Ireland News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Tomas Marvanek, 39, faces murder charges in Waterford for the death of Yveta Donovalova, a mother of three. Held without bail since April, he appeared via video but is now required to be physically present for his next court date — a pivotal moment as prosecutors prepare to serve him a book of evidence, marking the formal start of his trial.

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The Dáil narrowly passed a Sinn Féin bill to scrap the three-day abortion waiting period, with 86 votes in favor and 70 against — a move that could reshape reproductive rights in Ireland. Tánaiste Simon Harris champions more free votes on sensitive issues, citing Fine Gael’s past conscience votes as a model for healthy democratic debate. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan, who opposed the bill, defended the 2018 statutory framework, noting that while he supported repealing the eighth amendment, he believes the waiting period was a carefully balanced compromise — and that not all parties allow free votes on such matters. Th...

Lidl just dropped a curveball: their first pub, The Middle Ale, opened right next to a store in Belfast, cleverly sidestepping Northern Ireland’s tight alcohol licensing rules by arguing there weren’t enough bars—not off-licenses—already in the area. After a legal win, they’re serving their own whiskey and gin, rocking their iconic “Middle Aisle” branding, and creating eight new jobs. The regional manager calls it a milestone, and early buzz? Solid.

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Elye Wahi’s World Cup dreams hit a bureaucratic snag as Ivory Coast’s star forward stays put in the U.S. for now, unable to travel to Canada for the Germany clash — not due to any legal trouble, but because his entry paperwork’s still pending. French officials flagged suspicious betting activity tied to a yellow card he picked up last month, but the federation insists no charges have been filed and stands fully behind him. Wahi, who started Ivory Coast’s opener against Ecuador, will wait it out stateside until the squad returns — all while the team gears up for...

Heavy rain warning hits Waterford, Cork, and Kerry as Met Éireann issues a Yellow Weather Alert from last night at 9 PM until this morning at 9 AM — expect spot flooding and tricky travel conditions. Stay alert, stay safe, and keep an eye on the forecast as officials monitor the situation closely.

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Ireland’s universities are climbing the global rankings—and it’s no small feat. Trinity College Dublin holds steady at 75, still Ireland’s top school, while UCD makes a massive leap into the top 100 at 100. UCC and University of Galway also rise, and several others gain ground. QS highlights Ireland’s growing reputation among academics, employers, and international students. While MIT remains 1 for the 15th year, Irish schools are shining brighter on the world stage.

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Reds Build Momentum with Two Straight Wins

Three guys take a risky dip in the River Shannon in Limerick, get pulled out by firefighters—only to be arrested right after by police for public intoxication and endangering themselves. The whole drama was caught on video, sparking online buzz as authorities investigate further.

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A Limerick hospital has issued a full apology for the tragic death of baby Pádraig O’Brien-O’Donnell, who died just four hours after birth in 2022 due to preventable medical failings. The HSE admitted liability, acknowledged systemic shortcomings, and pledged to improve care through staff training. His parents settled a High Court case — on the four-year anniversary of his death — seeking justice for Pádraig and to prevent other families from enduring the same agony. The judge expressed deep sympathy, while Pádraig’s mother said the HSE’s honest admission of failure brought them some measure of closure, even a...

Rugby’s tackle-height rule change—lowering it from the armpit to the sternum—is delivering major safety wins: concussions dropped 38% in adult men’s rugby and 63% in women’s, with overall injuries falling 18% and 30% respectively, based on data from 86,000+ match hours. World Rugby has now approved the change globally for community play, but concussion rates in schoolboy rugby remain unchanged, signaling a need for more research to protect younger players.

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A damning inquiry into Muckamore Abbey Hospital exposes a culture of abuse and neglect, where systemic bullying, misuse of restraints, and overmedication left vulnerable patients in a dazed, traumatized state. CCTV footage played a pivotal role in uncovering the horrors, confirming families’ long-standing fears. Staff shortages, lack of meaningful activities, and failed oversight created a dangerous environment. With 106 urgent reform recommendations and ongoing prosecutions, this report aims to be a turning point — ensuring accountability and preventing future tragedies.

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Cocaine Fine for Woman in Jail

Twenty-four-year-old swimmer Ian Gilvarry is set to compete in the Special Olympics Ireland Summer Games in Dublin this June, representing Team Munster alongside 21 other Limerick athletes. Diagnosed with autism as a child, Ian found confidence through swimming lessons and joined the Special Olympics Club at eight, eventually winning medals and falling in love with long-distance freestyle. He trains twice a week with a mainstream club and is also making waves off the pool by raising over 8,600 euros for his team through community fundraising. For many athletes, this is their first national competition — a moment of immense pride and joy. Ia...

