Operation Fern and Increased Deportations

Under Operation Fern, a total of 132 individuals illegally residing in Ireland were deported this year. The Gardaí, Ireland’s national police service, will now use chartered flights to increase the number of deportations. This method is expected to be more efficient, particularly for deporting groups of people to the same destination. The use of charter flights is seen as a practical solution to manage the logistics of deporting larger groups, which can be challenging with commercial flights.

Government’s Plan and Support

Justice Minister Helen McEntee has confirmed that the government has put out a tender to assess the market’s capacity for chartered flights. The aim is to have an arrangement in place to run these flights later in the year. Smaller planes may also be used for individuals deemed dangerous and requiring Garda accompaniment. The government has not disclosed the cost of these flights, citing commercial sensitivity. The number of people deported via charter flights will depend on operational necessities, safety factors, cost-benefit analyses, destination, and aircraft type.

Fianna Fáil spokesperson on justice, Jim O’Callaghan, supports this plan, emphasising that the international protection system must have practical consequences for those who fail their applications. He argues that it is unfair to allow individuals who have failed the legal process to remain in the country, undermining the system’s integrity. O’Callaghan believes that enforcing deportation orders is essential to maintaining public confidence in the immigration system.

No Such Thing as ‘Unvetted Migrant’

In response to concerns about the vetting of migrants, Detective Chief Superintendent Aidan Minnock of the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) has stated that there is no such thing as an “unvetted migrant” in Ireland. Every individual seeking international protection is fingerprinted and identified. Claims that asylum seekers are criminals posing a threat to public safety have been rejected, with the majority being economic migrants seeking better opportunities. Minnock emphasised that the GNIB conducts thorough checks on all individuals entering the country, ensuring that those with criminal records are detained and monitored before deportation.

Organised Crime and Migrant Exploitation

However, Minnock acknowledged the presence of organised crime groups from Albania, Romania, and China involved in drug dealing, car theft, exploitation, and people smuggling in Ireland. These groups exploit legitimate businesses and vulnerable individuals, imposing significant debts on migrants and forcing them into criminal activities. The GNIB has identified networks of smaller groups specialising in different areas of criminal enterprise, such as advertising, cybercrime, finances, and the production of forged documents. Legitimate businesses, including haulage companies and airline staff, are also being exploited to facilitate these criminal activities.

Significant Increase in Asylum Seekers

Ireland has seen a significant increase in the number of people seeking international protection, rising from 13,000 in 2023 to over 21,000 in the past year. The GNIB has emphasised that any person identified as a threat to the state is detained and monitored before deportation. The increase in asylum seekers has put additional pressure on the immigration system, prompting the government to explore more efficient methods of managing deportations.

Details of the Charter Flights

The charter flights will begin later this year, with each flight carrying between 20 and 30 people. The government has not disclosed the cost of these flights, citing commercial sensitivity. The number of people deported via charter flights will depend on operational necessities, safety factors, cost-benefit analyses, destination, and aircraft type. The Department of Justice has stated that this method of deportation has been used in the past and is also employed by other EU member states. In addition to charter flights, commercial flights will continue to be used for deportations.

The Department of Justice has also added two extra countries, Botswana and Algeria, to the “safe” list, bringing the total to ten countries. This list includes Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Georgia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Serbia, and South Africa. The inclusion of these countries on the safe list means that individuals from these nations are less likely to be granted asylum, as they are considered to be generally safe.

New Fee Structure:

• Driving Licence: The cost will rise from €55 to €65.
• Learner Permit: The fee will increase from €35 to €45.
• Full NCT Test: The price will go up from €55 to €60.
• NCT Retest: The cost will increase from €28 to €40.
• Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test (CVRT): There will be a 15% increase in the pre-VAT cost. For example, the cost for vehicles under 3,500kg will rise from €92.91 to €106.85 before VAT. Vehicles with more than eight seats but less than 14 will see the cost increase from €193.82 to €222.89 before VAT.

The RSA stated that these fee adjustments are necessary to support planned expenditures of €18 million on public interest activities and government priorities. The changes are part of the RSA’s business planning for 2025.

In November, it was announced that the RSA would be disbanded and split into two independent agencies following a government-approved plan. An independent external review recommended this restructuring and suggested that fees for RSA customer services be reviewed due to the current unsustainable funding model. The review indicated that fee increases would likely be needed in 2025, with modest increases in subsequent years, conditional on meeting service level targets.

The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has criticised the fee hikes, calling them unjustifiable given the government’s plans to abolish the RSA. IRHA President Ger Hyland described the increases as a “shock” and a “Christmas present” for RSA customers, arguing that it sends the wrong message about an authority that has failed to fulfil its mandate effectively.

