men have been arrested following a burglary at a shop in Monaghan town during which electronic devices worth an @ @ @ @ @ Gardaí were called to the shop at Church Square on Saturday morning and found the @ @ @ @ @ damaged and a large amount of stock had been taken .
A follow-up search was @ @ @ @ @ car on the N2 a short time later .
A Garda spokesman said a sledgehammer @ @ @ @ @ as well as the property stolen from the shop .
Five men , aged between @ @ @ @ @ were travelling in the car were then arrested .
Four of them were taken to @ @ @ @ @ were detained under the provisions of Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 .
@ @ @ @ @ at Carrickmacross .
The spokesman said a number of related searches took place in Dublin @ @ @ @ @ Kildare on Sunday and that investigations are ongoing .

Five men have been arrested following a burglary at a shop in Monaghan town during which electronic devices worth an estimated €50,000 were taken.
Five men have been arrested following a burglary at a shop in Monaghan town during which electronic devices worth an estimated €50,000 were taken.
Gardaí were called to the shop at Church Square on Saturday morning and found the front of it had been damaged and a large amount of stock had been taken.
A follow-up search was conducted and gardaí stopped a car on the N2 a short time later. A Garda spokesman said a sledgehammer was found in the car as well as the property stolen from the shop.
Five men, aged between 19 and 30, who were travelling in the car were then arrested. Four of them were taken to Monaghan Garda station where they were detained under the provisions of Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984. One man is being detained at Carrickmacross.
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The spokesman said a number of related searches took place in Dublin city centre and in Co Kildare on Sunday and that investigations are ongoing.


theirishtimes--2020-02-09--Security operation following report of device in Lurgan

A security operation was sparked in Lurgan following the report of a suspicious object on Sunday .
The object was @ @ @ @ @ a former school in the Cornakinnegar Road area of the Co Armagh town .
PSNI @ @ @ @ @ operation at the scene and advised members of the public to avoid the area .
@ @ @ @ @ “ Although some restrictions are in place , access to St Colman ’ s Cemetery @ @ @ @ @ not be impacted by this security operation.
” “ Whether real or hoax those behind @ @ @ @ @ master who is from a different era and is trying take Northern Ireland in the @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ I hope the community will help the police and security services catch @ @ @ @ @ terror puppeteers and put them out of business for good .
It will help the @ @ @ @

A security operation was sparked in Lurgan following the report of a suspicious object on Sunday.
The object was discovered in the grounds of a former school in the Cornakinnegar Road area of the Co Armagh town.
PSNI officers carried out a clearance operation at the scene and advised members of the public to avoid the area.
A PSNI spokesman said: “Although some restrictions are in place, access to St Colman’s Cemetery and other local amenities should not be impacted by this security operation.”
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DUP MP Carla Lockhart condemned the incident.
"Whether real or hoax those behind this are puppets to their master who is from a different era and is trying take Northern Ireland in the wrong direction," she said.
“I hope the community will help the police and security services catch the people who are the terror puppeteers and put them out of business for good. It will help the entire community.”


theirishtimes--2020-02-09--Irish cities ranked in terms of ‘friendliness’ to older people

Older people who live in areas with accessible transport , green spaces and safer streets report lower depression and loneliness levels , new research has found .
The study , which surveyed more than 10,500 over 55-year-olds living in Dublin , Cork , Galway and Limerick , found that the age-friendliness of the urban environment was regularly associated with greater wellbeing .
“ This was consistent with previous research that has reported that older adults that perceived their environments to be more age-friendly were almost four times as likely to report better quality of life than those perceiving lower age-friendliness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ report , Age-friendly Environments and Psycho-social Wellbeing : A Study of Older Urban Residents in Ireland , was written by Sarah Gibney , Mengyang Zhang and Cathal Brennan of the Department of Health ’ s healthy and positive ageing initiative .
An age-friendly environment has features such as depressed curbs , level footpaths and green spaces , encouraging people to stay active and independent .
Some cities , such as Nottingham , have introduced the initiative Take a Seat , which encourages shops and businesses to provide seats for older people .
Other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better bus shelters to make life easier for older people and people with disabilities .
Of the four cities surveyed , it found that no city was ahead of the others in all dimensions compared with the other three cities , but Cork had the lowest score in several categories , including quality of life , safety and walkability .
Dublin scored highest on quality of life .
Although the capital is often perceived as a dangerous place by those who do not live there , it actually received the highest score for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for walkability and had the highest age-friendly urban index score .
The authors calculated the age-friendly urban index by taking factors into account such as access to services , pedestrian infrastructure and safety .
They said older people living in cities with a higher score on the index were more likely to report higher quality of life overall , and a higher sense of pleasure and feeling of control over their lives .
“ These adults also had lower depressive mood scores and reported lower loneliness levels.
” This backs the findings of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who lived in places that had convenient access to daily needs , such as supermarkets , had greater physical activity levels .
And older people who lived in areas with large green spaces showed a slower decline in physical activity compared with those with fewer green areas .
“ Proximity to amenities including pubs , supermarkets and parks strongly facilitates social interaction , whereas presence of graffiti , crime and lack of close-by resources all discourage people from getting involved with others , ” the report stated .
Ireland is one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Organisation ’ s Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities , which promotes healthy active ageing and improve the quality of life for people over 60 .
However , Age Action Ireland said there was no cohesive planning for older people in evidence across government departments .
Its spokeswoman , Celine Clarke , said everyone should have a choice to grow old in their own homes and communities with the support of adequate homecare and healthcare .
“ For communities to be truly age-friendly , older residents have to be engaged in shaping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said .
“ This involves local groups , councils , businesses and residents all working together to identify and make changes in both the physical and social environments , for example transport , outdoor spaces , volunteering and employment , leisure and community services.
” She said this approach would benefit everyone , not just older people .

