Ireland



WFP and SODMA launch anticipatory action plan against El Niño floods in Somalia

Mogadishu (HOL) - The World Food Programme (WFP) and the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SODMA) have activated an Anticipatory Action (AA) plan to mitigate the effects of anticipated El Niño-induced floods in four districts of Somalia: Baardheere, Luuq, J

Dublin

Dublin is the capital and largest city of Ireland. Dublin is in the province of Leinster on Ireland's east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey. The city has an urban area population of 1,345,402. The population of the Greater Dublin Area, as of 2

Новости - mainAssistant.com

Dublin

Dublin is the capital and largest city of Ireland. Dublin is in the province of Leinster on Ireland's east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey. The city has an urban area population of 1,345,402. The population of the Greater Dublin Area, as of 2016, was 1,904,806 people.

Founded as a Viking settlement, the Kingdom of Dublin became Ireland's principal city following the Norman invasion. The city expanded rapidly from the 17th century and was briefly the second largest city in the British Empire before the Acts of Union in 1800. Following the partition of Ireland in 1922, Dublin became the capital of the Irish Free State, later renamed Ireland.

Dublin is administered by a City Council. The city is listed by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network (GaWC) as a global city, with a ranking of "Alpha-", which places it amongst the top thirty cities in the world. It is a historical and contemporary centre for education, the arts, administration, economy and industry.

Dublin is situated at the mouth of the River Liffey and encompasses a land area of approximately 115 square kilometres (44 sq mi) in east-central Ireland. It is bordered by a low mountain range to the south and surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west. The Liffey divides the city in two between the Northside and the Southside. Each of these is further divided by two lesser rivers – the River Tolka running southeast into Dubin Bay, and the River Dodder running northeast to the mouth of the Liffey. Two further water bodies – the Grand Canal on the southside and the Royal Canal on the northside – ring the inner city on their way from the west and the River Shannon.

The River Liffey bends at Leixlip from a northeasterly route to a predominantly eastward direction, and this point also marks the transition to urban development from more agricultural land usage.

Similar to much of the rest of northwestern Europe, Dublin experiences a maritime climate (Cfb) with cool summers, mild winters, and a lack of temperature extremes. The average maximum January temperature is 8.8 °C (48 °F), while the average maximum July temperature is 20.2 °C (68 °F). On average, the sunniest months are May and June, while the wettest month is October with 76 mm (3 in) of rain, and the driest month is February with 46 mm (2 in). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year.

Dublin's sheltered location on the east coast makes it the driest place in Ireland, receiving only about half the rainfall of the west coast. Ringsend in the south of the city records the lowest rainfall in the country, with an average annual precipitation of 683 mm (27 in), with the average annual precipitation in the city centre being 714 mm (28 in). The main precipitation in winter is rain; however snow showers do occur between November and March. Hail is more common than snow. The city experiences long summer days and short winter days. Strong Atlantic winds are most common in autumn. These winds can affect Dublin, but due to its easterly location it is least affected compared to other parts of the country. However, in winter, easterly winds render the city colder and more prone to snow showers.

In the 20th century, smog and air-pollution were an issue in the city, precipitating a ban on bituminous fuels across Dublin. The ban was implemented in 1990 to address black smoke concentrations, that had been linked to cardiovascular and respiratory deaths in residents. Since the ban, non-trauma death rates, respiratory death rates and cardiovascular death rates have declined - by an estimated 350 deaths annually.

The City of Dublin is the area administered by Dublin City Council, but the term "Dublin" is also used to refer to the contiguous urban area which includes parts of the adjacent local authority areas of Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown, Fingal and South Dublin. Together, the four areas form the traditional County Dublin. This area is sometimes known as the Dublin Region. The population of the administrative area controlled by the City Council was 553,165 in the 2016 census, while the population of the urban area was 1,345,402. The County Dublin population was 1,273,069 and that of the Greater Dublin Area 1,904,806. The area's population is expanding rapidly, and it is estimated by the Central Statistics Office that it will reach 2.1 million by 2020.

The percentage of Protestants in Dublin has dropped from over 10% in 1891 to 3-4% today.

Since the late 1990s, Dublin has experienced a significant level of net immigration, with the greatest numbers coming from the European Union, especially the United Kingdom, Poland and Lithuania. There is also immigration from outside Europe, including from India, Pakistan, China and Nigeria. Dublin is home to a greater proportion of newer arrivals than any other part of the country. Sixty percent of Ireland's Asian population lives in Dublin. Over 15% of Dublin's population was foreign-born in 2006.

The capital attracts the largest proportion of non-Catholic migrants from other countries. Increased secularization in Ireland has prompted a drop in regular Catholic church attendance in Dublin from over 90 percent in the mid-1970s down to 14 percent according to a 2011 survey.


Source: Wikipedia

Ireland Sights

Dublin is situated at the mouth of the River Liffey and encompasses a land area of approximately 115 square kilometres (44 sq mi) in east-central Ireland. It is bordered by a low mountain range to the south and surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west. The Liffey divides the city in two between the Northside and the Southside. Each of these is further divided by two lesser rivers – the River Tolka running southeast into Dubin Bay, and the River Dodder running northeast to the mouth of the Liffey. Two further water bodies – the Grand Canal on the southside and the Royal Canal on the northside – ring the inner city on their way from the west and the River Shannon.

The River Liffey bends at Leixlip from a northeasterly route to a predominantly eastward direction, and this point also marks the transition to urban development from more agricultural land usage.

Similar to much of the rest of northwestern Europe, Dublin experiences a maritime climate (Cfb) with cool summers, mild winters, and a lack of temperature extremes. The average maximum January temperature is 8.8 °C (48 °F), while the average maximum July temperature is 20.2 °C (68 °F). On average, the sunniest months are May and June, while the wettest month is October with 76 mm (3 in) of rain, and the driest month is February with 46 mm (2 in). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year.

Dublin's sheltered location on the east coast makes it the driest place in Ireland, receiving only about half the rainfall of the west coast. Ringsend in the south of the city records the lowest rainfall in the country, with an average annual precipitation of 683 mm (27 in), with the average annual precipitation in the city centre being 714 mm (28 in). The main precipitation in winter is rain; however snow showers do occur between November and March. Hail is more common than snow. The city experiences long summer days and short winter days. Strong Atlantic winds are most common in autumn. These winds can affect Dublin, but due to its easterly location it is least affected compared to other parts of the country. However, in winter, easterly winds render the city colder and more prone to snow showers.

In the 20th century, smog and air-pollution were an issue in the city, precipitating a ban on bituminous fuels across Dublin. The ban was implemented in 1990 to address black smoke concentrations, that had been linked to cardiovascular and respiratory deaths in residents. Since the ban, non-trauma death rates, respiratory death rates and cardiovascular death rates have declined - by an estimated 350 deaths annually.

