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Dublin asylum seekers moved from Mount Street tents

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Asylum seekers who had been living in tents in central Dublin have been relocated to two designated accommodation sites by the Irish government. The makeshift campsite outside the International Protection Office on Mount Street had been in place for several months before authorities undertook a joint agency operation to ensure the safe movement of the asylum seekers to Citywest and Crooksling tented accommodations in County Dublin.

The government emphasized that the new sites offer robust, weather-proof tents with adequate facilities such as showers, toilets, indoor areas for food provision, charging stations, and 24-hour security. Despite initial reluctance from some asylum seekers regarding the suitability of the Crooksling site, authorities assured that it meets their needs and provides similar support as other locations.

Dublin City Council cleaned the streets following the relocation operation. Noel Wardick, CEO of Dublin City Co-operative, described the previous conditions on Mount Street as “absolutely appalling” and criticized the lack of political will to address asylum seekers’ accommodation issues. He emphasized the necessity for the state to fulfill its legal obligation to provide proper accommodation to prevent similar situations in the future.

The relocation process involved clearing the tents from Mount Street, with Dublin City Council workers restoring the area while asylum seekers were transported to Crooksling. This was the second attempt in recent months to find alternative accommodation for those living on Mount Street.

In response to concerns about the UK’s deportation plan to Rwanda potentially increasing refugee numbers in Ireland, the government approved drafting new legislation to designate the UK as a “safe country” for asylum seekers. This move follows assertions by Justice Minister Helen McEntee regarding the high percentage of recent asylum claims from individuals entering via Northern Ireland.

Currently, over 1,400 asylum applicants in Ireland lack accommodation, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by refugees. One asylum seeker from India, who arrived in Ireland via Northern Ireland, explained his departure from the UK due to post-Brexit immigration rules.

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Former Irish PM John Bruton dies after long illness

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Former Taoiseach John Bruton, a prominent figure in Irish politics known for his contributions to the Northern Ireland peace process, has passed away at the age of 76 after battling illness. His family confirmed his death, expressing their sorrow and remembering him as a devoted husband, father, and patriot.

Bruton served as Taoiseach from 1994 to 1997 and played a significant role in advancing peace in Northern Ireland alongside UK Prime Minister John Major. Together, they launched the Anglo-Irish Framework Document in 1995, a pivotal moment in the peace process.

John Major paid tribute to Bruton, highlighting his dedication to peace and describing him as a formidable servant of Ireland. He emphasized Bruton’s commitment to prioritizing peace over political interests during challenging times.

Born in Dublin in 1947, Bruton began his political career in 1969 when he was elected to represent Meath in the Irish Parliament. During his tenure as Taoiseach, he led a coalition government and notably oversaw a referendum leading to the legalization of divorce in Ireland.

Current Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkar praised Bruton as a “doer and a philosopher,” emphasizing his efforts to bridge divides and reach out to the unionist community. President Michael D Higgins also honored Bruton’s energy and dedication to politics, particularly his contributions to the Northern Ireland peace process.

Bertie Ahern, Bruton’s successor as Taoiseach, remembered him as a gentleman and a genuine advocate for the people. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola expressed deep sadness at his passing, echoing sentiments of loss across political spheres.

In Northern Ireland, political figures including First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly extended condolences to Bruton’s family. Assembly Speaker Edwin Poots and Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris also expressed sympathy, acknowledging Bruton’s positive impact on Anglo-Irish relations and his role in laying the groundwork for the Good Friday Agreement.

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N Ireland overturns laws on same sex marriage and abortion

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The United Kingdom region of Northern Ireland has overturned its laws on same sex marriage and abortion.

In the region, abortion is no longer crime, and same sex marriages, unlike before, can be done legally hereafter.

The removal of the laws has come as a result of the decades-old protest of progressive groups against the government.

Most progressive groups have welcomed the move. Many have gathered in the streets of the country to celebrate their victory over the conservative elements of the region, which has been campaigning against the removal of the laws for decades.

As per a report, the first same sex marriage of the region is going to take place in February next year. The identity of the couple has not been publicised yet.

Some has called this the rebirth of Northern Ireland.

The region is very conservative compared to the rest of the United Kingdom. Not many have expected that this would happen to this region.


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