Galway came out on top for walkability and had the highest age-friendly urban index score. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill
Older people who live in areas with accessible transport, green spaces and safer streets report lower depression and loneliness levels, new research has found.
The study, which surveyed more than 10,500 over 55-year-olds living in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick, found that the age-friendliness of the urban environment was regularly associated with greater wellbeing.
“This was consistent with previous research that has reported that older adults that perceived their environments to be more age-friendly were almost four times as likely to report better quality of life than those perceiving lower age-friendliness levels,” it said.
The report, Age-friendly Environments and Psycho-social Wellbeing: A Study of Older Urban Residents in Ireland, was written by Sarah Gibney, Mengyang Zhang and Cathal Brennan of the Department of Health's healthy and positive ageing initiative.
READ MORE
An age-friendly environment has features such as depressed curbs, level footpaths and green spaces, encouraging people to stay active and independent. Some cities, such as Nottingham, have introduced the initiative Take a Seat, which encourages shops and businesses to provide seats for older people. Other cities are providing more outdoor benches and better bus shelters to make life easier for older people and people with disabilities.
Of the four cities surveyed, it found that no city was ahead of the others in all dimensions compared with the other three cities, but Cork had the lowest score in several categories, including quality of life, safety and walkability.
Quality of life
Dublin scored highest on quality of life. Although the capital is often perceived as a dangerous place by those who do not live there, it actually received the highest score for safety. Galway came out on top for walkability and had the highest age-friendly urban index score.
The authors calculated the age-friendly urban index by taking factors into account such as access to services, pedestrian infrastructure and safety. They said older people living in cities with a higher score on the index were more likely to report higher quality of life overall, and a higher sense of pleasure and feeling of control over their lives. “These adults also had lower depressive mood scores and reported lower loneliness levels.”
This backs the findings of other studies, which showed that older people who lived in places that had convenient access to daily needs, such as supermarkets, had greater physical activity levels. And older people who lived in areas with large green spaces showed a slower decline in physical activity compared with those with fewer green areas.
“Proximity to amenities including pubs, supermarkets and parks strongly facilitates social interaction, whereas presence of graffiti, crime and lack of close-by resources all discourage people from getting involved with others,” the report stated.
No planning
Ireland is one of 41 countries involved with the World Health Organisation’s Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities, which promotes healthy active ageing and improve the quality of life for people over 60. However, Age Action Ireland said there was no cohesive planning for older people in evidence across government departments. Its spokeswoman, Celine Clarke, said everyone should have a choice to grow old in their own homes and communities with the support of adequate homecare and healthcare.
“For communities to be truly age-friendly, older residents have to be engaged in shaping the place where they live,” she said. “This involves local groups, councils, businesses and residents all working together to identify and make changes in both the physical and social environments, for example transport, outdoor spaces, volunteering and employment, leisure and community services.”
She said this approach would benefit everyone, not just older people.


theirishtimes--2020-02-09--Met Éireann issues two-day snow and ice alert and orange wind warning

Parts of Ireland are forecast to wake up to snow on Monday , with widespread wintry showers forecast to fall overnight .
Met Éireann has issued a two-day status yellow snow and ice warning , which comes into effect at midnight with Storm Ciara set to sweep over the country .
An additional status orange wind warning for counties Donegal , Galway , Leitrim , Mayo , Sligo , Clare and Kerry will be in effect from 6am to 8pm on Monday and a status yellow wind warning is in place for the rest of the country .
Met Éireann @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high seas would create “ a significant risk of coastal flooding ” .
Storm Ciara is forecast to bring strong westerly winds to coastal areas on Monday with mean speeds of 65km/h to 80km/h expected as well as gusts of up to 130km/h .
Met Éireann forecaster Linda Hughes said some travel disruption should be expected as a result of the weather .
“ People could be waking tomorrow morning to some snowfall lying on the ground , ” she said .
“ There will be falls of sleet and snow , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the west and the north , and especially on the mountains and hills.
” Temperatures were expected to fall to freezing overnight and were not forecast to rise much higher than three degrees on Monday .
“ It will be a very cold day and feeling even colder because of the strong westerly winds , ” Ms Hughes added .
The Road Safety Authority ( RSA ) advised road users to prepare for cold weather conditions , with motorists advised to clear windows and mirrors before setting out on journeys .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issued a status yellow warning for snow and wind which comes into effect at midnight and runs until midnight on Tuesday .
It said heavy snow and strong winds would lead to travel disruption , especially along routes on higher ground .
There was also a possibility of some vehicles and passengers on certain routes being left stranded , along with potential delays or cancellations to rail and air travel , and power cuts .
In Britain , Storm Ciara caused widespread flooding and brought winds of more than 140km/h over the weekend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were cancelled and train companies urged passengers not to travel .
Drivers faced treacherous conditions with floodwater , fallen trees and other debris closing roads .
The sporting programme was also disrupted , with horse racing , rugby union , rugby league and football fixtures , including the Premier League match between Manchester City and West Ham in Manchester , postponed on Sunday .
Footage posted on social media showed a wall of the Bridge House Guest House and Sonia ’ s Bistro building collapsing into the fast-flowing River Teviot in Hawick , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel disruption to flights and sailings in and out of Ireland .
Aer Lingus advised travellers to check the status of their flight before departing for the airport , while Irish Ferries warned passengers there would be some disruption to sailings .
The National Parks and Wildlife Service closed a number of parks around the country on Sunday and advised the public to not visit any national monuments or nature reserves while the warning is in place .
The bad weather forced the organisers of the Galway 2020 City of Culture to cancel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was working to restore power to 14,000 homes and businesses on Sunday .
Donegal County Council warned the public to be vigilant for falling trees and debris .
“ Heavy rain may overwhelm drains and gullies leading to surface flooding and property owners and occupiers are being asked to check drains and gullies for potential blockages , ” a spokesman added .
The Irish Coast Guard has cautioned people in coastal areas to “ stay back , stay high and stay dry ” .

