UNSIGNED PREVIEW — not a promoted public release.
Ireland
fallback_party_cf58e41b5e6c96b7 - promise_party_fallback
8 promises tracked from local public records
Kept/mostly kept: 0 | Broken/abandoned: 0 | In progress/constrained: 0 | Other: 8
No local coalition status recorded.
None recorded.
None recorded.
None recorded.
None recorded.
None recorded.
None recorded.
The Defence Forces High-Level Action Plan 'Building for the Future' defines the goal of developing full spectrum defence capabilities to protect Ireland and its people to an extent comparable to similar-sized countries in Europe (LOA 3). - source https://www.military.ie/media/4y0paecq/dd_hlap_2022_v10-digital.pdf - open
The Irish coalition government (Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, Green Party) formally agreed on July 28, 2022 to set the sectoral emissions ceiling for agriculture at a 25% reduction by 2030 compared to 2018 levels, with a binding carbon budget of 202 MtCO₂eq. - source https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jul/29/ireland-targets-25-cut-agriculture-emissions-farmers-anger - open
People Before Profit introduced the Eviction Ban 2022 bill, declaring a housing emergency for 12 months during which tenants could not be evicted without fault (except for anti-social behaviour or property damage). The bill included a clause for the Minister to extend the emergency ban. - source https://www.pbp.ie/people-before-profit-bill-to-extend-the-ban-on-evictions/ - open
A previous temporary eviction moratorium (winter 2022/2023) slowed the growth of homelessness, especially among children and families, according to analysis by the Simon Community. Around 2,700 notices to quit were paused before the ban lapsed in March 2023. - source https://www.simon.ie/how-effective-was-the-temporary-eviction-moratorium/ - open
In 2024, the government supported nearly 54,000 home energy upgrades through SEAI. Since 2019, 186,000 homes have benefited from more than €1.2 billion in government-funded home energy upgrade supports. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/press-releases/government-supported-nearly-54000-home-energy-upgrades-through-seai-in-2024/ - open
People Before Profit criticised the government's cost of living measures as 'woefully inadequate' and called for a €500 electricity credit funded by a levy on data centres. - source https://www.pbp.ie/cost-of-living-measures-woefully-inadequate/ - open
Paul Murphy TD advocated for a €500 universal energy credit and questioned why data centres pay half the price ordinary people pay for electricity. - source https://www.facebook.com/paulmurphytd/videos/make-the-data-centres-pay/4581190578860277/ - open
The School Transport 2030 review, published in early 2024, represents the most comprehensive assessment of the scheme since its establishment in 1967. It recommends phased implementation of changes including 14 pilot projects covering coordinated school opening times, flexible bus fleets, sustainable transport alternatives, and better integration of public transport with school bus services. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/dail/2025-09-23/11/ - open
The School Transport 2030 review recommended changes including expansion of current eligibility criteria (reducing distance thresholds from 3.2km to 1km for primary, 4.8km to 2km for post-primary) and addressing operational issues. These were to be phased in from September 2025. - source https://sinnfein.ie/news/ministers-failure-to-implement-recommendations-of-school-transport-review-will-deny-children-a-place-on-their-local-school-bus-darren-orourke-td/ - open
The Government published an Acute Inpatient Hospital Bed Expansion Plan in May 2024 targeting 4,367 acute hospital inpatient beds, including 3,352 new beds to be delivered through 2031. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/press-releases/government-announces-plan-for-delivery-of-4367-acute-hospital-beds/ - open
The Government published an Acute Inpatient Hospital Bed Expansion Plan targeting 4,367 acute hospital inpatient beds. The ESRI projects a need for 4,400-6,800 additional inpatient beds by 2040. - source https://www.medicalindependent.ie/in-the-news/breaking-news/government-announces-plan-for-delivery-of-over-4000-acute-hospital-beds/ - open
Cabinet approved the new NMH project to go to tender, with the building to be located on the eastern side of the St Vincent's campus. - source https://www.medicalindependent.ie/in-the-news/breaking-news/cabinet-approves-for-new-national-maternity-hospital-project-to-go-to-tender/ - open
The government announced the Acute Hospital Inpatient Bed Capacity Expansion Plan 2024–2031 on 29 May 2024, targeting 4,367 acute hospital beds (3,438 net new + 929 replacement) by 2031, described as the largest expansion of hospital bed capacity in decades. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/publications/acute-hospital-inpatient-bed-capacity-expansion-plan-2024-2031/ - open
The government's Programme for Government and the Acute Hospital Inpatient Bed Capacity Expansion Plan commit to increasing ICU bed capacity by at least a further 100 beds in subsequent phases, supported by the 2024–2031 expansion plan. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/press-releases/government-announces-plan-for-delivery-of-4367-acute-hospital-beds/ - open
The Acute Hospital Inpatient Bed Capacity Expansion Plan 2024–2031 was published on 29 May 2024 by then-Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly, targeting 4,367 acute hospital beds by 2031. It was described by the government as the largest planned expansion of public acute hospital inpatient capacity in decades. - source https://www.irishtimes.com/health/2024/05/29/almost-3000-new-acute-hospital-beds-to-be-delivered-by-2031-says-donnelly/ - open
Buildings emissions were up 16.7% in the first half of 2024 due to increased energy demand for homes, despite overall national emissions declining 2% in 2024. - source https://www.linkedin.com/posts/environmental-protection-agency-ireland_ghg-emissions-ireland-q2-2024-activity-7273298149866147840-qpwR - open