The City of Dublin is the area administered by Dublin City Council, but the term "Dublin" is also used to refer to the contiguous urban area which includes parts of the adjacent local authority areas of Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown, Fingal and South Dublin. Together, the four areas form the traditional County Dublin. This area is sometimes known as the Dublin Region. The population of the administrative area controlled by the City Council was 553,165 in the 2016 census, while the population of the urban area was 1,345,402. The County Dublin population was 1,273,069 and that of the Greater Dublin Area 1,904,806. The area's population is expanding rapidly, and it is estimated by the Central Statistics Office that it will reach 2.1 million by 2020.

The percentage of Protestants in Dublin has dropped from over 10% in 1891 to 3-4% today.

Since the late 1990s, Dublin has experienced a significant level of net immigration, with the greatest numbers coming from the European Union, especially the United Kingdom, Poland and Lithuania. There is also immigration from outside Europe, including from India, Pakistan, China and Nigeria. Dublin is home to a greater proportion of newer arrivals than any other part of the country. Sixty percent of Ireland's Asian population lives in Dublin. Over 15% of Dublin's population was foreign-born in 2006.

The capital attracts the largest proportion of non-Catholic migrants from other countries. Increased secularization in Ireland has prompted a drop in regular Catholic church attendance in Dublin from over 90 percent in the mid-1970s down to 14 percent according to a 2011 survey.


Source: Wikipedia

Ireland Sights

')"> Facebook Twitter Link

Cork

Cork is a city in Ireland, located in the South-West Region, in the province of Munster. It has a population of 125,622 and is the second largest city in the state and the third most populous on the island of Ireland. The greater Metropolitan Cork area (w

Новости - mainAssistant.com

Cork

Cork is a city in Ireland, located in the South-West Region, in the province of Munster. It has a population of 125,622 and is the second largest city in the state and the third most populous on the island of Ireland. The greater Metropolitan Cork area (which includes a number of satellite towns and suburbs) has a population exceeding 300,000. In 2005, the city was selected as the European Capital of Culture.

The city is built on the River Lee which splits into two channels at the western end of the city; the city centre is divided by these channels. They reconverge at the eastern end where the quays and docks along the river banks lead outwards towards Lough Mahon and Cork Harbour, one of the world's largest natural harbours. The city's cognomen of "the rebel city" originates in its support for the Yorkist cause during the English 15th century Wars of the Roses. Corkonians often refer to the city as "the real capital" in reference to the city's role as the centre of anti-treaty forces during the Irish Civil War.

With a population of 125,622, Cork is the second-most populous city in the State and the 16th-most populous area of local government. Per the Local Government Act 2001, Cork City Council is a tier-1 entity of local government with the same status in law as a county council.

While local government in Ireland has limited powers in comparison with other countries, the council has responsibility for planning, roads, sanitation, libraries, street lighting, parks, and a number of other important functions. Cork City Council has 31 elected members representing six electoral wards. The members are affiliated to the following political parties: Fine Gael (5 members), Fianna Fáil (10 members), Sinn Féin (8 members), Anti-Austerity Alliance (3 members), Workers' Party (1 member), Independents (4 members). Certain councillors are co-opted to represent the city at the South-West Regional Authority. A new Lord Mayor of Cork is chosen in a vote by the elected members of the council under a D'Hondt system count. The administrative offices for Cork County Council are also located within the city limits.

For the purposes of elections to Dáil Éireann, the city is part of two constituencies: Cork North-Central and Cork South-Central which each returns four TDs. Following the 2016 general election, these constituencies together returned two TDs for the Fine Gael party, three for Fianna Fáil, two for Sinn Féin and one for the Anti-Austerity Alliance-People Before Profit.

Cork is an important educational centre in Ireland - There are over 35,000 third level students in the city, meaning the city has a higher ratio of students in the population than the national average.[90] Over 10% of the population of the Metropolitan area are students in University College Cork (UCC) and Cork Institute of Technology (CIT), including nearly 3,000 international students from over 100 different countries. UCC is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland, and offers courses in Arts, Commerce, Engineering, Law, Medicine and Science. The university was named "Irish University of the Year" four times since 2003, most recently in 2016. Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) was named Irish "Institute of Technology of the Year" in 2007, 2010 and 2016 and offers third level courses in Computing and IT, Business, Humanities and Engineering (Mechanical, Electronic, Electrical, and Chemical).

The National Maritime College of Ireland is also located in Cork and is the only college in Ireland in which Nautical Studies and Marine Engineering can be undertaken. CIT also incorporates the Cork School of Music and Crawford College of Art and Design as constituent schools. The Cork College of Commerce is the largest 'College of Further Education' in Ireland. Other 3rd level institutions include Griffith College Cork, a private institution, and various other colleges.

Research institutes linked to the third level colleges in the city support the research and innovation capacity of the city and region. Examples include the Tyndall National Institute (ICT hardware research), IMERC (Marine Energy), Environmental Research Institute, NIMBUS (Network Embedded Systems); and CREATE (Advanced Therapeutic Engineering). UCC and CIT also have start-up company incubation centres. In UCC, the IGNITE Graduate Business Innovation Centre aims to foster and support entrepreneurship. In CIT, The Rubicon Centre is a business innovation hub that is home to 57 knowledge based start-up companies.

The population of Cork City and its immediate suburbs was 208,669 according to the 2016 census. There were 119,230 people present in the Cork City Council administered area at the time of the 2011 census, of these 117,221 indicated that they were usually present in Cork. In common with other Irish urban centres, the female population (50.67%) is higher than the male population (49.33%), although the gap is somewhat smaller than in other cities. Of those usually resident, 110,192 (94.00%) indicated that they were White, 2,623 (2.24%) that they were Asian, 1,104 (0.94%) that they were Black, while 3,302 (2.82%) did not state their ethnicity. 100,901 (86.08%) were Irish citizens; 10,295 (8.78%) were citizens of other EU countries; 4,316 (3.68%) were citizens of countries elsewhere in the world; 1,709 (1.46%) did not state their citizenship.

In the 2006 census, no separate figures were provided for Cork City, however for the Greater Cork area, 94.51% identified as White, 1.13% identified as Black, 1.33% identified as Asian, 1.11% identified as Other/Mixed, while 1.91% did not state their ethnicity. In terms of nationality, the figures were 88.78% Irish, 6.56% were other EU citizens, 3.45% were citizens of countries elsewhere in the world and 1.20% did not state their citizenship.

Though the Census of Ireland 2011 counted 119,230 people in Cork city, there are in excess of 300,000 in the Metropolitan Cork area.