Parts of Ireland are forecast to wake up to snow on Monday, with widespread wintry showers forecast to fall overnight.
Met Éireann has issued a two-day status yellow snow and ice warning, which comes into effect at midnight with Storm Ciara set to sweep over the country.
An additional status orange wind warning for counties Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo, Clare and Kerry will be in effect from 6am to 8pm on Monday and a status yellow wind warning is in place for the rest of the country.
Met Éireann said a combination of spring tides and high seas would create “a significant risk of coastal flooding”.
READ MORE
Storm Ciara is forecast to bring strong westerly winds to coastal areas on Monday with mean speeds of 65km/h to 80km/h expected as well as gusts of up to 130km/h.
Met Éireann forecaster Linda Hughes said some travel disruption should be expected as a result of the weather.
“People could be waking tomorrow morning to some snowfall lying on the ground,” she said. “There will be falls of sleet and snow, and some snow accumulations as well, mainly in the west and the north, and especially on the mountains and hills.”
Freezing
Temperatures were expected to fall to freezing overnight and were not forecast to rise much higher than three degrees on Monday.
“It will be a very cold day and feeling even colder because of the strong westerly winds,” Ms Hughes added.
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) advised road users to prepare for cold weather conditions, with motorists advised to clear windows and mirrors before setting out on journeys.
In the North, the Met Office has issued a status yellow warning for snow and wind which comes into effect at midnight and runs until midnight on Tuesday.
It said heavy snow and strong winds would lead to travel disruption, especially along routes on higher ground. There was also a possibility of some vehicles and passengers on certain routes being left stranded, along with potential delays or cancellations to rail and air travel, and power cuts.
In Britain, Storm Ciara caused widespread flooding and brought winds of more than 140km/h over the weekend.
Dozens of domestic and international flights were cancelled and train companies urged passengers not to travel. Drivers faced treacherous conditions with floodwater, fallen trees and other debris closing roads.
The sporting programme was also disrupted, with horse racing, rugby union, rugby league and football fixtures, including the Premier League match between Manchester City and West Ham in Manchester, postponed on Sunday.
Footage posted on social media showed a wall of the Bridge House Guest House and Sonia’s Bistro building collapsing into the fast-flowing River Teviot in Hawick, Scotland.
Members of Ennis fire brigade free a car from under a tree felled by Storm Ciara at Friars Walk, Ennis on Sunday morning. Photograpoh by Eamon Ward
Travel disruption
Storm Ciara has caused some travel disruption to flights and sailings in and out of Ireland. Aer Lingus advised travellers to check the status of their flight before departing for the airport, while Irish Ferries warned passengers there would be some disruption to sailings.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service closed a number of parks around the country on Sunday and advised the public to not visit any national monuments or nature reserves while the warning is in place. The bad weather forced the organisers of the Galway 2020 City of Culture to cancel the opening ceremony.
ESB Networks said it was working to restore power to 14,000 homes and businesses on Sunday.
Donegal County Council warned the public to be vigilant for falling trees and debris.
“Heavy rain may overwhelm drains and gullies leading to surface flooding and property owners and occupiers are being asked to check drains and gullies for potential blockages,” a spokesman added.
The Irish Coast Guard has cautioned people in coastal areas to “stay back, stay high and stay dry”.


theirishtimes--2020-02-08--Cocaine worth more than €250,000 seized in Co Kildare

A quantity of cocaine estimated to be worth €252,000 has been seized by gardaí in Co Kildare .
The cannabis @ @ @ @ @ of a house in Kildangan on Thursday afternoon .
Gardaí also seized equipment , including @ @ @ @ @ scales and bagging and packing machines .
No people have been arrested in connection with @ @ @ @ @ part of an ongoing investigation into the sale and supply of controlled drugs in Kildare @

Gardaí said investigations are ongoing and no arrests have been made
A quantity of cocaine estimated to be worth €252,000 has been seized by gardaí in Co Kildare.
The cannabis was discovered during the search of a house in Kildangan on Thursday afternoon. Gardaí also seized equipment, including a large cocaine press, scales and bagging and packing machines.
No people have been arrested in connection with the search, which was part of an ongoing investigation into the sale and supply of controlled drugs in Kildare.
Gardaí said investigations are ongoing.