The RSA has defended the fee increases, stating that they are essential to maintain and improve the quality of services provided. The authority highlighted that the fees have remained unchanged for over a decade, despite rising operational costs and the need for investment in new technologies and infrastructure.

The fee increase for the NCT and driving licences is expected to impact a significant number of drivers across Ireland. The NCT is a mandatory test for all vehicles over four years old, aimed at ensuring that vehicles on Irish roads are safe and roadworthy. The driving licence fee increase will affect both new drivers applying for their first licence and existing drivers renewing their licences.

The RSA has also announced plans to introduce new measures to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its services. These include the implementation of an online booking system for NCT appointments, the introduction of digital driving licences, and the expansion of the RSA’s customer service team to handle increased demand.

Despite the backlash from the IRHA and other stakeholders, the RSA remains committed to its mission of promoting road safety and reducing the number of road accidents and fatalities in Ireland. The authority has urged drivers to view the fee increases as an investment in their safety and the overall safety of Irish roads.

As the new fees come into effect, the RSA has promised to monitor the impact of the changes and make adjustments if necessary. The authority has also pledged to continue working closely with stakeholders to address any concerns and ensure that the transition to the new fee structure is as smooth as possible.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has highlighted that the majority of these fatalities are due to speeding, reckless driving, and failure to adhere to road safety regulations. The increase in road deaths has not only affected families and communities but has also placed a significant burden on emergency services and healthcare systems. The RSA is now pushing for immediate and effective measures to curb this alarming trend.

One of the key strategies being considered to curb speeding and improve road safety is the expansion of static speed camera locations. These cameras, strategically placed at high-risk areas, have been shown to deter speeding and reduce accidents. The RSA is advocating for an increase in the number of these cameras, particularly in regions with a high incidence of road traffic collisions. By enhancing surveillance and enforcement, the RSA aims to create a safer driving environment and reduce the likelihood of fatal accidents.

The new static speed safety cameras will be operational by the end of 2024 at the following locations:

1. Galway: N59, between Moycullen and Galway City
2. Waterford: N25, between Glenmore and Luffany
3. Wicklow: R772, Arklow Road, Aske, north of Gorey
4. Donegal: N14, east of Letterkenny
5. Carlow: N80, between Barristown and Levitstown
6. Dublin: Crumlin Road/Parnell Road/Dolphin Road/Dolphin’s Barn Junction
7. Mayo: N17, northeast of Claremorris
8. Cork: N22, east of Lissarda and west of Ovens
9. Limerick: N69, east of Askeaton

These locations were selected based on data from fatal and serious injury collisions, as well as speed data and feedback from stakeholders. The aim is to reduce speeding and improve road safety in these high-risk areas. The RSA believes that by targeting these specific locations, they can significantly impact driver behaviour and reduce the number of accidents.

In addition to expanding speed camera coverage, the RSA is proposing a new initiative that offers drivers caught speeding a choice between traditional penalties and educational courses. Under this plan, drivers would have the option to either accept a fine and penalty points on their licence or attend a speed awareness course. The course is designed to educate drivers on the dangers of speeding and promote safer driving habits.

Supporters of this initiative argue that education can be more effective than punitive measures in changing long-term driver behaviour. By understanding the consequences of speeding, drivers may be more likely to adhere to speed limits and drive responsibly. The RSA believes that this dual approach—combining enforcement with education—could significantly reduce speeding incidents and, consequently, road fatalities.

The speed awareness course would cover various aspects of road safety, including the physics of speed, the impact of collisions, and the emotional and financial consequences of accidents. Participants would also hear from victims of road accidents and their families, providing a powerful reminder of the real-life implications of dangerous driving.

Public reaction to the proposal has been mixed. Some drivers welcome the opportunity to avoid penalty points and learn more about road safety, while others are sceptical about the effectiveness of the course. Critics argue that the option to attend a course might be seen as a way to escape punishment, potentially undermining the deterrent effect of fines and penalty points.

The RSA is currently working on the details of the programme, including the curriculum and the logistics of implementation. If successful, this initiative could be rolled out nationwide, providing a consistent approach to handling speeding offences. The success of these initiatives will depend on their implementation and the willingness of drivers to embrace safer driving practices.

The RSA’s proposal is part of a broader effort to achieve the goals set out in Ireland’s Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030. This strategy aims to reduce road deaths and serious injuries by 50% by 2030, with the ultimate goal of achieving zero road deaths by 2050. The strategy includes a range of measures, from infrastructure improvements to public awareness campaigns, all designed to create a safer road environment for all users.