Source: Wikipedia

Ireland Sights

With a population of 125,622, Cork is the second-most populous city in the State and the 16th-most populous area of local government. Per the Local Government Act 2001, Cork City Council is a tier-1 entity of local government with the same status in law as a county council.

While local government in Ireland has limited powers in comparison with other countries, the council has responsibility for planning, roads, sanitation, libraries, street lighting, parks, and a number of other important functions. Cork City Council has 31 elected members representing six electoral wards. The members are affiliated to the following political parties: Fine Gael (5 members), Fianna Fáil (10 members), Sinn Féin (8 members), Anti-Austerity Alliance (3 members), Workers' Party (1 member), Independents (4 members). Certain councillors are co-opted to represent the city at the South-West Regional Authority. A new Lord Mayor of Cork is chosen in a vote by the elected members of the council under a D'Hondt system count. The administrative offices for Cork County Council are also located within the city limits.

For the purposes of elections to Dáil Éireann, the city is part of two constituencies: Cork North-Central and Cork South-Central which each returns four TDs. Following the 2016 general election, these constituencies together returned two TDs for the Fine Gael party, three for Fianna Fáil, two for Sinn Féin and one for the Anti-Austerity Alliance-People Before Profit.

Cork is an important educational centre in Ireland - There are over 35,000 third level students in the city, meaning the city has a higher ratio of students in the population than the national average.[90] Over 10% of the population of the Metropolitan area are students in University College Cork (UCC) and Cork Institute of Technology (CIT), including nearly 3,000 international students from over 100 different countries. UCC is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland, and offers courses in Arts, Commerce, Engineering, Law, Medicine and Science. The university was named "Irish University of the Year" four times since 2003, most recently in 2016. Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) was named Irish "Institute of Technology of the Year" in 2007, 2010 and 2016 and offers third level courses in Computing and IT, Business, Humanities and Engineering (Mechanical, Electronic, Electrical, and Chemical).

The National Maritime College of Ireland is also located in Cork and is the only college in Ireland in which Nautical Studies and Marine Engineering can be undertaken. CIT also incorporates the Cork School of Music and Crawford College of Art and Design as constituent schools. The Cork College of Commerce is the largest 'College of Further Education' in Ireland. Other 3rd level institutions include Griffith College Cork, a private institution, and various other colleges.

Research institutes linked to the third level colleges in the city support the research and innovation capacity of the city and region. Examples include the Tyndall National Institute (ICT hardware research), IMERC (Marine Energy), Environmental Research Institute, NIMBUS (Network Embedded Systems); and CREATE (Advanced Therapeutic Engineering). UCC and CIT also have start-up company incubation centres. In UCC, the IGNITE Graduate Business Innovation Centre aims to foster and support entrepreneurship. In CIT, The Rubicon Centre is a business innovation hub that is home to 57 knowledge based start-up companies.

The population of Cork City and its immediate suburbs was 208,669 according to the 2016 census. There were 119,230 people present in the Cork City Council administered area at the time of the 2011 census, of these 117,221 indicated that they were usually present in Cork. In common with other Irish urban centres, the female population (50.67%) is higher than the male population (49.33%), although the gap is somewhat smaller than in other cities. Of those usually resident, 110,192 (94.00%) indicated that they were White, 2,623 (2.24%) that they were Asian, 1,104 (0.94%) that they were Black, while 3,302 (2.82%) did not state their ethnicity. 100,901 (86.08%) were Irish citizens; 10,295 (8.78%) were citizens of other EU countries; 4,316 (3.68%) were citizens of countries elsewhere in the world; 1,709 (1.46%) did not state their citizenship.

In the 2006 census, no separate figures were provided for Cork City, however for the Greater Cork area, 94.51% identified as White, 1.13% identified as Black, 1.33% identified as Asian, 1.11% identified as Other/Mixed, while 1.91% did not state their ethnicity. In terms of nationality, the figures were 88.78% Irish, 6.56% were other EU citizens, 3.45% were citizens of countries elsewhere in the world and 1.20% did not state their citizenship.

Though the Census of Ireland 2011 counted 119,230 people in Cork city, there are in excess of 300,000 in the Metropolitan Cork area.


Source: Wikipedia

Ireland Sights

')"> Facebook Twitter Link

Limerick

Limerick is a city in county Limerick, Ireland. It is located in the Mid-West Region and is also part of the province of Munster. Limerick City and County Council is the local authority for the city. The city lies on the River Shannon, with the historic c

Новости - mainAssistant.com

Limerick

Limerick is a city in county Limerick, Ireland. It is located in the Mid-West Region and is also part of the province of Munster. Limerick City and County Council is the local authority for the city. The city lies on the River Shannon, with the historic core of the city located on King's Island, which is bounded by the Shannon and the Abbey River. Limerick is also located at the head of the Shannon Estuary where the river widens before it flows into the Atlantic Ocean. With a population of 94,192 (2016 census), Limerick is the third most populous urban area in the state, and the fourth most populous city on the island of Ireland.

There are 102,161 people living in the Limerick City Metropolitan District. On 1 June 2014 following the merger of Limerick City and County Council a new Metropolitan District of Limerick was formed within the united council which extended the city area. The Metropolitan District includes the city urban area and extends outwards towards Patrickswell in the west and Castleconnell in the east. The City Metropolitan Area however excludes city suburbs located within County Clare. When included this increases the overall city and metropolitan area by a further 5,000 with a combined total population of 107,161. Limerick is one of the constituent cities of the Cork–Limerick–Galway corridor which has a population of 1 million people. It is located at a strategic position on the River Shannon with four main crossing points near the city centre. To the south of the city is the Golden Vale, an area of rich pastureland. Historically, much of the city's industry was based on this rich agricultural hinterland and it is particularly noted for Limerick Ham.

Limerick is officially the third largest city in Ireland with a population of 102,161 people according to the 2011 census carried out by the CSO. The past census reported a large population decline in central city areas due in part to the Limerick regeneration process where in these areas the largest reduction was reported nationally and also to outward migration following the collapse of the local and national economy from 2008 onwards. The population of the Limerick Larger Urban Zone as defined by the EU is 162,413. Limerick has a notably ethnically diverse population, and a large immigrant community, which saw especially rapid growth during the Celtic Tiger and the following decade. The Polish community is the second largest outside of Dublin, with an estimated 10,000 living and working in the city. Ireland's first Polish bank opened in 2007. The African community has set up a number of churches, which are now part of the cultural makeup of the city.

Limerick has a large stock of local authority housing. Prior to the merger of Limerick City and County Council 41% of all housing within the old Limerick City Council boundary was local authority, which was the highest in Ireland. This figure is however no longer accurate given the larger metropolitan district of the city.