EPA data shows agricultural emissions decreased by 4.9% (1.07 Mt CO₂eq) in 2023 compared to 2022, but the cumulative reduction from the 2018 baseline was only 2.9% — far short of the 25% target needed by 2030. - source https://www.epa.ie/publications/monitoring--assessment/climate-change/air-emissions/EPA-Provisional-GHG-Report-Jul24-v6.pdf - open
Iarnród Éireann lodged a Railway Order application with An Bord Pleanála in July 2024 to seek permission to extend the electrified DART network from Malahide to Drogheda. - source https://www.nationaltransport.ie/news/dart-coastal-north-railway-order-application-lodged-with-an-bord-pleanala-to-bring-dart-to-drogheda/ - open
Minister for Finance Jack Chambers stated in his Budget 2025 speech: 'I am also announcing today, a cost of living package of €2.2 billion, which brings the total package for Budget 2025 to €10.5 billion.' The budget consisted of a net tax package of €1.4 billion, an expenditure package of €6.9 billion, and the cost of living package. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-finance/speeches/statement-by-minister-chambers-on-budget-2025/ - open
Citizens Information (official Irish government information service) confirmed: 'The Budget sets out an overall package of €10.5 billion. This is made up of a package of once-off measures worth €2 billion, total expenditure of €6.9 billion and additional capital expenditure of €1.6 billion and permanent tax changes of €1.4 billion for 2025.' - source https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/money-and-tax/budgets/budget-2025/ - open
The gov.ie official guide to Budget 2025 listed specific once-off cost of living supports: €250 electricity credits (2 x €125), €300 Fuel Allowance lump sum, €200 Living Alone Allowance lump sum, double month Child Benefit, €400 Working Family Payment lump sum, €100 Qualified Child Increment lump sum, two double weeks for all long-term weekly welfare schemes, €400 lump sum to selected welfare categories, and double payment of Foster Care Allowance. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-public-expenditure-infrastructure-public-service-reform-and-digitalisation/publications/your-guide-to-budget-2025/ - open
The Citizens Information Board's budget review confirmed the budget contained 'welfare and taxation measures amounting to over €10.5 billion, made up of once-off or lump sum payments (€2.2 billion) and recurring measures.' - source https://www.citizensinformationboard.ie/downloads/social_policy/submissions2024/CIB-budget%202025-review.pdf - open
Davy financial services confirmed the total Budget 2025 package was €10.5 billion, comprising a net tax package of €1.4 billion, an expenditure package of €6.9 billion, and a cost-of-living component of €2.2 billion. - source https://www.davy.ie/market-and-insights/insights/financial-planning-insights/2024/budget-2025-summary-and-key-changes.html - open
Budget 2025 announcement included plans to hire 1,000 Gardaí and up to 250 civilian staff in specialist roles, along with a €25m increase to the Garda overtime budget. - source https://www.thejournal.ie/national-security-budget-for-1000-extra-gardai-more-defence-spending-and-more-prison-officers-6501910-Oct2024/ - open
The DART+ South West project received statutory approval (Railway Order) from An Coimisiún Pleanála on 13 November 2024, but construction has been deferred to at least 2030. - source https://www.dartplus.ie/en-ie/projects/dart-south-west - open
David Cullinane TD (Sinn Féin) described a reported row-back on the Galway elective hospital as a 'major setback for Sláintecare reforms,' calling the elective-only hospitals the 'big game-changer' proposed in Sláintecare. - source https://sinnfein.ie/news/reported-row-back-on-galway-elective-hospital-a-major-setback-for-slaintecare-reforms-david-cullinane-td/ - open
The EPA's greenhouse gas projections indicate that built environment sector emissions are expected to decrease by approximately 23.9% by 2030 compared with 2018 — roughly half the 45% target. The built environment was the only sector that saw an emissions increase. - source https://www.climatecouncil.ie/councilpublications/annualreviewandreport/CCAC-AR2025-Built%2520Environment,%2520Industry%2520and%2520Waste-final.pdf - open
The Government approved Climate Action Plan 2025, reaffirming commitment to sectoral emissions ceilings including the built environment sector. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/press-releases/government-approves-climate-action-plan-2025/ - open
SEAI reported 11,910 home energy upgrades in Q1 2025, up 2% year-on-year. By early 2026, over 257,000 home energy upgrades had been delivered since 2019 with over €1.7 billion in government funding. - source https://www.seai.ie/news-and-events/news/11910-home-energy-upgrades-first-quarter-2025 - open
The 2025 Programme for Government pledges to ramp up targets to deliver more B2-equivalent home retrofits each year from 2026 to 2030. Meeting the 500,000 target will require an average annual retrofit of approximately 63,444 homes. - source https://www.energyireland.ie/halfway-to-2030-what-the-new-government-means-for-retrofitting/ - open
Ireland is reportedly falling behind on its goal to ensure 500,000 existing homes undergo deep energy efficiency upgrades by 2030, facing financial, structural, and policy-related barriers. - source https://news.myhome.ie/myhome-living/ireland-lagging-behind-on-retrofit-targets-37538 - open
EPA provisional figures show agriculture emissions decreased a further 1.7% in 2024 compared to 2023, driven by a 2.9% reduction in livestock numbers. - source https://www.agriland.ie/farming-news/epa-agriculture-ghg-emissions-down-1-7-in-2024/ - open
The government approved Climate Action Plan 2025, the third statutory update to implement measures toward the legally binding sectoral emissions ceilings including the 25% agriculture reduction target. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-climate-energy-and-the-environment/press-releases/government-approves-climate-action-plan-2025/ - open