theirishtimes--2020-02-08--RTÉ broadcaster Keelin Shanley dies aged 51

RTÉ broadcaster Keelin Shanley has died aged 51 following an illness .
The award-winning journalist “ had been dealing with cancer for some time ” , RTÉ said in a statement .
“ With over 20 years ’ experience as a journalist and broadcaster , Keelin was the much-loved and respected presenter of RTÉ ’ s Six One News , ” it said .
Jon Williams , managing director of RTÉ News and Current Affairs paid tribute to Shanley : “ Keelin was the best of us – and we are heartbroken .
From Prime Time Investigates to Morning Edition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ News , there wasn ’ t a corner of RTÉ News and Current Affairs untouched by Keelin ’ s fearless , generous , and passionate journalism .
“ For Keelin , the story was never about her – always about others .
Her legacy of over 20 years ’ journalism with RTÉ saw her help tell the stories of so many often marginalised .
She strove to inform , probe and encourage .
Always inquisitive , interested , thoughtful and kind .
The fact that she presented our flagship Six One News while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and so typical of Keelin ’ s determination to live life to the full .
“ Our hearts go out to Conor , Lucy and Ben and her wider family .
We are all poorer for her loss.
” Shanley grew up in Monkstown in Dublin .
She graduated from Trinity College with a degree in biochemistry .
She began working with RTÉ in the late 1990s , presenting a number of science and technology programmes .
She later joined Prime Time and more recently presented Morning Edition , The Consumer Show , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ RTÉ One .
She also worked as a radio presenter across several programmes on RTÉ Radio 1 : Morning Ireland ; News at One ; Today with Sean O ’ Rourke ; and Late Debate .
In a statement on Saturday , President Michael D Higgins paid tribute to the late broadcaster : “ People all over Ireland will have been greatly saddened by the news of the death of Keelin Shanley , broadcaster and award-winning journalist .
“ Driven by a strong commitment to social justice , she brought great professionalism and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Sabina and I send our deepest condolences to her husband Conor , their children Lucy and Ben , her wider family and her wide circle of friends.
” Dee Forbes , RTÉ director general , said : “ Everybody at RTÉ is deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague and friend Keelin Shanley .
A passionate and dedicated public service journalist , Keelin had an expertise that challenged and probed as well as an ease that endeared her to all .
“ Most recently , Keelin co-presented the Six One News @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Keelin was incredibly popular with all her colleagues .
But our loss is nothing compared to that of her much-loved family .
My sincere sympathies go to Conor , Lucy , and Ben , to Keelin ’ s extended family , and to her wide circle of friends.
” Irish secretary of the National Union of Journalists , Séamus Dooley , said Shanley ’ s “ untimely death is a great loss firstly to her family , but also to public service broadcasting .
Keelin was authoritative and insightful.
” He said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news , a respect for facts and an ability as an interviewer to get to the nub of a story .
“ She loved big news days and was always conscious of the importance of the media in reporting politics and public affairs .
”

RTÉ broadcaster Keelin Shanley has died aged 51 following an illness.
The award-winning journalist “had been dealing with cancer for some time”, RTÉ said in a statement. “With over 20 years’ experience as a journalist and broadcaster, Keelin was the much-loved and respected presenter of RTÉ’s Six One News,” it said.
Jon Williams, managing director of RTÉ News and Current Affairs paid tribute to Shanley: " Keelin was the best of us – and we are heartbroken. From Prime Time Investigates to Morning Edition, Morning Ireland to the Six One News, there wasn't a corner of RTÉ News and Current Affairs untouched by Keelin's fearless, generous, and passionate journalism.
The death has been announced of RTÉ broadcaster Keelin Shanley following an illness. She passed away peacefully this afternoon, aged 51 https://t.co/OvWX3OBOhl — RTÉ News (@rtenews) February 8, 2020
“For Keelin, the story was never about her – always about others. Her legacy of over 20 years’ journalism with RTÉ saw her help tell the stories of so many often marginalised. She strove to inform, probe and encourage. Always inquisitive, interested, thoughtful and kind. The fact that she presented our flagship Six One News while dealing with cancer is inspirational in itself and so typical of Keelin’s determination to live life to the full.
READ MORE
“Our hearts go out to Conor, Lucy and Ben and her wider family. We are all poorer for her loss.”
Shanley grew up in Monkstown in Dublin. She graduated from Trinity College with a degree in biochemistry. She began working with RTÉ in the late 1990s, presenting a number of science and technology programmes.
She later joined Prime Time and more recently presented Morning Edition, The Consumer Show, Crimecall and The Irish Book Awards on RTÉ One. She also worked as a radio presenter across several programmes on RTÉ Radio 1: Morning Ireland; News at One; Today with Sean O’Rourke; and Late Debate.
‘Passionate and dedicated’
In a statement on Saturday, President Michael D Higgins paid tribute to the late broadcaster: “People all over Ireland will have been greatly saddened by the news of the death of Keelin Shanley, broadcaster and award-winning journalist.
“Driven by a strong commitment to social justice, she brought great professionalism and dedication to her work as a journalist. Sabina and I send our deepest condolences to her husband Conor, their children Lucy and Ben, her wider family and her wide circle of friends.”
Dee Forbes, RTÉ director general, said: “Everybody at RTÉ is deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague and friend Keelin Shanley. A passionate and dedicated public service journalist, Keelin had an expertise that challenged and probed as well as an ease that endeared her to all.
“Most recently, Keelin co-presented the Six One News, watched by huge audiences daily. Keelin was incredibly popular with all her colleagues. But our loss is nothing compared to that of her much-loved family. My sincere sympathies go to Conor, Lucy, and Ben, to Keelin’s extended family, and to her wide circle of friends.”
Irish secretary of the National Union of Journalists, Séamus Dooley, said Shanley’s “untimely death is a great loss firstly to her family, but also to public service broadcasting. Keelin was authoritative and insightful.”
He said: “She had a real passion for news, a respect for facts and an ability as an interviewer to get to the nub of a story.
“She loved big news days and was always conscious of the importance of the media in reporting politics and public affairs.”