Snowfall Expected in Northern and Western Counties

Forecasts indicate that counties Cavan, Donegal, and Leitrim are most likely to witness snow accumulations and slippery conditions. Similarly, Northern Ireland’s counties including Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry are under a yellow warning, with snow and ice possibly creating hazardous travel scenarios from Monday afternoon into Tuesday morning.

Throughout Monday, rain is expected to be widespread, transitioning into sleet or snow in the colder regions of Ulster and northern Connacht by evening. Daytime temperatures will vary, peaking at a chilly 3 to 5 degrees Celsius in Ulster, while other parts might experience milder weather, reaching up to 12 degrees Celsius.

Icy Nights and Wintry Days Ahead

The night will not only carry on the rain but also bring sleet and snow, especially in northern areas, where elevation may lead to significant snow build-up. Frost and ice will also make an appearance, particularly in northern Ulster, with temperatures plummeting to as low as -1 degree Celsius.

Tuesday promises more widespread sleet and snow, starting in the north and moving southward in the afternoon. Although brief sunny intervals may follow, wintry showers are expected to persist, especially in the north. The highest temperatures will struggle to rise above 6 degrees Celsius.

A Cold Week in Forecast

The weather outlook for the rest of the week remains frosty. Nighttime temperatures are predicted to fall below zero on Tuesday and Wednesday, potentially reaching -3 degrees Celsius. The frost may linger into Thursday morning, making for icy starts, and although some sunshine might break through, northern and western regions could see continued rain and snow showers.

Key Payments Landing Next Week

Next week, eligible recipients will benefit from two significant payments. A substantial €400 Carer’s Support Payment will be issued to caregivers, acknowledging their critical role in society. Additionally, a €200 Living Alone Allowance will be credited to the accounts of widows, widowers, and other single-person households, providing them with extra support during challenging times.

Additional Support in November and December

The government’s commitment to supporting families and individuals will continue throughout November and December. On the week of November 25, a €100 lump sum payment will be made to those receiving the Child Support Grant, aimed at assisting parents with the costs associated with raising children.

In early December, the festive season will see the distribution of the Christmas Bonus Double Payment, along with a second once-off double Child Benefit payment on December 3. These timely payments are expected to bring some holiday cheer to families across the nation.

How to Ensure You Receive Your Payments

To ensure eligible recipients receive their due payments, the Department of Social Protection encourages anyone who believes they might have missed a payment to make contact. A full timeline of the Budget 2025 payments is available for review, providing all necessary details to help recipients verify their eligibility and prepare for upcoming financial support.

The newly appointed National Council includes a dynamic team of healthcare leaders, as follows:

• President: Fameer CK
• General Secretary: Vinu Varghese Kiriyanthan
• Treasurer: Jasmine Mohammed Sharaf
• Vice President: Greeshma P Baby
• Program Coordinator: Mohammed Jesal Hamsa
• Joint Secretaries: Mary Reshma, Anoop Kumar
• Executive Members: Janet Baby Joseph, Eldhose K Baby, Pran Raj Mundadan, Mathews Palakulathil, Evangeline Edmund, Anoop K Viswam

The formation of this council aims to strengthen the professional network of nurses, address critical issues within their work environments, and serve as a collective voice for nursing professionals in Ireland. The association, which originated in Kerala, India, continues to expand its mission globally to ensure nurses have a strong platform to discuss and resolve their workplace concerns.

The United Nurses Association remains steadfast in its vision of providing support, advocacy, and enhanced work conditions for all registered nurses. The establishment of the Ireland Chapter marks another step towards achieving this goal.

Congratulations to the newly appointed National Council!

National Slow Down Day is a dedicated effort to make Irish roads safer by encouraging all drivers to reduce their speed. It’s a day where everyone is urged to reflect on their driving habits, slow down, and help prevent road traffic collisions. But what exactly is this day about, and why should you care?

The Origins of National Slow Down Day

National Slow Down Day was introduced as part of a larger initiative to address road safety concerns in Ireland. Spearheaded by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána, this day emphasizes the devastating impact that speeding can have and aims to foster a culture of safer driving across the country.

Why It’s So Important

At its core, National Slow Down Day is about saving lives. Road traffic accidents caused by speeding not only affect those involved but also tear apart families and communities. By slowing down, drivers can help reduce the likelihood of accidents and create safer conditions for everyone.

