Discussions around skills, taxes and access to European Union markets are common when it comes to attracting large investors to Ireland. But the more mundane things are also important. Cliff Taylor writes that two of Ireland’s hottest issues are electricity and water.
“Already, the strain on the power grid is turning some parts of the East Coast off limits to large new energy-intensive projects, such as major manufacturers and data centers, where special considerations apply. Water supply is also causing problems and will become a major constraint in the greater Dublin area over the next five years or so unless action is taken.
“With a general election looming, there is a risk that controversial infrastructure projects, most of them, will be postponed until the end of this year. And even more time will be lost.”
Ambitious plans for transport in Dublin
If no one is talking about the problems surrounding power and water in Dublin, everyone seems to be talking about the upcoming transport changes in the city centre. The Dublin City Center Transport Plan, which was submitted to councilors on Wednesday, aims to stop motorists from driving ‘through’ rather than ‘towards’ the city. According to Dublin City Council, two out of three cars currently on the city’s roads are not traveling to the city centre.
The plan aims to deter such motorized traffic by restricting parts of the north and south piers to public transport only and introducing restrictions at a series of civic plazas and traffic turning points. . Dublin editor Olivia Kelly has been reporting on the matter all week, saying: “This plan is potentially the most innovative initiative to improve the efficiency of public transport in the city since the introduction of bus lanes. “Dublin City Council appears to be exceptionally determined to deliver.” that. ” The plans have received a lot of backlash, with Guinness beer company Diageo asking the city council to remove trucks from the north and south wharves so they don’t disrupt the “historic” shipping route to Dublin Port, while Jack・Power held dialogues with some businesses in the city. Center has mixed feelings. Olivia explains exactly how the plan will work and how the changes will affect drivers.
An editorial in Wednesday’s newspaper argued that more than 80 per cent of submissions supported the plan and “gives the council clear direction”. Dublin residents want a more comfortable and accessible city. It’s time to put this plan into action. ”
Ireland in action in the Six Nations
Ireland face Italy in Dublin this afternoon in the second leg of the Six Nations. Andy Farrell made six changes to his squad for the game against France, but Joe McCarthy kept his place after a stormy opening game in Marseille. Gerry Thornley spoke to some of the 22-year-old player’s school coaches about his meteoric rise to the Test team and what’s in store for him. Meanwhile, Nathan Johns looks at the weaknesses Italy and Ireland are trying to exploit, while Matt Williams says the only way to beat Ireland is to be disrespectful to their Italian opponents and consider them already defeated. writing. On our new Rugby Podcast, Gordon D’Arcy spoke to former teammate Felipe Contepomi during the week, but in the Counter Ruck Newsletter (subscribe here), Gerry revealed that URC did not play too often during matches. I’m wondering if I’m missing out on a trick by not playing in the Six Nations window.
An eventful week for Sinn Féin
Another big story this week was the return of the Stormont executive. Michelle O’Neill of Sinn Féin became Prime Minister, becoming the first nationalist to become Prime Minister. Our North Korea correspondent outlines the major challenges facing the new government, including the crisis in health services and the public sector pay crisis that led to historic strikes last month. There is a large-scale conflict.
However, in less encouraging news for Sinn Féin, this week’s Irish Times/Ipsos B&A poll recorded a six point drop in the party’s support in the Republic. The party remains the most popular party in the country, but appears to have lost some of its luster in rural Ireland, with Una Mullaly claiming a lack of a clear vision for Dublin is hurting the party in the capital. do. A series of opinion polls also highlighted a lack of public knowledge about the upcoming referendum, with a majority of voters wanting a “more closed” immigration policy.
Finally, a word about John Bruton. On Wednesday, much of Dale’s legal proceedings were taken over by a former Taoist memorial led by his brother Richard. Jennifer Bray writes about key moments in the former Fine Gael leader’s long career, and Stephen Collins argues that he was frequently misrepresented by the opposition and the media and that “he has rendered some service to the nation.” I can truly say that.” Mr Bruton’s state funeral was held in Dunboyne yesterday, and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, speaking at his graveside in Rousk Cemetery, said Mr Bruton was a man of “unwavering integrity and moral conviction who led our country to great achievements both at home and on the world stage.” “He is a politician who left behind and led the way.”
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