Source: Wikipedia

Ireland Sights

Galway

Galway is a city in the West of Ireland in the province of Connacht. Galway City Council is the local authority for the city. Galway lies on the River Corrib between Lough Corrib and Galway Bay and is surrounded by County Galway. It is the fourth most pop

Новости - mainAssistant.com

Galway

Galway is a city in the West of Ireland in the province of Connacht. Galway City Council is the local authority for the city. Galway lies on the River Corrib between Lough Corrib and Galway Bay and is surrounded by County Galway. It is the fourth most populous urban area in the Republic of Ireland and the sixth most populous city in the island of Ireland.

According to the 2016 Irish Census, Galway city has a population of 79,504; however, the rural county agglomeration is far bigger. Galway will be European Capital of Culture in 2020, alongside Rijeka, Croatia.

Galway has a year-round mild, moist, temperate and changeable climate, due to the prevailing winds of the North Atlantic Current. The city does not experience temperature extremes, with temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F) and above 30 °C (86 °F) being rare. The city receives an average of 1,156 mm (45.51 in) of precipitation annually, which is evenly distributed throughout the year. The average January temperature in the city is 5.9 °C (43 °F) and the average July temperature is 15.9 °C (61 °F). This means that Galway, like most of Ireland, has a Maritime Temperate climate (Cfb) according to the Köppen climate classification system. While extreme weather is rare, the city and county can experience severe windstorms that are the result of vigorous Atlantic depressions that occasionally pass along the north west coast of Ireland. Most of these storms occur between late autumn and early spring. Due to the city's northerly location and its longitude, Galway has long summer days. Daylight at midsummer is before 04:20 and lasts until after 23:00. In midwinter, daylight does not start until 08.49, and is gone by 16:19.

Galway is known as Ireland's Cultural Heart and is renowned for its vibrant lifestyle and numerous festivals, celebrations and events. Every November, Galway hosts the Tulca Festival of Visual Arts as well as numerous festivals.

On 1 December 2014, the Director General of UNESCO announced the official designation of Galway as a UNESCO City of Film.

In 2004, there were three dance organisations, ten festival companies, two film organisations, two Irish language organisations, 23 musical organisations, twelve theatre companies, two visual arts groups, and four writers' groups based in the city.

Furthermore, there were 51 venues for events, most of which were specialised for a certain field (e.g. concert venues or visual arts galleries), though ten were described as being 'multiple event' venues. The main squares in the city are Eyre Square (containing John F. Kennedy Park) in the centre of the city, and Spanish Parade next to the Spanish Arch.

In 2007, Galway was named as one of the eight "sexiest cities" in the world. A 2008 poll ranked Galway as the 42nd best tourist destination in the world, or 14th in Europe and 2nd in Ireland (behind Dingle). It was ranked ahead of all European capitals except Edinburgh, and many traditional tourist destinations (such as Venice). The New Zealand Herald listed Galway as one of 'five great cities to visit in 2014'.

Galway City is the capital of Connacht. The city has experienced very rapid growth in recent years. Galway has a strong local economy with complementary business sectors, including manufacturing industry, tourism, retail and distribution, education, healthcare and services that include financial, construction, cultural, and professional.

Most (47%) of the people employed in Galway work in either the commerce or professional sector, with a large number (17%) also employed in manufacturing. Most industry and manufacturing in Galway, like the rest of Ireland, is hi-tech (e.g. ICT, medical equipment, electronics, chemicals, etc.), due to the Celtic Tiger economic boom. Companies such as Boston Scientific, Medtronic, EA Games, Cisco and SAP AG have their regional offices or other offices in Galway City and environs. Soon Apple plans to build a massive data centre in Athenry outside Galway City. Tourism is also of major importance to the city, which had over 2.1 million visitors in 2000, and produced revenue of over €400 million.


Source: Wikipedia

Ireland Sights

Waterford

Waterford is a city in Ireland. It is in the South-East Region, Ireland and is part of the province of Munster. The city is situated at the head of Waterford Harbour. It is the oldest and the fifth most populous city in the Republic of Ireland. It is the

Новости - mainAssistant.com

Waterford

Waterford is a city in Ireland. It is in the South-East Region, Ireland and is part of the province of Munster. The city is situated at the head of Waterford Harbour. It is the oldest and the fifth most populous city in the Republic of Ireland. It is the eighth most populous city on the island of Ireland. Waterford City and County Council is the local government authority for the city. Waterford is known for Waterford Crystal, a legacy of the city's former glass-making industry. According to the 2016 Census, 53,504 people live in the city of Waterford and its suburbs.

With a population of 53,504, Waterford is the fifth most populous city in the State and the 32nd most populous area of local government.

Following the Local Government Reform Act 2014, Waterford City and County Council is the local government authority for the city. The authority came into operation on 1 June 2014. Prior to this the city had its own local council, Waterford City Council. The new Council is the result of a merger of Waterford City Council and Waterford County Council. The Council has 32 representatives (councillors) who are elected from five electoral areas. The city itself forms three of the electoral areas – which when combined form the Metropolitan District of Waterford – and returns a total of 18 councillors to Waterford City and County Council. Residents in these areas are restricted to voting for candidates located in their ward for local elections. The office of the Mayor of Waterford was established in 1377. A mayor is then elected by the councillors from the two electoral areas of the Metropolitan District of Waterford every year, and there is no limit to the number of terms an individual may serve. Mary O'Halloran who was mayor during 2007–2008 was the first woman to hold the post. The current mayor is Adam Wyse.

For the purposes of elections to Dáil Éireann, the city is part of the Waterford constituency, which includes the county of Waterford except for those parts of the county near Clonmel that lie in Tipperary South. The constituency elects four deputies to Dáil Éireann. There are no such ward restrictions for these elections and voters are entitled to vote for any candidate throughout the city and county.

The climate of Waterford is, like the rest of Ireland, classified as a maritime temperate climate (Cfb) according to the Köppen climate classification system. It is mild and changeable with abundant rainfall and a lack of temperature extremes. The counties in the Waterford area are often referred to as the 'Sunny Southeast'. The hottest months of the year are June, July and August with temperatures of around 17 – 22 degrees. Waterford gets rainfall all year round and the wettest months are October, November, December and January.

Waterford is the main city of Ireland's South-East Region. Historically Waterford was an important trading port which brought much prosperity to the city throughout the city's eventful history. Throughout its history Waterford Crystal provided employment to thousands in the city and surrounding areas.

Waterford Port is Ireland's closest deep-water port to mainland Europe, handling approximately 12% of Ireland's external trade by value. Waterford's most famous export, Waterford Crystal is an internationally known and highly sought after product that was manufactured in the city from 1783 to 2009 and again from 2010 to the present day. Some of the places where Waterford Crystal can be seen include New York City where Waterford Crystal made the 2,668 crystals for the famous New Year's Eve Ball that is dropped each year in Times Square, in Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle and the Kennedy Center, Washington.