Between 2020 and 2024, Ireland opened 1,218 new acute inpatient beds. However, only 143 acute beds were completed in 2025, and critics describe the pace of expansion as too slow. - source https://www.euractiv.com/news/ireland-investing-e1-59bn-in-health-but-labour-warns-of-snails-pace-bed-expansion/ - open
Only 12% uptake of free GP visit cards despite government expansion, with doctors warning that complex applications and patient doubts are preventing access. - source https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41704424.html - open
An Coimisiún Pleanála approved the Railway Order for the DART+ Coastal North project, granting planning permission to extend the electrified DART network from Malahide to Drogheda MacBride Station, covering 37 km of the Northern Line. - source https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/an-coimisiun-pleanala-approves-dart-coastal-north-railway-order/ - open
Jennifer Whitmore TD (Social Democrats) stated: 'We were promised electric DART carriages, first in 2025, then 2026, now 2029.' She expressed deep disappointment over continued delays to the battery-electric DART service for Wicklow. - source https://www.eastcoast.fm/news/wicklow-news/dart-extension-to-wicklow-town-facing-further-delay-until-2029/ - open
The Irish Independent reported that in 2019, the DART for Wicklow Town was announced as serving passengers by 2023-2024, with timeframes for 2025 and 2026 also missed, and the extension now pushed back to 2030. - source https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/news/dart-extension-to-wicklow-town-pushed-back-to-2030/a983333713.html - open
Sinn Féin TD John Brady echoed the complaint: 'We were promised electric DART carriages, first in 2025, then 2026, now 2029', criticising the government for failing Wicklow commuters. - source https://www.facebook.com/TeachtaJohnBrady/posts/wicklow-being-let-down-again-by-the-governmenti-am-deeply-frustrated-and-angry-a/1284495210151176/ - open
The HSE service plan pledges five additional surgical hubs in Cork, Waterford, Limerick, Galway, and North Dublin to open by end of 2025. Cork's surgical hub was expected to open between March and June 2025 and cater to 28,000 patients a year. - source https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41743272.html - open
The Programme for Government 2025, agreed between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael (with independent support), includes a headline commitment to increase hospital bed capacity by between 4,000 and 4,500 new and refurbished inpatient beds. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/2025/0115/1491065-detail-programme-for-government/ - open
CSO data showed housing completions in 2024 were 30,147, a decline from 32,695 in 2023, indicating that output growth has been uneven and not consistently ramping upward. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2026/0129/1555752-cso-housing-completions/ - open
The Programme for Government 2025 commits to building four new elective treatment centres in Cork, Dublin (2 sites), and Galway, plus establishing six surgical hubs. The Mount Carmel surgical hub in South Dublin opened in February 2025 and delivered 3,729 procedures — 24% above target — achieving a 74% reduction in day case waiting lists. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/publications/elective-hospitals/ - open
The HSE plans to open six surgical hubs across Ireland. When fully operational, each hub is targeted to deliver 4,000 extra day case procedures, 5,800 minor operations, and 18,500 outpatient appointments. The Mount Carmel hub (first to open) delivered 3,729 procedures in 2025, 24% above its target. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/2025/0213/1496589-surgical-hub-dublin/ - open
As of February 2025, 340 critical care beds had been delivered — an increase of 82 beds (31.7%) over the baseline. A further 12 critical care beds were funded and included in the National Service Plan 2025, targeting 352 critical care beds by end of 2025, completing Phase 1 of the ICU expansion. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2025-02-18/689/ - open
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill officially launched the HSE Health App on 25 February 2025. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/health/2025/0225/1498912-hse-app/ - open
The government approved next steps in the development of new Elective Hospitals in Cork, Galway, and Dublin as part of the Sláintecare plan. The Irish Times reported the plan as a €3.7 billion investment for the future of the healthcare system. Design and cost control tenders have been published for Cork and Galway, with final construction tenders expected in late 2026. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/press-releases/government-approves-next-steps-in-development-of-new-elective-hospitals/ - open
Sorca Clarke TD launched Sinn Féin's school transport plan which aims to deliver an additional 100,000 school bus places across the state to 'end the current chaos families face'. - source https://sinnfein.ie/news/sinn-fein-launch-proposals-to-fix-school-transport-chaos-sorca-clarke-td/ - open
Children under 8 in Ireland currently qualify for free GP visit cards. The Programme for Government commits to expanding free GP services to children up to at least age 12, with further extension kept under review. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2025-04-08/1002/ - open
Tenders were sought in 2024 for the new National Maternity Hospital — a seven-storey, 50,000m²+ building with 244 beds at Elm Park on the St Vincent's campus. Projected completion is late 2028 to early 2029, with costs potentially reaching €2 billion. - source https://www.irishtimes.com/health/2025/05/12/bill-for-new-national-maternity-hospital-could-reach-2-billion/ - open