The Impact of Speeding on Road Safety

Speeding-Related Statistics in Ireland

According to the RSA, speeding remains one of the leading causes of road fatalities in Ireland. Data reveals that excessive speed is a factor in around one-third of fatal collisions. These sobering statistics highlight why reducing speed is critical for all road users.

Real-Life Stories and Consequences

The true cost of speeding goes far beyond numbers. Consider families who have lost loved ones, and individuals who live with life-changing injuries due to a momentary lapse in judgment behind the wheel. The impact is lasting and profound.

The Human Cost

A collision at high speed can result in catastrophic injuries or death. Imagine losing a family member in a preventable accident. Slowing down by just a few kilometers per hour can mean the difference between life and death.

Financial and Legal Ramifications

Speeding doesn’t just put lives at risk; it also comes with severe legal and financial penalties. Drivers caught speeding can face hefty fines, penalty points, and even disqualification from driving. Is speeding worth the cost?

How Slowing Down Can Prevent Accidents

Giving Drivers More Reaction Time

When you’re speeding, you have less time to react to sudden changes on the road—be it a child crossing, a cyclist, or another vehicle. Slowing down gives you more time to assess the situation and take appropriate action.

Protecting Vulnerable Road Users

Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists are especially vulnerable. By slowing down, drivers can reduce the risk of severe injuries or fatalities among these groups.

Common Myths About Speeding

“I’m Only Speeding a Little—It Doesn’t Matter”

Every kilometer over the speed limit increases the risk of a crash. Even a small reduction in speed can significantly decrease the severity of a collision.

“I’m a Great Driver; I Can Handle High Speeds”

Confidence in your driving skills doesn’t change the laws of physics. High speeds reduce reaction time and increase stopping distance, making even the best drivers prone to accidents.

Practical Tips for Slowing Down While Driving

Plan Your Route and Leave Early

One common reason for speeding is running late. By planning your journey and allowing for extra time, you can avoid the temptation to speed.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

Speed-Limiting Devices

Many modern vehicles come equipped with speed-limiting technology that can be activated to ensure you stay within speed limits.

Apps for Monitoring Speed

There are several apps available that can alert you if you’re exceeding the speed limit. Make use of these to keep your speed in check.

Mindful Driving Techniques

Driving mindfully means being aware of your surroundings, controlling your impulses to speed, and focusing fully on the road ahead. Stay present and commit to driving safely.

Community and National Efforts on Slow Down Day

Gardaí Enforcement Initiatives

On National Slow Down Day, Gardaí will be out in force conducting speed checks and raising awareness about the dangers of speeding. Their presence serves as a reminder that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.

How Communities Can Get Involved

Communities can play a crucial role by promoting awareness campaigns, hosting talks, and supporting local road safety initiatives.

Making Road Safety a Daily Habit

Setting an Example for Others

Be a role model on the road. When others see you driving responsibly, they’re more likely to follow suit.

Educating Young Drivers

Younger drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. Teaching them about the dangers of speeding and the importance of road safety can make a long-term impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Daylight saving time was first introduced in Ireland in 1916, following its implementation in Germany and the UK during World War I to conserve energy. The practice involves moving clocks forward by one hour in the spring (“spring forward”) and back by one hour in the autumn (“fall back”) to make better use of daylight during the longer days of summer. This adjustment aims to provide more daylight in the evening hours, reducing the need for artificial lighting and thereby saving energy.

Despite the European Parliament’s 2019 vote to abolish seasonal clock changes by 2021, the implementation has been delayed, primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the complexities of coordinating such a change across member states. A significant concern for Ireland is the potential for having two different time zones on the island, given Northern Ireland’s alignment with UK time.

Public opinion in Ireland shows a strong preference for ending the clock changes. A poll conducted by Amárach Research found that two-thirds of Irish people support abolishing DST, although 82% are against having different time zones between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The biannual clock changes have been linked to various health and safety issues. Studies suggest that the disruption to sleep patterns can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and traffic accidents. Seán Kelly, an MEP for Ireland South, has been a vocal advocate for ending the practice, citing these health risks and the outdated nature of the energy-saving argument. Kelly is leading a new campaign in the European Parliament to bring the issue back onto the political agenda, emphasising the broad support from MEPs across the political spectrum.

While the European Commission has not yet acted on the 2019 vote, the debate continues. Advocates for abolishing DST argue that the practice is no longer necessary in today’s world and that maintaining a consistent time year-round would simplify life for millions of people. However, any change would require careful coordination to avoid issues such as differing time zones within Ireland.

As Ireland prepares to “fall back” this October, the discussion around the future of daylight saving time remains active.