Agriculture also played an important part in Waterford's economic history. Kilmeadan about 5 km from the city was also home to a very successful co-operative. The farmers of the area benefited greatly from the sale of their produce (mostly butter and milk) to the co-op. In 1964, all of the co-ops in Waterford amalgamated, and was registered as Waterford Co-op. This led to the construction of a cheese factory on a green field site opposite the general store, and Kilmeadan cheese was to become one of the most recognised and successful cheddar brands in the world. This is evident as the brand won a gold and bronze medal in the World Cheese Awards in London in 2005.

Today[when?], Waterford is the site of a number of multinational companies including GlaxoSmithkline, Bausch & Lomb, Nypro Healthcare, Sanofi, West Pharmaceuticals, Hasbro, Teva Pharmaceuticals and Honeywell International.

The Irish economic recession from 2008 onwards has had a major negative impact on Waterford's economy. A number of multinational companies have closed from the recession, including Waterford Crystal and Talk Talk, which has led to a high rate of unemployment. Until 2013 the hedge fund office of the Citibank resided here. Waterford Co-op and Avonmore Co-op have merged to form Glanbia plc.

The city is served by 21 primary schools[56] and 9 secondary schools. There is one third level institution in Waterford: Waterford Institute of Technology, which has applied for university status. Waterford College of Further Education previously called the Central Technical Institute (CTI), is a Post Leaving Certificate institute located on Parnell Street, Waterford city. It was founded in 1906 and thus celebrated its centenary in 2005. Mount Sion Secondary and Primary School at Barrack Street were founded by Edmund Ignatius Rice and the schools have seen many prestigious pupils pass through its doors. The Quaker co-educational boarding school, Newtown School is situated in Waterford, east of the city centre.

Waterpark College is a secondary school in Waterford. The school was established in 1892 on the banks of the River Suir as Waterfords' first classical school, and still provides a secondary education to boys and girls from Waterford City, County and the surrounding area. It has only recently become a co-educational school.

De La Salle College is a secondary school in Waterford. With more than 1,000 students and over 70 staff it is the biggest in the county. It ranks as a highly sought after college within the city. Founded by the brothers of the De La Salle in 1892, it now serves as a Catholic school for boys.


Source: Wikipedia

Ireland Sights

Latimer ousts ‘Squad’ member Bowman in Democratic primary in New York

Westchester County Executive George Latimer resoundingly defeated Rep. Jamaal Bowman in the Democratic primary for New York’s 16th Congressional District on Tuesday night, ousting a member of the far-left faction of his own party after a blistering contest.
Post Politics

Latimer ousts ‘Squad’ member Bowman in Democratic primary in New York

Westchester County Executive George Latimer resoundingly defeated Rep. Jamaal Bowman in the Democratic primary for New York’s 16th Congressional District on Tuesday night, ousting a member of the far-left faction of his own party after a blistering contest.

Congressman Curtis triumphs over Trump-backed candidate for Senate

Utah is holding a slate of primary elections, including a race for the Senate seat held by Mitt Romney (R), who announced last year that he would not seek a second term.
Post Politics

Congressman Curtis triumphs over Trump-backed candidate for Senate

Utah is holding a slate of primary elections, including a race for the Senate seat held by Mitt Romney (R), who announced last year that he would not seek a second term.

Maid jaywalked with 4-year-old girl who was killed in River Valley accident: Traffic police

SINGAPORE — The maid who was with a four-year-old girl who was killed in a car accident in January had jaywalked with her in River Valley, despite being told not to. A coroner's inquiry into the death of Zara Mei Orlic was held on June 26, after she had d
Singapore

Maid jaywalked with 4-year-old girl who was killed in River Valley accident: Traffic police

SINGAPORE — The maid who was with a four-year-old girl who was killed in a car accident in January had jaywalked with her in River Valley, despite being told not to. A coroner's inquiry into the death of Zara Mei Orlic was held on June 26, after she had died on Jan 23 when a car hit her at Institution Hill at River Valley. During the inquiry, it was revealed that Zara had dashed across the road when the accident happened. Zara had suddenly appeared between two stationary vehicles parked along Institution Hill, which is a two-lane road, when a car driving from the opposite direction hit her. Traffic Police station inspector (SI) Muhammad Firdaus Suleiman was called as a witness. He said the maid, who was holding the hand of Zara's two-year-old sister, was three steps behind Zara and yelled for the car to stop when the collision occurred. When assisting officer Jeanice Lim asked how long it took for Zara to be visible in the in-car camera footage to when she was hit, SI Firdaus replied that it was one second.

Czechia, Türkiye battle in Group F at UEFA Euro 2024

With first place in Group F at UEFA Euro 2024 already spoken for, Czechia and Türkiye meet in their round-robin finales trying to secure a spot in the Round of 16.
Hiiraan Online

Czechia, Türkiye battle in Group F at UEFA Euro 2024

With first place in Group F at UEFA Euro 2024 already spoken for, Czechia and Türkiye meet in their round-robin finales trying to secure a spot in the Round of 16.

President Hassan congratulates Somalis on 64th Independence Day anniversary

Mogadishu (HOL) — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud attended a ceremony in Mogadishu on Tuesday to mark Somalia's 64th Independence Day. He was joined by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, and other senior officials. Duri
Hiiraan Online

President Hassan congratulates Somalis on 64th Independence Day anniversary

Mogadishu (HOL) — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud attended a ceremony in Mogadishu on Tuesday to mark Somalia's 64th Independence Day. He was joined by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, and other senior officials. During the event, President Mohamud wished Somalis at home and abroad a joyous Independence Day.

Haitians wary as Kenyan police arrive on latest US-backed mission

Hundreds of Kenyan police officers have arrived in Haiti as part of a US-backed security intervention aiming to rescue the Caribbean country from a criminal insurrection that toppled the prime minister and brought death and chaos to the streets.
Hiiraan Online

Haitians wary as Kenyan police arrive on latest US-backed mission

Hundreds of Kenyan police officers have arrived in Haiti as part of a US-backed security intervention aiming to rescue the Caribbean country from a criminal insurrection that toppled the prime minister and brought death and chaos to the streets.

Security on high alert after suspected terrorists spotted in Pathankot

Recent security alert in Pathankot due to suspicious sightings of two suspicious armed individuals moving in villages near the Pathankot district of Punjab, which borders the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir. The forces have assembled and initiated a com
India News, Latest News Headlines & Live Updates from India: TOI

Security on high alert after suspected terrorists spotted in Pathankot

Recent security alert in Pathankot due to suspicious sightings of two suspicious armed individuals moving in villages near the Pathankot district of Punjab, which borders the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir. The forces have assembled and initiated a combing and sanitisation operation and there is nothing to panic, as the security forces have the situation under control, he added.

How WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange sneaked out of Britain to freedom aboard a £20 million private jet after 14 years tumultuous years, write SAM GREENHILL and GEORGE ODLING

At 6.36pm on a balmy Monday evening, amid huge secrecy, the WikiLeaks founder 'left the jurisdiction of England and Wales' as the luxury plane lifted off from Stansted Airport's runway.
News | Mail Online

How WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange sneaked out of Britain to freedom aboard a £20 million private jet after 14 years tumultuous years, write SAM GREENHILL and GEORGE ODLING

At 6.36pm on a balmy Monday evening, amid huge secrecy, the WikiLeaks founder 'left the jurisdiction of England and Wales' as the luxury plane lifted off from Stansted Airport's runway.

Chaos at Heathrow Airport after British Airways IT failure leaves passengers 'stranded on planes' and 'suffering panic attacks' while those in Terminal 5 say there are now hours of delays collecting luggage 'and some planes left without bags'

The UK's busiest airport revealed passengers travelling from Terminal 5 'may be impacted' by the failure in BA's Allocation systems, adding that no other airline has been affected.
News | Mail Online

Chaos at Heathrow Airport after British Airways IT failure leaves passengers 'stranded on planes' and 'suffering panic attacks' while those in Terminal 5 say there are now hours of delays collecting luggage 'and some planes left without bags'

The UK's busiest airport revealed passengers travelling from Terminal 5 'may be impacted' by the failure in BA's Allocation systems, adding that no other airline has been affected.

Julian Assange breaks down in tears as judge on US-controlled island declares him 'a free man' and sentences him to time served for espionage: WikiLeaks founder released without supervision for the first time in 14 years

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has today pleaded guilty to a single espionage charge in a US federal court on the Pacific island of Saipan.
News | Mail Online

The looming war so gruesome it would make Gaza look like child's play: MARK DUBOWITZ's grave warning about the imminent clash that might even wake Sleepy Joe Biden

The Middle East is now closer to all-out regional war than it was when Israel traded direct strikes with Iran in the months after Hamas's October 7 terror attacks.
News | Mail Online

The looming war so gruesome it would make Gaza look like child's play: MARK DUBOWITZ's grave warning about the imminent clash that might even wake Sleepy Joe Biden

The Middle East is now closer to all-out regional war than it was when Israel traded direct strikes with Iran in the months after Hamas's October 7 terror attacks.

Jude Bellingham's teary-eyed family console the starlet as Megan Pickford, Tolami Benson and Ellie Anderson lead the glamorous WAGs who watched England in yet another dismal Euros performance - after more off-field drama for the Three Lions

The boring state of play on pitch this evening was a huge contrast to the off-pitch drama Gareth Southgate and the England camp have been trying to keep under wraps.
News | Mail Online

Jude Bellingham's teary-eyed family console the starlet as Megan Pickford, Tolami Benson and Ellie Anderson lead the glamorous WAGs who watched England in yet another dismal Euros performance - after more off-field drama for the Three Lions

The boring state of play on pitch this evening was a huge contrast to the off-pitch drama Gareth Southgate and the England camp have been trying to keep under wraps.

Lok Sabha gears up for first Speaker election fight since 1976: Key points

Failing to reach a consensus over the Speaker candidate for the 18th Lok Sabha, the opposition INDIA bloc has fielded K Suresh against BJP-led NDA's pick, Om Birla. This contest emerges as Birla vies for a second stint in the Speaker's position. Om Birla, th
India News, Latest News Headlines & Live Updates from India: TOI

Lok Sabha gears up for first Speaker election fight since 1976: Key points

Failing to reach a consensus over the Speaker candidate for the 18th Lok Sabha, the opposition INDIA bloc has fielded K Suresh against BJP-led NDA's pick, Om Birla. This contest emerges as Birla vies for a second stint in the Speaker's position. Om Birla, the MP from Rajasthan's Kota, was renominated by the NDA for the Speaker post on Tuesday. While the opposition has put all its weight into ensuring the Speaker election is not a cakewalk for the BJP.

'Simply not for me': After consecutive defeats, Bhaichung Bhutia quits politics

Despite electoral setbacks, I am stepping away from politics with a focus on serving the people. My commitment to the development of sports and tourism in Sikkim remains strong, and I trust in others to continue this important work for the state's progress.
India News, Latest News Headlines & Live Updates from India: TOI

'Simply not for me': After consecutive defeats, Bhaichung Bhutia quits politics

Despite electoral setbacks, I am stepping away from politics with a focus on serving the people. My commitment to the development of sports and tourism in Sikkim remains strong, and I trust in others to continue this important work for the state's progress.

Security on high alert after movement of suspected armed terrorists spotted in Pathankot

Recent security alert in Pathankot due to suspicious sightings of two suspicious armed individuals moving in villages near the Pathankot district of Punjab, which borders the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir. The forces have assembled and initiated a com
India News, Latest News Headlines & Live Updates from India: TOI

Security on high alert after movement of suspected armed terrorists spotted in Pathankot

Recent security alert in Pathankot due to suspicious sightings of two suspicious armed individuals moving in villages near the Pathankot district of Punjab, which borders the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir. The forces have assembled and initiated a combing and sanitisation operation and there is nothing to panic, as the security forces have the situation under control, he added.

One in five Gazans facing extreme lack of food, WHO chief says

«Only an end to the hostilities and immediate, unimpeded and sustained humanitarian access can reduce the risk of a famine occurring in the Gaza Strip,» Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said
TASS

One in five Gazans facing extreme lack of food, WHO chief says

«Only an end to the hostilities and immediate, unimpeded and sustained humanitarian access can reduce the risk of a famine occurring in the Gaza Strip,» Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said

British agency reports another incident off coast of Yemen

Accordint to UKMTO, the master of a merchant vessel reported a missile impacted the water in close proximity to the vessel, the crew are reported safe
TASS

British agency reports another incident off coast of Yemen

Accordint to UKMTO, the master of a merchant vessel reported a missile impacted the water in close proximity to the vessel, the crew are reported safe

Russia’s Pavel Datsyuk elected to Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto

Other players to be inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2024 include Canadian defenseman Shea Weber, two-time Olympic champion and 2006 world champion, and US forward Jeremy Roenick, silver medalist of the 2002 Olympics
TASS

Russia’s Pavel Datsyuk elected to Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto

Other players to be inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2024 include Canadian defenseman Shea Weber, two-time Olympic champion and 2006 world champion, and US forward Jeremy Roenick, silver medalist of the 2002 Olympics