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill published 'The Path to Universal Healthcare — Sláintecare 2025+' on 14 May 2025, setting out 23 projects and programmes across three strategic priority areas (Improving Access, Improving Service Quality, and Building System Capacity) to achieve universal, affordable, high-quality health and social care by 2027. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/press-releases/minister-for-health-publishes-the-path-to-universal-healthcare-sl%C3%A1intecare-programme-for-government-2025-sl%C3%A1intecare-2025/ - open
The Sláintecare 2025+ plan reaffirms the goal of achieving a universal, single-tier health and social care system providing equitable access based on need, not ability to pay. The plan covers 2025–2027 with 23 individual projects aimed at this transformation. - source https://www.imt.ie/news/minister-publishes-slaintecare-2025-plan-setting-out-government-priorities-14-05-2025/ - open
Final tender documents for the main construction programme of the Cork and Galway elective hospitals are expected in late 2026, with construction to follow. Business plans have not yet been completed, and there are reports of a potential scale-back of the Galway facility. - source https://www.drugsandalcohol.ie/43155/1/Path_to_Universal_Healthcare_Slaintecare__Programme_for_Gov_2025_V7_Web.pdf - open
EPA projections show Ireland is off track for 2030 climate targets, with total greenhouse gas emissions projected to reduce by only up to 23% (vs. the national 51% target), indicating significant shortfalls across sectors including the built environment. - source https://www.epa.ie/news-releases/news-releases-2025/epa-projections-show-ireland-off-track-for-2030-climate-targets.php - open
Tánaiste Simon Harris announced plans to accelerate Ireland's acquisition of defence capabilities, including force protection, artillery, and other critical materials. - source https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/politics/simon-harris-defence-materials-plan-35457803 - open
EPA projections show Ireland is off track for 2030 climate targets, with a maximum reduction of only 22% projected for the EU Effort Sharing Regulation target of 42%. Agriculture, one of the lowest-reducing sectors since 2018 at only -2.9%, has the furthest to go. - source https://www.epa.ie/news-releases/news-releases-2025/epa-projections-show-ireland-off-track-for-2030-climate-targets.php - open
Ciaran Cuffe criticised Transport Minister Darragh O'Brien for 'stalling on DART+ South West till 2030', calling it 'quite an own goal' and linking the delay to climate policy failures. - source https://www.facebook.com/CiaranCuffeDublin/posts/thats-quite-an-own-goal-by-transport-minister-darragh-obrien-to-delay-the-fingla/1233329105274439/ - open
Minister McEntee and Minister of State Moynihan published Education Plan 2025 on 19 June 2025, which included 'Improving school transport' as a committed action: conducting evaluation of pilot projects and commencing introduction of eTicketing to plan for an expanded scheme. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-education/press-releases/minister-mcentee-and-minister-of-state-moynihan-publish-education-plan-2025/ - open
Legislative changes in 2025/2026 now permit electronic record-keeping in community pharmacies, removing a key barrier to e-prescribing. Vendor procurement for the national ePrescribing solution was underway by mid-2025, with competitive dialogue following. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2025-06-26/337/ - open
Ireland's participation in SAFE will focus on acquiring artillery, cyber and air defence systems, as well as replacing the Army's fleet, aligning with broader European rearmament efforts. - source https://www.thejournal.ie/safe-security-action-for-europe-ireland-joins-tanaiste-simon-harris-6745196-Jun2025/ - open
The Climate Change Advisory Council's 2025 Annual Review stated that Ireland failed to achieve the targeted emission reductions during the first Carbon Budget period (2021–2025). - source https://www.climatecouncil.ie/news/press-release-annual-review-2025---cross-sectoral.html - open
The Programme for Government includes a commitment to expand free GP services to children up to at least 12 years. Children under 8 already have automatic free GP visits. Extension to ages 8-12 would cover approximately 200,000 additional children. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2025-07-03/359/ - open
Free GP care is currently available to all children under 8 in Ireland. The government plans to extend GP visit card eligibility to children aged 8 to 12 in 2026, covering approximately 200,000 additional children. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2025-07-03/359/ - open
Internal Department of Defence documents argued for a substantial funding rise, warning that the Department of Public Expenditure's financial offer would see military capabilities 'go backwards.' Simon Harris's notes revealed internal tensions over defence spending levels. - source https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/08/25/world-order-is-changing-department-of-defence-argued-for-substantial-funding-rise-harris-notes-reveal/ - open
Sinn Féin's Darren O'Rourke TD criticised the Minister's failure to implement the review's key recommendation that from September 2025 the distance criteria be reduced — this has not been implemented. - source https://sinnfein.ie/news/ministers-failure-to-implement-recommendations-of-school-transport-review-will-deny-children-a-place-on-their-local-school-bus-darren-orourke-td/ - open
An Oireachtas debate on 18 September 2025 described SAFE as an EU instrument providing up to €150 billion of loans backed by the EU to member states for defence procurement. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2025-09-18/65/ - open
The Commission on the Defence Forces recommended moving to Level of Ambition 3 (LOA 3), which provides for the development of full spectrum defence capabilities comparable to similar-sized European countries. The Programme for Government commits to moving to LOA 3 as quickly as possible. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2025-09-18/54/ - open