theirishtimes--2020-02-08--Simonetta Nasi, mother of attack victim Guido, dies

The mother of an Italian man who was left paraplegic after an unprovoked bottle attack in a Dublin park more than 20 years ago has died , a family friend has said .
Simonetta Nasi , whose son Guido was left paralysed and in need of full time care after the attack at Fairview Park in 1999 , had been ill for a number of years and passed away at her home in Turin on Friday .
Bernadette Kelly , who became close with the Nasi family after gardaí asked her to act as a translator for Simonetta , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday .
“ She told me that she only had a few days left , ” Ms Kelly told The Irish Times .
“ I found it very difficult , because ever since Guido was attacked we have been in constant contact .
“ But she was reassuring me , that I wasn ’ t to be sad about it because she was glad to go , she couldn ’ t take anymore .
“ She said not to worry , that she had everything sorted out for Guido .
She had everything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him and to have guardians for him.
” After falling ill two years ago , Simonetta arranged for Mr Nasi to be cared for at a nursing home , Ms Kelly said .
The Dublin-based grandmother said she will continue to keep in contact with Mr Nasi , with whom she communicates through his carer on the telephone .
Ms Kelly said the 38-year-old has written an autobiography – translated from Italian as The Fighter – which has been published in his native Italy , and which Mr Nasi wants to see published @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raise funds through the sale of the book here for a foundation to care for young people with a brain injury , being set up in the name of Pádraig Schäler .
Mr Schäler , a young Irish cyclist , suffered a catastrophic brain injury when he was involved in a serious road accident in Cape Cod in the US seven years ago .
“ Guido always wanted to live in Ireland , ” said Ms Kelly .
“ But it wasn ’ t possible .
Simonetta said she couldn ’ t organise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could go to .
So he wants to raise funds for this foundation .
“ He is trying to pay back a bit to Ireland , for what Ireland did for him.
” Mr Nasi and his mother were welcomed at Áras an Uachtaráin last year by President Michael D Higgins as the embodiment of “ forgiveness and courage ” .
Addressing a reception for the Irish Tourist Assistance Service , Mr Higgins said Mr Nasi ’ s presence was a marker of “ resilience and of hope and belief in the human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 31-year-old who smashed a beer bottle over Mr Nasi ’ s head , was sentenced to eight-and-a-half years in prison .
Mr Nasi told the court at the time his experience was “ a nightmare from which I try to wake myself ” .

The mother of an Italian man who was left paraplegic after an unprovoked bottle attack in a Dublin park more than 20 years ago has died, a family friend has said.
Simonetta Nasi, whose son Guido was left paralysed and in need of full time care after the attack at Fairview Park in 1999, had been ill for a number of years and passed away at her home in Turin on Friday.
Bernadette Kelly, who became close with the Nasi family after gardaí asked her to act as a translator for Simonetta, said she spoke with her by telephone on Sunday.
“She told me that she only had a few days left,” Ms Kelly told The Irish Times.
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“I found it very difficult, because ever since Guido was attacked we have been in constant contact.
“But she was reassuring me, that I wasn’t to be sad about it because she was glad to go, she couldn’t take anymore.
“She said not to worry, that she had everything sorted out for Guido. She had everything worked out for people to care for him and to have guardians for him.”
After falling ill two years ago, Simonetta arranged for Mr Nasi to be cared for at a nursing home, Ms Kelly said.
The Dublin-based grandmother said she will continue to keep in contact with Mr Nasi, with whom she communicates through his carer on the telephone.
Ms Kelly said the 38-year-old has written an autobiography – translated from Italian as The Fighter – which has been published in his native Italy, and which Mr Nasi wants to see published in Ireland.
He is hoping to raise funds through the sale of the book here for a foundation to care for young people with a brain injury, being set up in the name of Pádraig Schäler.
Mr Schäler, a young Irish cyclist, suffered a catastrophic brain injury when he was involved in a serious road accident in Cape Cod in the US seven years ago.
“Guido always wanted to live in Ireland,” said Ms Kelly.
“ But it wasn’t possible. Simonetta said she couldn’t organise it, there was nowhere here he could go to. So he wants to raise funds for this foundation.
“He is trying to pay back a bit to Ireland, for what Ireland did for him.”
Mr Nasi and his mother were welcomed at Áras an Uachtaráin last year by President Michael D Higgins as the embodiment of "forgiveness and courage".
Addressing a reception for the Irish Tourist Assistance Service, Mr Higgins said Mr Nasi's presence was a marker of "resilience and of hope and belief in the human spirit".
James Osborne, the 31-year-old who smashed a beer bottle over Mr Nasi's head, was sentenced to eight-and-a-half years in prison. Mr Nasi told the court at the time his experience was "a nightmare from which I try to wake myself".


theirishtimes--2020-02-08--Witnesses sought following two shootings in Longford

Gardaí are looking for witnesses to separate shooting s which happened at a property in Longford during the week .
@ @ @ @ @ a property in Corboy , Edgeworthstown , at 10.30pm on February 4th and one shot @ @ @ @ @ address at 12.10pm on February 7th .
No injuries were reported in either incident .
@ @ @ @ @ roads users with dash cam footage and anyone with information and who may have been @ @ @ @ @ surrounding area on the evening of the 4th between 10-11pm and on the afternoon of @ @ @ @ @ contact Grandard Garda Station at 043 668 7667 , the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 @ @ @ @ @ Garda station .
Gardaí are particularly interested in speaking with the driver and occupants of @ @ @ @ @ which was seen in the area at the time of the incidents .