New MCB Seychelles' MD Desire Leo takes office on July 1

The new managing director of the Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) in Seychelles, Desire Leo, discussed the financial institution's role in the community and the economy's development in his meeting with President Wavel Ramkalawan on Tuesday. Leo, who is Maur
Seychelles News Agency

New MCB Seychelles' MD Desire Leo takes office on July 1

The new managing director of the Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) in Seychelles, Desire Leo, discussed the financial institution's role in the community and the economy's development in his meeting with President Wavel Ramkalawan on Tuesday. Leo, who is Mauritian and worked at the MCB Group headquarters in Port Louis as Head of Development, was part of a delegation accompanying the outgoing managing director, Bernard Jackson in his farewell call on the Seychelles' President. Jackson was appointed to the MCB Seychelles branch in February 2008. Also present was the Bank's executive director, Jean Michel Ng Tseung, who said, «MCB in Seychelles has a very important role to play in the community and the economy's success.» Ng Tseung said in the meeting with the President, «We also spoke about ways through which the bank may improve in its day to day running and it was a very positive and productive exchange where we have received many insights and advice. It is very important to us that Jackson's replacement can also contribute to the country progressing with the bank's support.» The new managing director will take office on July 1 and said that not only will he have to fill in Jackson's shoes, but he will bring in continuity. Leon also revealed that he planned to introduce new technologies as part of the process of improving the bank's services. «We are in the banking sector and we have to always keep abreast of the latest innovations as well as listen to our clients' needs,» he added. Leo said he will have a period of adaptation of course, but will also ensure that the client remains at the heart of the bank. The MCB top officials also announced that as part of discussions with President Ramkalawan, they have touched on installing ATMs in certain areas of the country where there is a need. «We have identified certain areas around the island where we can make such facilities available,» Ng Tseung. Meanwhile, Jackson said, «I am very happy that Desire Leo is taking over from me as we have already touched upon all the topics that are important for Seychelles from the quality of services we provide, the training of personnel and what we can give back to the community. I am hoping that the people I have worked with continue progressing and growing allowing the Seychellois on the team to advance with MCB.» Jackson is leaving for Mauritius to take up a new position at their headquarters on July 1.

Saudi leaders congratulate Qatar’s emir on 11th anniversary of becoming ruler

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman on Tuesday sent a message to Qatar’s emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, congratulating him on the 11th anniversary of his accession. “The king expressed his sincere congratulations and best wishes for health and
Saudi Arabia

Saudi leaders congratulate Qatar’s emir on 11th anniversary of becoming ruler

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman on Tuesday sent a message to Qatar’s emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, congratulating him on the 11th anniversary of his accession. “The king expressed his sincere congratulations and best wishes for health and happiness to (the emir), and to the government and people of Qatar for continued progress and prosperity,” the Saudi Press Agency reported.  Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent a similar message to the emir.

Saudi National Guard minister receives French ambassador to Riyadh

RIYADH: Prince Abdullah bin Bandar, the minister of the National Guard, received Ludovic Pouille, France’s envoy to Saudi Arabia. The discussed topics of mutual interested at the ministry’s headquarters.  The meeting was attended by several senior Nati
Saudi Arabia

Saudi National Guard minister receives French ambassador to Riyadh

RIYADH: Prince Abdullah bin Bandar, the minister of the National Guard, received Ludovic Pouille, France’s envoy to Saudi Arabia. The discussed topics of mutual interested at the ministry’s headquarters.  The meeting was attended by several senior National Guard officials.

Ministry reports nearly 1.5 million religious services to pilgrims during Hajj

RIYADH: Nearly 1.5 million religious services were offered to pilgrims during this year’s Hajj season, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance said that approximately 1,485,000 services had been offered from th
Saudi Arabia

Ministry reports nearly 1.5 million religious services to pilgrims during Hajj

RIYADH: Nearly 1.5 million religious services were offered to pilgrims during this year’s Hajj season, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance said that approximately 1,485,000 services had been offered from the day before Arafat, which was on June 15, until the end of Hajj. Saudi authorities said that 1.8 million pilgrims participated in this year’s Hajj. Six hundred Islamic teachers and translators were on hand to provide pilgrims with information about the duties of annual religious event.

Saudi National Center for Wildlife launches supervisory council for Ibex protected area

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Wildlife in collaboration with the Riyadh Region Municipality, inaugurated the first supervisory council for the Ibex protected area, which encompasses the governorates of Howtat Bani Tamim and Al-Hariq, the Saudi
Saudi Arabia

Saudi National Center for Wildlife launches supervisory council for Ibex protected area

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Wildlife in collaboration with the Riyadh Region Municipality, inaugurated the first supervisory council for the Ibex protected area, which encompasses the governorates of Howtat Bani Tamim and Al-Hariq, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The initiative aims to involve local communities and relevant stakeholders to enhance management practices within the protected area, aligning them with global standards, NCW said in news release. NCW chief executive Mohammed Qurban highlighted the importance of the initiative.

Singapore port congestion shows global ripple impact of Red Sea attacks

SEOUL/SINGAPORE — Congestion at Singapore's container port is at its worst since the Covid-19 pandemic, a sign of how prolonged vessel re-routing to avoid Red Sea attacks has disrupted global ocean shipping — with bottlenecks also appearing in other Asi
Singapore

Singapore port congestion shows global ripple impact of Red Sea attacks

SEOUL/SINGAPORE — Congestion at Singapore's container port is at its worst since the Covid-19 pandemic, a sign of how prolonged vessel re-routing to avoid Red Sea attacks has disrupted global ocean shipping — with bottlenecks also appearing in other Asian and European ports. Retailers, manufacturers and other industries that rely on massive box ships are again battling surging rates, port backups and shortages of empty containers, even as many consumer-oriented firms look to build inventories heading into the peak year-end shopping season. Global port congestion has reached an 18-month high, with 60 per cent of ships waiting at anchor located in Asia, maritime data firm Linerlytica said in June. Ships with a total capacity of over 2.4 million twenty-foot equivalent container units were waiting at anchorages as of mid-June. But, unlike during the pandemic, it is not a buying flurry by house-bound consumers that is swamping ports.

Police called in after cabby refuses to pick up drunk passengers at Chinatown

A taxi driver got into an argument with two men after he declined to ferry them to their destination. The reason for his refusal? Because the men reeked of alcohol, reported Shin Min Daily News. An eyewitness surnamed Deng said he saw two men in their 40s a
Singapore

Police called in after cabby refuses to pick up drunk passengers at Chinatown

A taxi driver got into an argument with two men after he declined to ferry them to their destination. The reason for his refusal? Because the men reeked of alcohol, reported Shin Min Daily News. An eyewitness surnamed Deng said he saw two men in their 40s and 50s and a Trans-Cab driver being questioned by the police when he passed by a taxi stand near the OG department store in Chinatown at about 5.30pm last Saturday (June 22). «I believe they had a dispute, and someone called the police,» he added. «When I walked past [the area] again at 6pm, they had left.» According to the Chinese evening daily, nobody was injured, and the discourse was settled privately. A Trans-Cab spokesperson told Shin Min that the company regrets the unpleasant experience. They added that their drivers can only refuse service when they are changing shifts. It is an offence for taxi drivers to refuse to pick up passengers without valid reasons, according to a media reply by LTA in 2019.