In the 2025/26 school year, almost 178,000 children were being transported daily — up from 120,000 in 2018, representing an almost 50% increase. The target is 260,000 pupils (an additional 100,000) by 2030. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/dail/2025-09-23/11/ - open
Investment in the school transport scheme more than doubled from €200 million in 2018 to €512 million in 2024. In 2024, a record 172,000 pupils travelled on the scheme. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/dail/2025-09-23/11/ - open
Minister McEntee stated in the Dáil that 14 pilot projects commenced in the 2024-2025 school year and are continuing for the 2025-2026 school year. These will be evaluated in full at the end of the 2025-2026 school year. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/dail/2025-09-23/11/ - open
Budget 2026 announced a record housing package of over €11 billion, with €7.21 billion in Exchequer funding (€5.19 billion capital + €2.02 billion current), a significant increase over previous years. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/press-releases/budget-2026-department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage-announces-record-budget-package-of-over-11-billion/ - open
Teagasc reported that EPA Q3 2025 quarterly figures showed agriculture sector emissions decreased 3.8% (184 kt CO₂eq) compared to the same period the previous year. - source https://teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/agricultural-greenhouse-gas-emissions-decrease-in-latest-epa-figures/ - open
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment launched a public consultation on Ireland's first National Life Sciences Strategy in October 2025. The Programme for Government 2025 includes a commitment to develop this strategy to ensure the sector remains competitive. - source https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/consultations/public-consultation-on-national-life-science-strategy.html - open
The public consultation was described as a 'once-in-a-generation policy opportunity' for Ireland's life sciences sector, with submissions from Ibec, AmCham, and other industry bodies. - source https://www.pharmaawards.ie/news/irelands-first-life-sciences-strategy-a-once-in-a-generation-policy-opportunity - open
Budget 2026 allocated over €69 million in additional permanent funding to the School Transport Scheme to meet rising demand, provide more places including for children with special educational needs, and cover rising operational costs. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2025-10-14/519/ - open
Budget 2026 investment in the School Transport Scheme will bring 170,000 students to and from school, with €69 million additional funding allocated. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/budget-2026/2025/1007/1537081-budget-2026-education/ - open
The government did not adopt PBP's proposal for a €500 credit, data centre levy, or extra week of social protection payments. Budget 2025 provided €250 in credits instead of €500, and Budget 2026 scrapped credits entirely. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/budget-2026/2025/1007/1537181-budget-2026-donohoe/ - open
Taoiseach Micheál Martin defended the Government's decision not to include energy credits in Budget 2026, stating that continued universal one-off credits were 'not sustainable' and would lead to energy companies raising prices. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/budget-2026/2025/1007/1537181-budget-2026-donohoe/ - open
Budget 2026 included no energy credits or broader cost-of-living package. Instead, it featured a targeted approach: the Fuel Allowance increased by €5/week to €38 (from January 2026), eligibility extended to those on Working Family Payment, and the 9% VAT rate on energy extended to end of 2030. - source https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/money-and-tax/budgets/budget-2026/ - open
The Journal reported that DART+ South West construction was originally hoped to begin in 2025/2026 but has been pushed out to at least 2030, described as a four-year delay that 'flies in the face' of climate and transport goals. - source https://www.thejournal.ie/dart-south-west-line-6886810-Nov2025/ - open
Capital funding of €1.7 billion was confirmed as allocated to the Defence Development Plan for the period 2026–2030 in an Oireachtas answer, an increase of €600 million. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2025-11-06/74/ - open
By November 2025, Harris indicated Ireland may draw on the €150 billion EU loan facility directly if domestic military funding proves insufficient to meet defence needs. - source https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/10/harris-promises-to-use-eu-loans-if-military-funding-is-not-forthcoming/ - open
The official gov.ie plan page describes the €275 billion National Development Plan investment over ten years as the largest infrastructure investment in the State's history, but does not specify a dedicated €28.2 billion housing figure. Annual housing budgets have been €7-8 billion (2024-2025) rising to €11 billion (2026). - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/campaigns/delivering-homes-building-communities-2025-2030-an-action-plan-on-housing-supply-and-targeting-homelessness/ - open
The Department of Transport funded a third fleet order for 100 new electric DART carriages in December 2025. Plans include deploying battery-electric DART carriages to Wicklow from around 2029 onwards. - source https://www.irishrail.ie/en-ie/news/third-order-of-new-dart-carriages-placed - open
Micheál Martin defended the decision not to give energy credits, arguing they would lead to energy companies inflating their prices. - source https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41723907.html - open
Minister for Defence Helen McEntee launched the Defence Sectoral National Development Plan 2026–2030, a record €1.7 billion capital investment plan for Defence, representing a 55% increase over previous allocations (an additional €600 million). - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-defence/press-releases/minister-for-defence-launches-17-billion-defence-sectoral-national-development-plan-20262030/ - open