Twenty-four-year-old swimmer Ian Gilvarry is set to compete in the Special Olympics Ireland Summer Games in Dublin this June, representing Team Munster alongside 21 other Limerick athletes. Diagnosed with autism as a child, Ian found confidence through swimming lessons and joined the Special Olympics Club at eight, eventually winning medals and falling in love with long-distance freestyle. He trains twice a week with a mainstream club and is also making waves off the pool by raising over 8,600 euros for his team through community fundraising. For many athletes, this is their first national competition — a moment of immense pride and joy. Ia...

Twenty-four-year-old swimmer Ian Gilvarry is set to compete in the Special Olympics Ireland Summer Games in Dublin this June, representing Team Munster alongside 21 other Limerick athletes. Diagnosed with autism as a child, Ian found confidence through swimming lessons and joined the Special Olympics Club at eight, eventually winning medals and falling in love with long-distance freestyle. He trains twice a week with a mainstream club and is also making waves off the pool by raising over 8,600 euros for his team through community fundraising. For many athletes, this is their first national competition — a moment of immense pride and joy. Ia...

University Hospital Limerick is set to expand dramatically with the official signing of contracts for a second 96-bed block, Block B, right beside the newly opened Block A. Construction is already underway with foundations being laid, aiming for completion by Q3 2026. This expansion is part of a national effort to boost hospital capacity, with over 270 new beds opened across the Mid West since January 2020 — a significant portion at Limerick. The hospital already boasts rapid build units and the first 96-bed block, with more units and a 66-bed block on the horizon. Ministers for Health and Older People have praised th...

Ardscoil Na Mara celebrated its Extra-Curricular Awards Day, spotlighting student excellence across athletics, volleyball, and tennis with honors like Junior and Senior Player of the Year. The event fuels school spirit by recognizing dedication beyond academics, while photographer John Power captured joyful moments now featured in Waterford News & Star and available on the school’s website archive. Fans can also grab a nostalgic photobook, “Colourful Memories of Waterford,” to relive the school’s vibrant history.

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University Hospital Limerick is set to expand again with a brand-new 96-bed inpatient block, part of a major regional push to add 572 beds by 2031—including at Nenagh and Ennis. Just last October, the first 96-bed unit opened, and since 2020, UHL has already added 236 beds. Funded with €16 million from the HSE Capital Plan for 2026, this expansion underscores the government’s commitment to easing pressure on healthcare services and ensuring staff and patients have the space they need.

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Limerick Pride 2026 is blazing into action with a powerful theme of ‘Pride in Our Community,’ setting the stage for EuroPride 2028 — a landmark event poised to draw hundreds of thousands. Amid rising online hate, organizers reaffirm Pride as a vital protest, reminding us that full equality remains unfinished business. The University of Limerick joins forces with Pride to launch a safe, affordable UL Pride Village, while GOSHH on Davis Street becomes a central hub offering vital services like rapid HIV testing and support groups. The week explodes with workshops, art, drag, and sapphic events, culminating in a reimagined parade on July 1...

Limerick is set to boom with housing as five major infrastructure projects unlock land for over ten thousand homes—part of a national push to tackle the crisis. Backed by a new €1 billion fund, key developments like the Mungret District Park active travel link and Colbert Quarter upgrades will directly and indirectly enable thousands of new homes. Local leaders see it as a vote of confidence, while nationwide, these investments aim to unlock up to 200,000 homes—finally removing the roadblocks to building the housing Ireland desperately needs.

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A 20-year-old man faces serious charges after police uncovered over 2,500 illegal child images and extreme pornography on his devices. During arrest, he brandished a knife and slashed his own throat—later disarmed—raising alarms about his potential for self-harm and repeat offenses. Though he admitted to a sexual addiction fueled by dark web forums, he denied creating or sharing the most severe content. Authorities are deeply concerned, especially after discovering images of a seven-year-old child. The case has been delayed as prosecutors seek a secure location for him, with his next court date set for July 9th.

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Four years after their baby boy Pádraig died shortly after birth, parents Leanne OBrien and Patrick ODonnell have reached a settlement with the HSE — a case that ended with a formal apology and systemic changes. Though the amount remains undisclosed, the family’s mission was never about compensation — it was about truth, accountability, and preventing other families from enduring their heartbreak. They describe Pádraig as perfect, cherished, and irreplaceable, and say hearing the HSE admit fault and promise reform brings them some measure of peace. Their hope? That their fight will make even one baby safer, turning their so...