For unregistered cars without a tag or video account, the M50 toll will increase by 10 cents. However, cars on eight other national toll roads won’t see a price hike, except for the M4 Kilcock to Kinnegad, where the toll will also go up by 10 cents.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) announced these changes today, stating that toll increases can’t be higher than the inflation rate.

There are ten toll roads in Ireland, including the M50 eFlow and the Dublin Port Tunnel, both managed by TII.

Unregistered cars on the M50 will pay 10 cents more, making the toll €3.80. This doesn’t affect drivers with a registered tag or video account.

Unregistered buses, coaches, and lighter goods vehicles will also see a 10-cent increase, bringing their toll to €4.80.

Heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) over 10,000kg with an account will pay 10 cents more, while those without an account will see a 20-cent increase.

The Dublin Port Tunnel toll will rise from €12 to €13 for southbound traffic during morning peak times to keep space for HGVs, which can use the tunnel for free at all times. Other tolls at the Dublin Port Tunnel will stay the same next year.

Buses, coaches, and HGVs on the M1, M3, M4, M7/M8, N18 Limerick Tunnel, and N25 Waterford toll roads will see a 10-cent increase, making the toll €4.10, except for HGVs under 3,500kg on the M3.

HGVs over 3,500kg on the M4 Kilcock to Kinnegad will see a 20-cent increase.

Toll charges will stay at €1.20 for cars on these eight roads, except for the M4 Kilcock to Kinnegad, where there will be a 10-cent increase.

Toll rates are adjusted for inflation, with a 1.7% increase from August 2023 to August 2024 starting January 1, 2025.

Money from tolls collected by TII, along with government funding, is used to maintain national roads.

Key Changes and Benefits

The primary objective of this transition is to allow Gardaí to focus on more operational and enforcement aspects of their work, such as investigations and deportations. Minister McEntee highlighted that this shift is part of a broader strategy to modernise and improve the efficiency of Ireland’s immigration system.

Applicants whose visas are due to expire from 4 November onwards will no longer need to visit a Garda station for renewals. Instead, they can complete the process online via the ISD web portal. This online service, previously available only to residents of Cork, Dublin, Kildare, Limerick, Meath, and Wicklow, is now accessible nationwide.

Investment in Digital Systems

As part of Budget 2025, an additional €25 million has been allocated to the immigration system, with €5 million specifically earmarked for investment in digital systems. This funding aims to modernise the current systems and ensure a more streamlined and user-friendly experience for applicants. The new centralised system will allow applicants to view all their engagements with immigration services on a single platform, enhancing transparency and efficiency.

Background and Implementation

The move towards civilianisation was recommended by the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland. This recommendation is part of a broader effort to optimise the use of Garda resources and improve the overall efficiency of immigration services. The transition is expected to free up Gardaí to focus on critical tasks that require their expertise and training.

Minister McEntee expressed confidence that this change would significantly benefit both the applicants and the Gardaí. “This transfer of responsibility allows Gardaí to dedicate their time to more pressing operational duties, while applicants can enjoy a more streamlined and efficient renewal process,” she said.

How to Renew Your Visa

For those looking to renew their visas, the process is now more straightforward. Applicants can visit the ISD web portal to complete their renewals online. This change eliminates the need for in-person visits to Garda stations, making the process more convenient and accessible for everyone.

The Department of Justice has also implemented a centralised system to handle all immigration services. This system will provide a comprehensive view of all interactions with immigration services, ensuring that applicants have access to all necessary information in one place.

Additional Details

The civilianisation of immigration permission renewals is part of a broader effort to modernise Ireland’s immigration system. The Department of Justice has established a modernisation programme aimed at transforming its immigration services to make them faster, easier to access, and more efficient for all users. This programme includes replacing legacy immigration management systems with a new platform that offers a single view of an individual’s engagement with all aspects of immigration services.

The new platform is expected to significantly improve customer service capacity, offering comprehensive self-service functionality and enhanced border security capabilities. This modernisation effort is designed to provide a more customer-focused and efficient service, ensuring that applicants have a seamless experience when renewing their immigration permissions.

Minister McEntee emphasised the importance of this transition in the context of broader public service reforms. By civilianising administrative functions, the government aims to optimise the use of Garda resources, allowing them to focus on critical operational duties. This change is expected to enhance the overall efficiency of the immigration system, benefiting both the applicants and the Gardaí.

The Department of Justice has also introduced measures to ensure that the transition to the new system is smooth and efficient. Applicants are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the online renewal process and utilise the resources available on the ISD web portal. The Department is committed to providing ongoing support and assistance to ensure that all applicants can navigate the new system with ease.