The €1.7 billion plan includes military-grade radar (deployment starting in 2026), sonar systems for the naval service, up to a dozen helicopters, drone and anti-drone units, and upgraded armoured vehicles. - source https://www.politico.eu/article/ireland-unveils-euro-1-7-billion-plan-beef-up-weak-defenses/ - open
Close to €70 million of additional permanent funding was confirmed allocated to school transport services in December 2025 to provide for additional demand on the scheme. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2025-12-18/418/ - open
The Central Bank of Ireland stated it will be 'challenging' for the Government to meet its target of building 300,000 homes by the end of 2030, citing the required annual pace of approximately 50,000 homes per year versus current output levels. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2025/1219/1549711-housing-target-central-bank/ - open
December 31, 2025 was the deadline for private practice in public hospitals to cease for contract holders. The contract is described as a key step towards universal healthcare. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2026-02-26/569/ - open
The Government's 2025 Waiting List Action Plan targeted 50% of patients waiting less than Sláintecare targets (10 weeks outpatient, 12 weeks inpatient/day-case). By end of 2025, only 31.8% of outpatients and 41.2% of inpatients were within target — the goal was significantly missed. - source https://www.irishtimes.com/health/2026/01/09/health-service-failed-to-meet-goal-for-cuts-to-hospital-waiting-lists-in-2025/ - open
The Taoiseach ruled out a return of a ban on no-fault evictions, opposing the blanket approach proposed by Labour and other opposition parties. - source https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/taoiseach-rules-out-return-of-ban-on-no-fault-evictions/a266696317.html - open
PBP highlighted RTB data showing eviction notices increased by 41%, with nearly 60% of evictions occurring because landlords want to sell the property. PBP called the housing and homelessness crisis 'out of control'. - source https://www.pbp.ie/new-rtb-eviction-data-housing-and-homelessness-crisis-still-out-of-control-children-families-biggest-victims/ - open
The Defence Forces initially told the Gardaí they could not provide anti-drone security for multiple EU presidency meeting locations, highlighting capability gaps that the €19 million procurement is intended to address. - source https://www.msn.com/en-ie/news/world/defence-forces-tell-garda%C3%AD-they-cant-provide-anti-drone-security-for-eu-presidency-meetings/ar-AA1VAlic - open
The Minister for Health published the Waiting Time Action Plan 2026 targeting Sláintecare goals of 10 weeks for outpatient and 12 weeks for inpatient/day case. However, waiting lists grew by 86,300 patients in 2025. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/press-releases/minister-for-health-publishes-the-waiting-time-action-plan-2026/ - open
The Minister for Health published the Waiting Time Action Plan 2026, setting Sláintecare targets of 10 weeks for outpatient appointments and 12 weeks for inpatient/day case treatment. Long waits over 12 months fell 58% since 2021. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/press-releases/minister-for-health-publishes-the-waiting-time-action-plan-2026/ - open
The new National Maternity Hospital is now forecast to open in late 2028 to early 2029, according to the latest estimates. - source https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/new-national-maternity-hospital-due-late-2028-to-early-2029-as-health-officials-tell-of-lessons-learnt/a95230970.html - open
The IPU welcomed 2026 amendments to pharmacy legislation allowing prescriptions transmitted electronically to be retained in electronic form. - source https://ipu.ie/communication/ipu-welcomes-introduction-of-electronic-record-keeping-legislation-for-community-pharmacy/ - open
GP referral access (85% of referrals) is being added to the app, with specialist referrals planned for mid-2026. The Minister for Health welcomed growing adoption rates. - source https://www.imt.ie/news/hse-app-downloaded-over-200000-times-since-launch-06-01-2026/ - open
The December 2025 government press release stated the Government is committed to further reducing waiting times, 'targeting all patients to be seen within the Sláintecare target of 10 weeks for OPD and 12 weeks for IPDC and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (GI Scopes).' This remains a long-term target rather than one achieved in 2025. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/press-releases/monthly-waiting-list-figures-december-2025/ - open
Hospital waiting lists grew by 86,300 patients in 2025, with 7,540 adults and 510 children waiting 18 months or more — significantly breaching Sláintecare targets. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/health/2026/0112/1552566-hospital-waiting-lists/ - open
Cabinet approved the Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026, brought by Minister for Housing James Browne. The Bill proposed allowing landlords to reset rents to market rates for new tenancies from 1 March 2026, maintaining rent caps (inflation or 2%, whichever lower) for existing tenancies, introducing six-year tenancies of minimum duration, and banning no-fault evictions for tenants of landlords with four or more tenancies. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2026/0127/1555248-ireland-politics/ - open
Minister Browne stated the rent reset change is 'viewed as critical to retain existing landlords and to attract new investment' and that 'doing nothing is simply not an option'. RTÉ analysis noted the legislation 'radically alters the market for tenants and landlords' and that it 'is likely to result in a surge in rents for new leases'. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2026/0131/1556005-new-rent-rules-analysis/ - open