After 46 years, the PSNI and Ministry of Defence have settled a landmark case over the 1976 murder of brothers John, Brian, and Anthony Reavey — a tragedy that has haunted their family for generations. Their brother Eugene Reavey finally secured justice through a £400,000 payout, with the PSNI paying £175,000 and the MoD £225,000 — though the latter denies liability. The case centers on a stolen Sterling submachine gun from a UDR base in 1974, newly uncovered documents linking UDR members to both the theft and the killings. The PSNI’s chief constable formally apologized, acknowledging failures in the original investigation and the deep, lasting trauma inflicted...

The jury has begun deliberations in the high-stakes Jeffrey Donaldson case, tasked with proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt based solely on courtroom evidence—no sympathy allowed. Former political leader Donaldson faces 18 charges spanning decades, including rape, while his wife, a co-accused, undergoes a unique “trial of the facts” due to her medical condition, with no possibility of conviction. Testimonies from victims and Donaldson himself have revealed deeply disturbing allegations, with Donaldson denying all claims. The jury now faces an immense burden: will the prosecution meet the legal standard, or will the verdict reflect the complexities of truth in a case...

A historic Irish gem, Inniscorrig — a grand Victorian Gothic Revival mansion built in 1847 and once graced by royalty — is changing hands. Bought in 2018 for €7.8 million by Shane Little and Nicola O’Flaherty (daughter of automotive legend Nigel O’Flaherty), the estate boasts over 6,000 sq ft, six bedrooms, a private harbor, sea pool, and manicured grounds. It’s hosted Ireland’s elite, from Dunlop’s William Harvey du Cros to the Smurfit family. Now, this legacy property is poised for a lucrative sale to an Irish family living abroad, marking a new chapter for one of Ireland’s most storied estates.

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Waterford’s new transport hub set to open in 2027 will bring inter-city buses right to the north quays, slashing the hassle of hopping between distant stops. While the old south quays station stays put, Bus Connects will reroute services to converge at the train station’s new hub — meaning bigger coaches and smoother commutes for everyone. This major upgrade aims to knit Waterford’s transport network together, making travel easier and more efficient for locals and visitors alike.

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Kia’s new K4 is here to steal the show—with a sleeker, roomier design and a tech-packed interior that’s pure premium. Featuring a floating roof, hidden door handles, and a jaw-dropping triple panoramic display, it’s packed with smart features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. Under the hood, a 1.0 TGDi mild hybrid delivers smooth performance, and it’s built in Mexico for the first time. Priced from €31,500 to €38,500, this C-segment standout blends style, comfort, and tech to turn heads and deliver a premium drive.

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Get ready to witness jazz magic this Friday in Limerick as the Shuteen Eredenebaatar Quartet takes the stage at the Lime Tree Theatre. Just 20-something and already a rising star, Shuteen blends classical precision with fiery jazz improvisation, backed by a tight, electrifying quartet. Originally from Mongolia, she’s redefining modern jazz with her award-winning compositions and dynamic performances. Don’t miss this chance to see a powerhouse artist before she explodes onto the global scene—tickets start at just five euros.

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Kingfishr are set to dominate Ireland’s summer of 2027 with three massive headline shows—Belfast, Dublin, and Thomond Park—drawing over 90,000 fans. Fuelled by chart-topping hits like “Killeagh,” a debut album that ruled the charts, and skyrocketing streaming numbers, the Limerick-born band is on a breakout run. Their electrifying live performances have sold out stages worldwide, from UK festivals to a sold-out North American tour. Formed by engineering students, they’re now headlining venues they once dreamed of seeing their heroes fill—proof they’re not just rising, they’re rewriting the rules.

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The trial of former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson enters its final phase as the judge outlines evidence for the jury, who will soon deliberate on 18 charges including rape and indecent assault spanning decades. Donaldson, 63, pleads not guilty, while his wife, Eleanor, 60, faces aiding and abetting charges—but her case proceeds under mental health considerations, avoiding criminal conviction. The judge emphasized the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, placing the burden squarely on the jury to weigh every detail before delivering their verdict.

