The Environmental Protection Agency has warned that the level of raw sewage that is pumped into Ireland’s waterways every day is “unacceptable.”
The agency said untreated sewage from 36 towns and villages is released into the environment every day.
Half of the raw sewage comes from Arklow, Cobh and Kilmore Quay.
Wastewater treatment facilities at 21 of Ireland’s large towns and cities – including Dublin and Cork – did not meet EU standards.
The agency said repeated delays to the elimination of the problem are “unacceptable.”
***
A new study has warned that vaping may harm the brain, heart, blood vessels and lungs.
Researchers in Germany claim that chemicals produced during the vaping process may damage key blood vessels.
They found that vaping appears to speed up the heart rate and stiffen the inner lining of the arteries.
They have called for countries to consider banning the products for young people.
***
Economist are warning that actions will be needed to ensure workers outside Dublin and the east coast are not left behind by Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
The Nevin Economic Research Institute said moves to meet our climate obligations will hit agricultures, aviation, power generation and industry the hardest.
In its latest report it warns that many of these industries are most-heavily concentrated in the south-west, west and midlands.
It said the Government must invest in greener these areas to ensure workers can access jobs in the new green economy.
***
Independent TD Noel Grealish’s comments about immigrants sending money abroad have been labelled as "disappointing" and "shameful."
The Galway TD yesterday questioned whether money being sent from Ireland to Nigeria was being monitored.
His comments raised an angry response from fellow TD's, with the Galway Deputy being called a disgrace and a racist.
The Immigrant Council of Ireland has said it is “shameful” to see an elected representative target one group of immigrants for something that is an essential part of the migration process.
Spokesperson Teresa Buckzkowska said Irish people have been doing the same thing for generations.
***
First-time buyers in parts of Dublin are spending up to 40% of their income on their mortgage.
The finding is part of a new ESRI study which looked at the affordability of the national housing market.
It found the average buyer in Wicklow, Kildare and Meath also spend at least 30% of their monthly income on their home.
The study found a significant urban/rural divide in terms of pricing – with affordability challenges for first-time buyers, concentrated in urban markets.