Sinn Féin housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin criticised the legislation: 'Given that the average length of a tenancy is three and a half years and 25% of tenancies registered annually are new tenancies, then within four to six years the vast majority of renters will be captured by this new rule and will be paying market rents.' He predicted 'unaffordable rents will be hiked even further' and pledged the legislation 'will be opposed tooth and nail'. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2026/0131/1556005-new-rent-rules-analysis/ - open
Large developers wrote to Minister Browne arguing the ban on no-fault evictions for landlords with 4+ tenancies 'would represent an unjust attack on the property rights of those with four tenancies or more'. The Irish Property Owners Association also called for the legislation's introduction to be delayed, noting that many small landlords have four tenancies in one house and would be categorised as large players subject to tighter eviction rules. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2026/0131/1556005-new-rent-rules-analysis/ - open
The Journal reported that housing officials within the Department of Housing raised major doubts about the achievability of the 300,000 homes target, noting the plan requires average annual completions of 50,000 homes — a near-doubling of current construction output. - source https://www.thejournal.ie/government-doubts-housing-target-300000-homes-2031-6962160-Feb2026/ - open
McEntee stated she was 'absolutely certain' the counter-drone technology would be operational in time for the EU presidency, responding to opposition questions about the timeline. - source https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/minister-certain-anti-drone-tech-in-place-for-eu-presidency-1864354.html - open
The Irish government is on target to provide a C-UAS during the EU presidency beginning July 2026, with efforts to procure the system and military radar ramped up. - source https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/ireland-set-for-improved-anti-drone-capability-before-mid-year-with-air-radar-on-track-for-this-year/ - open
The Dáil debated the Bill on 4 February and 11 February 2026. Opposition raised concerns that the ban on no-fault evictions for larger landlords would lead to landlords selling up and fleeing the market. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/dail/2026-02-04/18/ - open
People Before Profit representatives campaigned for and introduced a Bill in the Dáil for a three-year ban on no-fault evictions, led by figures including Richard Boyd Barrett TD and Mick Barry TD (Solidarity–People Before Profit). - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/dail/2026-02-11/25/ - open
In an Oireachtas debate on 17 February 2026, McEntee stated: 'With Ireland assuming the Presidency of the EU from July this year, I have prioritised the delivery of Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS).' - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2026-02-17/191/ - open
The Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026 was signed into law by the President. The official gov.ie press release states: provisions come into effect for new tenancies on or after 1 March 2026; existing tenancies unchanged; national system of rent control replacing RPZs; no-fault evictions 'significantly restricted'. Minister Browne stated the Act provides 'the most robust set of protections [tenants] have ever had'. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/press-releases/minister-james-browne-welcomes-enactment-of-residential-tenancies-miscellaneous-provisions-bill-2026/ - open
Citizens Information published detailed guidance confirming: from 1 March 2026, landlords of new tenancies can reset rent to market value when a tenant leaves voluntarily, breaks obligations, the property no longer meets needs, or the 6-year TMD ends. Landlords cannot reset rent after a no-fault eviction. For 'larger landlords' (4+ tenancies), no-fault evictions are banned entirely — they can only end tenancies if the tenant fails obligations or the property is no longer suitable. Smaller landlords (3 or fewer) retain additional grounds including hardship and family member use. - source https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/housing/renting-a-home/changes-to-the-rules-for-renting-from-march-2026/ - open
The RTB published official guidance: for new tenancies from 1 March 2026, landlords can set rent at market rates and can re-set to market rent once every 6 years. Rent increases during tenancies capped at inflation or 2%, whichever lower. Anti-eviction safeguard: landlords cannot reset rent after no-fault eviction within 2 years. - source https://rtb.ie/renting/setting-and-reviewing-private-rents-from-1-march-2026/ - open
A new four-year Framework Agreement was signed between the Irish Government and IPHA with a 180-day target for HSE reimbursement decisions. Ireland also struck new five-year drug pricing deals aimed at accelerating patient access to innovative treatments. - source https://www.euractiv.com/news/ireland-strikes-new-five%25E2%2580%2591year-drug-pricing-deals-speeding-access-to-medicines/ - open
36 tenants in Bridgetown/Hazelwood estate, Co. Wexford were served eviction notices days before the new rental rules took effect on 1 March 2026. Minister Browne denied the evictions were linked to the new rules. However, on 5 March 2026, leaked video footage showed the landlord's representative stating he was handing out eviction notices 'because of the new rental rules'. The RTB opened a formal investigation. - source https://www.socialdemocrats.ie/leaked-video-confirms-link-between-wexford-eviction-notices-and-new-rent-rules/ - open
Reuters reported that the initial earlier cut to excise duty of 15 cent per litre on petrol and 20 cent on diesel was part of a €250 million energy package, with the subsequent €505 million package layering additional 10 cent cuts on top, confirming the cumulative nature of the 27c/32c totals. - source https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/ireland-temporarily-cut-fuel-duty-235-million-euro-energy-package-2026-03-23/ - open