Gardaí in Granard are asking roads users with dash cam footage to come forward.
Gardaí are looking for witnesses to separate shooting s which happened at a property in Longford during the week.
Two shots were fired at a property in Corboy, Edgeworthstown, at 10.30pm on February 4th and one shot was fired at the same address at 12.10pm on February 7th. No injuries were reported in either incident.
Gardaí in Granard are asking roads users with dash cam footage and anyone with information and who may have been in the Corboy area or surrounding area on the evening of the 4th between 10-11pm and on the afternoon of the 7th between 12-1pm to contact Grandard Garda Station at 043 668 7667, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
Gardaí are particularly interested in speaking with the driver and occupants of a white, saloon-type car which was seen in the area at the time of the incidents.


theirishtimes--2020-02-08--Man (33) charged with murder following death of man in Kilkenny

A 33-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the murder of Liam Edward O ’ Sullivan .
Garrett Smith , 6 St Fiacc ’ s Terrace , Graigcullen , Co Carlow is charged with the murder of Mr O ’ Sullivan in Kilkenny city on Thursday .
The father-of-five was pronounced dead on Thursday night at St Luke ’ s Hospital , Kilkenny , following an incident in the High Hayes Terrace area of the city earlier that day .
Mr Smith appeared in court dressed in a navy tracksuit , a grey jumper and runners .
Det Garda @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he charged the accused at 1.25am on Saturday at Kilkenny Garda station .
Det O ’ Brien said the accused made no reply after caution .
Insp Anthony Farrell told the court that the matter of bail was for the High Court .
Judge Geraldine Carthy remanded the defendant in custody , to appear via video link from Cloverhill Prison in Dublin , before Kilkenny District Court on Tuesday next .
Solicitor Joe Farrell applied for legal aid in the case and handed in a statement of means on behalf of his client @ @ @ @ @ @ @ client had received medical attention while in custody and asked that it be noted that the defendant receive further medical attention if needed .

Gardaí and forensic officers at the scene on High Hayes Terrace, near the Castlecomer Road and John’s Green in Kilkenny, where Liam Edward O’Sullivan was fatally injured. Photograph: Dylan Vaughan
A 33-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the murder of Liam Edward O’Sullivan.
Garrett Smith, 6 St Fiacc’s Terrace, Graigcullen, Co Carlow is charged with the murder of Mr O’Sullivan in Kilkenny city on Thursday.
The father-of-five was pronounced dead on Thursday night at St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny, following an incident in the High Hayes Terrace area of the city earlier that day.
Mr Smith appeared in court dressed in a navy tracksuit, a grey jumper and runners.
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Det Garda James O’Brien gave evidence that he charged the accused at 1.25am on Saturday at Kilkenny Garda station. Det O’Brien said the accused made no reply after caution.
Insp Anthony Farrell told the court that the matter of bail was for the High Court.
Judge Geraldine Carthy remanded the defendant in custody, to appear via video link from Cloverhill Prison in Dublin, before Kilkenny District Court on Tuesday next.
Solicitor Joe Farrell applied for legal aid in the case and handed in a statement of means on behalf of his client. Mr Farrell also noted that his client had received medical attention while in custody and asked that it be noted that the defendant receive further medical attention if needed.


theirishtimes--2020-02-08--New year plant hunt gives young, keen, diligent botanists adrenaline spike