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University Hospital Limerick is set to expand dramatically with a new 96-bed block, part of a major government-backed push to boost regional healthcare capacity. Construction kicks off in October 2026, with completion by late 2029 — following the recent approval of a second 96-bed block and smaller rapid-build units. This investment, coupled with a 44-acre site in Raheen, aims to transform care across Limerick, Clare, and Tipperary, ensuring safer, higher-quality services for patients and staff.

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In a shocking home invasion in Limerick, Ireland, a man was violently assaulted with a sword and airgun while being filmed by his attacker — who later laughed at the camera. The victim, Erol Ibrhaim, suffered multiple blows and was threatened with death. The suspect, Darragh Manning, 25, pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary and admitted to the assault, while his accomplice, “Mr. X,” pointed the airgun. Authorities found evidence including clothing, a knife, and a screwdriver at the scene. Manning, with 89 prior convictions, claimed he was on drugs and did “stupid stuff,” but offered no excuse. He’s now awaiting sentencing.

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Limerick’s clothing banks are turning into litter hotspots, with overflowing bins and dumped trash turning once-helpful donation points into eyesores—especially as the city centre ranks worst in the country for litter. Councilman Pádraigh Reale isn’t calling for bans, but for smarter management: he’s demanding accountability from providers, better bin placement, and a public collection schedule to prevent overflow and keep the city cleaner.

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Cork’s St. John’s Eve is going green this year—no bonfires, just family fun! With seven vibrant, smoke-free events across the city, including a brand-new spot in Ballincollig, families can enjoy face painting, music, crafts, games, and rides—all while honoring the spirit of the old tradition in a safer, more sustainable way. From Mayfield to Mahon, these community-driven celebrations are turning up the heat on joy without the smoke.

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Cork City Fire Brigade is turning up the heat at this year’s Cork Summer Show with an interactive, family-packed fire safety experience. From live demos and gear showcases to critical home safety tips — like checking smoke alarms, escaping safely, and closing doors at night — they’re making prevention fun and practical. Special focus on lithium-ion battery dangers from e-bikes and kitchen fire safety will keep everyone alert. Kids get hands-on fun with gear, training extinguishers, and giveaways. Remember: get out, stay out, call them.

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Bill Kenneally, the disgraced former sports coach convicted of abusing fifteen teens and serving an 18.5-year sentence, has died in prison after recent illness. His passing—just a week after a damning report exposed how state agencies ignored abuse cases from the 80s—has been met with quiet closure by survivor Jason Clancy, who sees it as a “strange release” and a full-circle moment. Clancy, along with other victims, has long pushed for legal reform, and they’re now celebrating the Minister for Justice’s pledge to create a new criminal offense for misconduct in public office, with a Law Reform C...

Tesco’s sales growth slowed to just 1% over three months, hitting £16.8 billion, partly due to Middle East uncertainty dampening consumer spending—but food sales rose 2.6%, with premium “Finest” range up 9%. CEO Ken Murphy remains upbeat, citing soaring customer satisfaction and unwavering focus on value, quality, and service. Despite the dip, Tesco’s profit forecast stays unchanged at £3–3.3 billion, showcasing resilience amid global headwinds.

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Kingfishr is exploding onto the scene with massive 2027 outdoor shows at Thomond Park, Belfast, and Marlay Park—each expected to draw over 90,000 fans. After dominating Irish charts with ‘Killeagh’ and their debut album ‘Halcyon,’ the Limerick band’s live energy is turning heads and hearts, building a loyal community through unforgettable performances. With UK chart success and a sold-out tour, they’re now ready to scale even higher—tickets go on sale June 26th, and their North American tour is already packed.

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Minister for Communications Patrick O’Donovan is sounding the alarm on executive pay at semi-State companies like An Post, urging extreme prudence amid global economic uncertainty. Ireland’s small, open economy makes it especially vulnerable, so while strong companies are vital, compensation must be handled with care. A recent disagreement over CEO pay at An Post is being closely watched — the board is nearing finalization of their candidate’s appointment, after which full compensation details will be revealed. The government’s stance? Stability over spectacle.

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A haunting new film, The Lost Children of Tuam, premieres at Galway Film Fleadh, bringing to light the chilling truth uncovered by historian Catherine Corless—hundreds of infant deaths buried in unmarked graves at the Tuam mother and baby home. With Monica Dolan portraying Corless and Liam Neeson producing, the emotionally charged film, adapted from a New York Times article, is directed by Frank Berry and crafted with the gravity and compassion the story demands. Set to debut just steps from the real site, the screening at Town Hall Theatre is a powerful moment of reckoning, honoring the children lo...