'Next level stupidity': Cyclist crosses busy Ang Mo Kio road while light is green, gets hit by car

He may have been in a rush, but his haste could have cost him his life. A cyclist was knocked over by a car when he tried to cross a road in Ang Mo Kio while the traffic light was green, according to a video uploaded to SG Road Vigilante on Tuesday (June 25)
Singapore

'Next level stupidity': Cyclist crosses busy Ang Mo Kio road while light is green, gets hit by car

He may have been in a rush, but his haste could have cost him his life. A cyclist was knocked over by a car when he tried to cross a road in Ang Mo Kio while the traffic light was green, according to a video uploaded to SG Road Vigilante on Tuesday (June 25). In the video which was purportedly taken at 5.50pm on Tuesday, the cyclist attempts to cross the road from the right - heading towards Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park - just as the traffic light turned green for vehicles. Although he's fast enough to avoid traffic coming from his right, he fails to do the same for traffic from his left. Despite multiple cars having already driven through the pedestrian crossing, the cyclist tries his luck and tries to cycle straight through traffic. He gets past the car on the third lane, which slows down for him, but didn't have such luck for the driver on the fourth lane, who ends up driving straight into him. The cyclist is flipped on his side and thrown onto the car's windshield before he tumbles off the car's hood. His bicycle is sent flying a couple of metres away; a motorcyclist loses control of his bike on the wet road as a result.

Kenya's Ruto vows 'full' response after deadly anti-tax protests

Kenyan President William Ruto vowed to take a tough line against «violence and anarchy» on Tuesday, after protests against his government's proposed tax hikes turned deadly and demonstrators ransacked parliament. Mainly youth-led demonstrations h
Seychelles News Agency

Kenya's Ruto vows 'full' response after deadly anti-tax protests

Kenyan President William Ruto vowed to take a tough line against «violence and anarchy» on Tuesday, after protests against his government's proposed tax hikes turned deadly and demonstrators ransacked parliament. Mainly youth-led demonstrations had been largely peaceful as they grew over the past week but chaos erupted in Nairobi on Tuesday, with crowds throwing stones at police, pushing past barricades and entering the grounds of parliament. The military has been deployed to support police who fired tear gas, water cannon, rubber bullets and -- according to a rights group -- live ammunition against protesters. Five people were shot dead and 31 wounded, several NGOs including Amnesty Kenya reported in a joint statement. «We shall provide a full, effective and expeditious response to today's treasonous events,» Ruto told a press briefing in Nairobi, saying the demonstrations were «hijacked by dangerous people». It was inconceivable that «criminals pretending to be peaceful protesters can reign terror against the people, their elected representatives and the institutions established under our constitution and expect to go scot-free,» Ruto added. «I hereby put on notice the planners, financiers, orchestrators, abetters of violence and anarchy.» The United States appealed for calm and 13 Western nations -- including Canada, Germany and Britain -- said they were «especially shocked» by the scenes outside parliament. UN chief Antonio Guterres was «deeply concerned» by the violence and «saddened» by the reported deaths and injuries, his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. African Union Commission chief Moussa Faki Mahamat also expressed his «deep concern» and called on the country to refrain from further violence. - 'Unleashed brute force' - Outrage over proposed tax hikes and simmering anger over a cost-of-living crisis fuelled rapidly growing demonstrations that have caught the government off guard. «This is the voice of the young people of Kenya,» said Elizabeth Nyaberi, 26, a lawyer at a protest. «They are tear gassing us, but we don't care.» «We are here to speak for our generations and the generations to come,» she added. Amid the clashes, global web monitor NetBlocks reported that a «major disruption» had hit the country's internet service. In the aftermath of the parliament compound breach, local TV showed images of ransacked rooms with smashed windows, while cars parked outside were vandalised and flags destroyed, according to an AFP reporter. The governor's office in Nairobi City Hall -- just a few hundred metres from parliament -- was set alight, footage on privately owned Citizen TV showed, with a water cannon attempting to douse the fire. After reports that live ammunition was fired at protesters, Kenya's main opposition coalition, Azimio, said the government had «unleashed brute force on our country's children». «Kenya cannot afford to kill its children just because the children are asking for food, jobs and a listening ear,» it said in a statement. The military deployment was «in response to the security emergency» across Kenya, Defence Minister Aden Bare Duale said in a statement. Despite the heavy police presence, thousands of protesters had earlier marched peacefully through Nairobi's business district, many live-streaming the action as they sang and beat drums in their push towards parliament. Crowds also marched in the port city of Mombasa, the opposition bastion of Kisumu, and Ruto's stronghold of Eldoret, images on Kenyan TV channels showed. - Protesters 'abducted' - Amnesty International's Kenya chapter posted on X Tuesday that «the pattern of policing protests is deteriorating fast», urging the government to respect demonstrators' right to assembly. Rights watchdogs have also accused the authorities of abducting protesters. The Kenya Human Rights Commission said the abductions had mostly occurred at night and were «conducted by police officers in civilian clothes and unmarked cars», calling for the «unconditional release of all abductees». Police have not responded to AFP requests for comment on the allegations. The cash-strapped government agreed last week to roll back several tax increases. But it still intends to raise other taxes to fill the void left by the changes, including on fuel prices and export taxes, saying they are necessary for filling the state coffers and cutting reliance on external borrowing. Critics say the move will make life more expensive in a country already saddled with high inflation where well-paid jobs are out-of-reach for many young Kenyans. Kenya has one of the most dynamic economies in East Africa but a third of its 52 million people live in poverty. The country has a huge debt mountain whose servicing costs have ballooned because of a fall in the value of the local currency over the last two years, making interest payments on foreign-currency loans more expensive. After the government agreed to scrap levies on bread purchases, car ownership and financial and mobile services, the treasury warned of a budget shortfall of 200 billion shillings ($1.56 billion). © Agence France-Presse  

Julian Assange breaks down in tears as judge on US-controlled island declares him 'a free man' and sentences him to time served for espionage: Wikileaks founder released without supervision for the first time in 14 years

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has today pleaded guilty to a single espionage charge in a US federal court on the Pacific island of Saipan.
News | Mail Online
Get more results via ClueGoal