Twitchers are a more intent species , as it were , than mere birdwatchers , but botanists seem to lack their ultimate compulsion .
This may be just as well , since a rare plant , ringed suddenly by too many boots , has no means of flying away .
Today ’ s botanists , however , increasingly young , keen and anoraked , do spike one occasion with adrenaline : the new year plant hunt on January 1st .
How many flowering plants could you list in three hours of scouring the local ground ?
Even more competitively , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Hunt ?
The really keen , it seems , have it photographed by torchlight shortly after midnight .
On New Year ’ s Day 2019 , for example , one Ger Collard from Tralee , Co Kerry , submitted pictures of five plants before 12.30 am .
Collard is a member of the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland ( BSBI ) .
Its acronym was adjusted in 2013 from its claim to the whole “ British Isles , ” such had been the historical weight of visiting experts from next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ colonial claim to the Burren .
But Ireland ’ s sterling fieldwork for a massive new flora secured us our rightful place Its latest plant hunt , the ninth , involved 1,714 people , from Shetland to Guernsey , Donegal to Norfolk , west Cork to Kent .
Often searching in family groups , they recorded more species in bloom – 615 – than ever before .
The highest totals , predictably , were from the south and west of both islands .
Swanage , on the UK south coast , had the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place came 85 species at Ballycullane , Co Wexford , from experienced Irish recorder Paul Green .
The long-term objective of the hunt is to see how the wildflowers of these islands are responding to changes in weather patterns and climate .
In the survey ’ s brief record , the latest hunt was pretty average .
“ We can ’ t yet prove that more species are flowering in mid-winter , ” says Dr Kevin Walker , the BSBI ’ s chief scientist .
But the hunt has already shown that , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of warmer temperatures and fewer frosts .
On January 25th , a Kerry reader sent Eye on Nature a cheering photograph of lesser celandines in flower , a week or two ahead of normal schedule .
But only 24 per cent of the BSBI ’ s new year flowers were springtime specialists such as celandine and primrose , so there was “ no indication of an early spring ” .
Indeed , more than half were wayside autumn stragglers such as yarrow , ragwort and hogweed .
And the leading species , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , commonly offer mid-winter blooms .
The ready use of common wildflower names , where appropriate , alongside the Latin binomials of Linnaeus , marks the modern informality of botany .
It ’ s true that in papers at Ireland ’ s spring conference in the National Botanic Gardens , something such as festuca grasses may be salted with Latin names – that ’ s science .
But , more and more , diligent amateurs are joining surveys with professionals , enlivening online websites and blogs , and painlessly absorbing the weighty fistful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland even has a team known at the Rough Crew , led by Dr Rory Hodd , “ ecologist , botanist and montivagant , with a passion for liverworts , mosses and mountains ” .
A montivagant is , indeed , a wanderer over hills and mountains , and Hodd inspires an adventurous troupe of young followers – typically three women and five men – to seek out the plants of rain-soaked ledges on the high , rocky scarps and ravines of the west .
Much of this is pursued on the mountains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rocks themselves are of infinite variety and interest .
That is , if one could master enough geology to tell them apart and fit their shapes and stories into the landscape .
An engaging encouragement has been published by Mayo County Council in Reading the Rocks ( €15 in local bookshops ) .
A geological audit produced an impressive choice of more than 100 significant sites in Mayo , some of international note , such as the metamorphic rocks of the Mullet Peninsula , 1.75 billion years old .
From these , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ronan Hennessy and Prof Martin Feely selected 21 sites to show the great range of Mayo ’ s geological story .
Many are strikingly photogenic , such as the great sea stack of Dun Briste at the tip of Downpatrick Head .
And “ there is never the necessity ” , the publisher warns , “ to hammer , dig or collect samples ” .
Carrowniskey Strand , south of Louisburgh , is well featured in the book .
It was my own early hunting ground for huge and beautiful pebbles , glacially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Reading the Rocks would have helped me with their story before the great storms that swept so much of them away .
A stubborn obstacle to enjoying books about geology is their unchippable sediment of science-speak .
This one has a generous glossary , usefully unpacking the information condensed into single terms .
But arriving at , say , “ ophiotic melange ” , I think I ’ d still rather scramble through the awns , bracts , corymbs and corollas of botany .

Twitchers are a more intent species, as it were, than mere birdwatchers, but botanists seem to lack their ultimate compulsion. This may be just as well, since a rare plant, ringed suddenly by too many boots, has no means of flying away.
Today’s botanists, however, increasingly young, keen and anoraked, do spike one occasion with adrenaline: the new year plant hunt on January 1st. How many flowering plants could you list in three hours of scouring the local ground?
Even more competitively, who is to claim the First Flower of the Hunt? The really keen, it seems, have it photographed by torchlight shortly after midnight. On New Year’s Day 2019, for example, one Ger Collard from Tralee, Co Kerry, submitted pictures of five plants before 12.30 am.
Collard is a member of the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland (BSBI). Its acronym was adjusted in 2013 from its claim to the whole “British Isles,” such had been the historical weight of visiting experts from next door. Some would have laid a colonial claim to the Burren. But Ireland’s sterling fieldwork for a massive new flora secured us our rightful place
READ MORE
Its latest plant hunt, the ninth, involved 1,714 people, from Shetland to Guernsey, Donegal to Norfolk, west Cork to Kent. Often searching in family groups, they recorded more species in bloom – 615 – than ever before.
The highest totals, predictably, were from the south and west of both islands. Swanage, on the UK south coast, had the longest list of 115. In fourth place came 85 species at Ballycullane, Co Wexford, from experienced Irish recorder Paul Green.
The long-term objective of the hunt is to see how the wildflowers of these islands are responding to changes in weather patterns and climate. In the survey’s brief record, the latest hunt was pretty average. “We can’t yet prove that more species are flowering in mid-winter,” says Dr Kevin Walker, the BSBI’s chief scientist. But the hunt has already shown that, in milder winters, more plants flower because of warmer temperatures and fewer frosts.
On January 25th, a Kerry reader sent Eye on Nature a cheering photograph of lesser celandines in flower, a week or two ahead of normal schedule. But only 24 per cent of the BSBI’s new year flowers were springtime specialists such as celandine and primrose, so there was “no indication of an early spring”.
Indeed, more than half were wayside autumn stragglers such as yarrow, ragwort and hogweed. And the leading species, topped by daisy, groundsel and dandelion, commonly offer mid-winter blooms.
The ready use of common wildflower names, where appropriate, alongside the Latin binomials of Linnaeus, marks the modern informality of botany. It’s true that in papers at Ireland’s spring conference in the National Botanic Gardens, something such as festuca grasses may be salted with Latin names – that’s science. But, more and more, diligent amateurs are joining surveys with professionals, enlivening online websites and blogs, and painlessly absorbing the weighty fistful of Webb’s Irish Flora.
Ireland even has a team known at the Rough Crew, led by Dr Rory Hodd, "ecologist, botanist and montivagant, with a passion for liverworts, mosses and mountains". A montivagant is, indeed, a wanderer over hills and mountains, and Hodd inspires an adventurous troupe of young followers – typically three women and five men – to seek out the plants of rain-soaked ledges on the high, rocky scarps and ravines of the west.
Much of this is pursued on the mountains and islands of Co Mayo, where the rocks themselves are of infinite variety and interest. That is, if one could master enough geology to tell them apart and fit their shapes and stories into the landscape.
An engaging encouragement has been published by Mayo County Council in Reading the Rocks (€15 in local bookshops). A geological audit produced an impressive choice of more than 100 significant sites in Mayo, some of international note, such as the metamorphic rocks of the Mullet Peninsula, 1.75 billion years old.
From these, two geologists at NUI Galway, Dr Ronan Hennessy and Prof Martin Feely selected 21 sites to show the great range of Mayo’s geological story. Many are strikingly photogenic, such as the great sea stack of Dun Briste at the tip of Downpatrick Head. And “there is never the necessity”, the publisher warns, “to hammer, dig or collect samples”.
Carrowniskey Strand, south of Louisburgh, is well featured in the book. It was my own early hunting ground for huge and beautiful pebbles, glacially gathered and rounded in the sea, and Reading the Rocks would have helped me with their story before the great storms that swept so much of them away.
A stubborn obstacle to enjoying books about geology is their unchippable sediment of science-speak. This one has a generous glossary, usefully unpacking the information condensed into single terms. But arriving at, say, “ophiotic melange”, I think I’d still rather scramble through the awns, bracts, corymbs and corollas of botany.


