Edwin Poots resignation
The Taoiseach has said that stability must be restored in Northern Ireland following the resignation of DUP leader Edwin Poots.
Mr Poots’ resignation, tendered only three weeks after he was ratified in the role, came after an angry party revolt against his decision to nominate a First Minister on Thursday.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin called for calm on Friday in the wake of the news.
“It will now be a matter for the Democratic Unionist Party in terms of, you know, electing a new leader,” he said.
“And then once that happens, I think we need steady engagement. There’s a need to restore stability yes, and that’s an obligation on the political leaders.
“We will do everything we possibly can in a constructive way to facilitate a stable outcome here.”
Calls for antigen testing for aviation
Fine Gael senator Regina Doherty has called on the Government to introduce antigen testing in the aviation sector.
The leader of the Seanad said she could not understand why antigen testing had not been employed at a “far greater and far faster rate” than it has been to date.
She added it is “imperative” a pilot antigen testing programme is rolled out in advance of international travel resuming on July 19th.
“We’ve been incredibly cautious as a country, and rightly so because we needed to mind ourselves and our people,” Ms Doherty said.
New Aer Lingus carry-on bag fee
Most Aer Lingus passengers can no longer take a free carry-on bag weighing up to 10kg on board with them, under changes to the airline’s baggage rules.
The new policy applies to flights within Europe, including to the United Kingdom, will come into force from June 29th.
It means passengers must now purchase priority boarding from €5.99 in order to take their carry-on bag on board.
Alternatively, passengers will still be able to take a 10kg bag with them free of charge, by dropping it off at check-in at the airport for it to be stored in the hold of the plane.
Those who fail to check in their bag will be charged a €35 fee to place it in the aircraft hold if they arrive at the boarding gate with it.
Family of teen killed in horse riding accident ask public to line cortège route
The family of a teenage girl who died in an accident at an equestrian centre during the week has asked that as many people as possible line the road to her home on Friday evening.
Fifteen-year-old Tiggy (Allegra) Hancock, from Corries House, Corries, Bagenalstown, Co Carlow died on Wednesday afternoon at the Greenogue Equestrian Centre, Rathcoole, Co Dublin.
The champion equestrian rider was rushed to Our Lady’s Hospital in Crumlin shortly after 2pm, but was pronounced dead a short time later.
Her cortège will travel via Ballinree, with the death notice on Rip.ie stating: “People are welcome to line the route while adhering to health (Covid-19) guidelines,” for their “beloved daughter” and “cherished sister”.
