Ireland: Today's Latest News and Important Events

Diplomatic conflict between Israel and Ireland

In 2024 Israel decided to close its embassy in Dublin due to speaking out against atrocities committed against Palestinians by Ireland. According to the statement of Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this action was taken due to the anti-Israel policies of the Irish government, to recognize Palestine as a state and international legal support against the war in Gaza. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar took action against Israel on the Government of Ireland and was charged with questioning the legitimacy of the Jewish state. On this decision Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris expressed regret and said that his government will always stand by human rights and international law.

Ireland’s success in cricket

In October 2024, Ireland in the third ODI match defeated South Africa by 69 runs. Chasing the target of 285 runs all the team of South Africa defeated in 215 runs. From the Ireland side, Paul Stirling scored 88, Harry Tector 60, and Andy Balbirnie 45. And in balling Graham Hume and Craig Young took 3 wickets each. Although South Africa won the series 2-1, this victory of Ireland was appreciated.

Changes in immigration services

In January 2025, the Irish Immigration Service announced that residence permits for all other countries be transferred to the Department of Justice's Immigration Service Delivery (ISD). The main reason to take this step is to improve the delivery of immigration services and to simplify the process for the applicants.

Ireland's Recovery and Resilience Plan

In June 2024, the European Commission gave a positive review of Ireland's Revised Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), which includes the REPowerEU chapter. The main aim of this plan is to stabilize the economy of Ireland and the preparation to meet the challenges of the future.

Launch of online immigration portal in Ireland

Justice Minister Helen McEntee announced the launch of the Digital Contact Center (DCC) for the Immigration function in October 2024. The purpose of this new online portal is to digitize immigration-related services and to make the process easier and faster for applicants.

Citizenship ceremony in Ireland

It was announced that the next citizenship ceremony will be held on the 2nd and 3rd of December 2024. In these ceremonies, new citizens will be granted Irish citizenship and will be part of the diverse culture and society of the country.