The National Children's Hospital has missed at least 18 planned completion deadlines. As of March 2026, the opening could be pushed to spring, summer, or even autumn 2027, with costs ballooning to approximately €2.2 billion. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/health/2026/0325/1565068-childrens-hospital-ireland/ - open
Children's Health Ireland (CHI) hospitals are seeing low uptake of the public-only consultant contract, suggesting uneven implementation across the hospital system. - source https://www.imt.ie/news/chi-hospitals-see-low-uptake-of-public-only-contracts-26-03-2026/ - open
The scaling up of delivery of homes is an absolute priority for this government. Today's plan sets out how we will build the homes people and communities across the country need between now and the end of 2030. - source src_search_20260410T0526 - open
Our 'Housing for All' policy is a plan which sets us on a pathway of delivering 300,000 new homes between now and 2030, an average of 33,000 per year. - source src_search_20260410T0526 - open
We will deliver 72,000 social homes to ensure those with a real need have access to a high quality, safe and secure home of their own. - source src_search_20260410T0526 - open
Over €9 billion capital funding for housing in 2026 alone. - source src_search_20260410T0526 - open
The State is making an unprecedented investment - €50 billion between exchequer and non-exchequer funding to Housing and Water infrastructure. - source src_search_20260410T0526 - open
€80 million in Exchequer funding for the First Home Scheme in 2025, matched by participating banks (€160 million total), to support the purchase of approximately 2,000 homes. - source src_search_20260410T0526 - open
€303 million made available for the delivery of homeless services in 2025. - source src_search_20260410T0526 - open
€90 million to support the retrofitting of approximately 2,500 local authority social homes to a Building Energy Rating of B2, as part of the Programme for Government commitment to retrofit 36,500 local authority homes by 2030. - source src_search_20260410T0526 - open
In April 2026, following an energy price spike linked to the Iran conflict, Martin outlined a targeted €250 million package of temporary excise cuts, diesel rebate reform, haulage support, and fuel allowance extension — but no return to universal energy credits. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-the-taoiseach/speeches/opening-remarks-of-taoiseach-miche%C3%A1l-martin-press-conference-government-buildings-sunday-12th-april-2026/ - open
The Irish Government announced a €505 million fuel support package on 12 April 2026, including a further 10 cent (VAT inclusive) reduction in excise on petrol (bringing total reduction to 27 cent/litre) and on diesel (bringing total reduction to 32 cent/litre), plus a €100 million Fuel Subsidy Support Scheme for farmers, agricultural contractors, and fishers. Announced by Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-the-taoiseach/press-releases/government-announces-new-package-of-fuel-supports/ - open
Critics labeled the €505 million package a 'panic package' intended to stall fuel protests rather than address root causes, with concerns that the measures were insufficient to address rising fuel costs in the longer term. - source https://europeanconservative.com/articles/news-corner/irish-government-unveils-e505m-panic-package-to-stall-fuel-protests/ - open
Minister Heydon announced details of the €100 million Fuel Subsidy Support Scheme: approximately 120,000 farmers and 1,500 full-time agricultural contractors eligible, with support rate of approximately 20 cents per litre (€200 per 1,000 litres), running from March to July 2026 with €20 million disbursed per month. Up to €5 million per month allocated for fishers, forestry, and specialist horticulture. - source https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-agriculture-food-and-the-marine/press-releases/minister-heydon-announces-further-details-of-the-100-million-fuel-support-schemes-for-farmers-contractors-and-fishers/ - open
An Oireachtas question on 14 April 2026 stated: 'It is proposed to expand access to the scheme so that an additional 100,000 pupils can be carried by 2030.' This confirms the target remains government policy. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2026-04-14/1231/ - open
The excise duty reductions took effect from midnight on 14 April 2026, with the total reductions confirmed at 27 cent/litre on petrol, 32 cent/litre on diesel, and 7.4 cent/litre on marked gas oil (green diesel). These reductions run until 31 July 2026. - source https://www.thejournal.ie/fuel-price-reductions-start-today-7012984-Apr2026/ - open
Fuel prices began to fall at Irish pumps following the excise cuts taking effect, with some stations reporting drops of up to 10 cent per litre, though the industry warned full reductions would take several days to filter through as older stock was sold. - source https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/04/15/fuel-prices-fall-in-many-places-as-excise-cuts-come-into-effect/ - open
The Oireachtas (Irish Parliament) officially recorded the total reduced excise amounts in a parliamentary question response: 32 cent per litre of diesel, 27 cent per litre of petrol, and 7.4 cent per litre of green diesel. - source https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2026-04-16/204/ - open
The National Children's Hospital has missed at least 18 planned completion dates and is roughly 4 years late. Costs have ballooned to approximately €2.2 billion. As of May 2026, the opening date remains uncertain. - source https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2026/0501/1571254-national-childrens-hospital/ - open
Ireland has among the lowest rates of access to new cancer medicines in Western Europe, and its drug reimbursement system has been called 'fundamentally broken' by deputies. - source https://www.euractiv.com/news/irelands-drug-reimbursement-system-fundamentally-broken-deputies-warn-as-patients-await-rare-disease-therapy/ - open