theirishtimes--2020-02-08--What causes hoar frost? Readers’ nature queries and observations

I came across this hoar frost in Glenisken Wood .
What causes the ice or frost to grow like hairs ?
Donagh Kilworth , Co Cork While walking near the Bannagh river on January 18th I found lots of hair ice .
I understand that it ’ s associated with the fungus , Exidiopsis effusa .
Fionnbarr Cross , Bannagh Bed , Co Fermanagh Hair ice forms on moist , rotting wood from broadleaf trees when temperatures are slightly under zero degrees and the air is humid .
The hairs can maintain their shape for hours and sometimes days due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the wood .
The fungus Exidiopsis effusa is associated with its formation .
I saw this starfish on Glassillaun beach .
It ’ s much bigger than the usual ones I see on the beach .
Sibéal Aspell , Renvyle , Co Galway We ’ ve had visits from a pair of ring-necked or rose-necked parakeets .
Sean Barrett and Proinsias Mac an Bheatha , Fairview Dublin 3 The National Biodiversity Data Centre lists them as invasive aliens .
They have become naturalised in London and the southeast of England .
These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could have migrated here with or without help .
After the last storm , on a piece of rope on the strand , I found a racoon oyster , Dendostrea frons , from the Gulf coast of North America and the Caribbean .
Sabine Springer , Kinvara , Co Galway Michael Allen took this photo of an otter eating a lamprey on the Suir near Clonmel .
How common are lampreys in Irish rivers ?
Niamh Mernagh , Marino , Dublin 3 There are three species of lamprey in Irish rivers : sea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sea lampreys migrate from the sea to their spawning grounds in the rivers .
This is a sea lamprey .
Ethna Viney welcomes observations and photographs at Thallabawn , Louisburgh , Co Mayo , F28 F978 , or by email at viney @ anu.ie .
Include a postal address .

I came across this hoar frost in Glenisken Wood. What causes the ice or frost to grow like hairs? Donagh Kilworth, Co Cork
While walking near the Bannagh river on January 18th I found lots of hair ice. I understand that it's associated with the fungus, Exidiopsis effusa.
Fionnbarr Cross, Bannagh Bed, Co Fermanagh
Hair ice forms on moist, rotting wood from broadleaf trees when temperatures are slightly under zero degrees and the air is humid. The hairs can maintain their shape for hours and sometimes days due to the presence of tannin and lignum from the wood. The fungus Exidiopsis effusa is associated with its formation.
Starfish on Glassillaun beach
I saw this starfish on Glassillaun beach. It's much bigger than the usual ones I see on the beach. Sibéal Aspell, Renvyle, Co Galway
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Parakeet visiting a garden in Fairview
We've had visits from a pair of ring-necked or rose-necked parakeets.
Sean Barrett and Proinsias Mac an Bheatha, Fairview Dublin 3
The National Biodiversity Data Centre lists them as invasive aliens. They have become naturalised in London and the southeast of England. These could be escapees from confinement, or could have migrated here with or without help.
Racoon oyster
After the last storm, on a piece of rope on the strand, I found a racoon oyster, Dendostrea frons, from the Gulf coast of North America and the Caribbean.
Sabine Springer, Kinvara, Co Galway
Michael Allen took this photo of an otter eating a lamprey on the Suir near Clonmel. Photograph first appeared on the Facebook site of Clonmel Memories.
Michael Allen took this photo of an otter eating a lamprey on the Suir near Clonmel. How common are lampreys in Irish rivers?
Niamh Mernagh, Marino, Dublin 3
There are three species of lamprey in Irish rivers: sea, river and brook. River and sea lampreys migrate from the sea to their spawning grounds in the rivers. This is a sea lamprey.
[ viney@anu.ie ]