Ailbhe Conneely

Social Affairs & Religion Correspondent

Referrals to Tusla increased to more than 96,600 in 2024

Tusla's social workers dealt with 96,666 child protection and welfare referrals last year which was a 5% increase on referrals in 2023.

Ireland • 09 Jul 25

Helen McEntee speaking at a press conference.

Commission's complex work spans years of societal change

The work that lies ahead for the Commission of Investigation into the Handling of Child Sexual Abuse in Schools is significant, complex and spans decades of huge societal changes in Ireland, writes Ailbhe Conneely.

Analysis and Comment • 08 Jul 25

Scale of investigation reflects 'deep impact on families'

The scale of the Commission of Investigation into allegations of historical sexual abuse in schools across the country reflects the thousands of lives affected and the deep impact on families and communities for generations, according to an organisation working with abuse survivors.

Ireland • 08 Jul 25

Minister for Education Helen McEntee announcing Commission of Investigationstanding at a podium with microphones

Groups involved in abuse to be held accountable - McEntee

Minister for Education Helen McEntee has said the religious groups involved in the abuse "will be held accountable".

Ireland • 08 Jul 25

40% of parents borrowed money to buy essentials - report

One third of parents went into arrears on energy bills due to insufficient income in the 12 months to April this year, according to Barnardos.

Ireland • 08 Jul 25

The HSE's Women's Health Service provides care and resources to patients, the majority of whom are victims of sexual exploitation

HSE clinic sees 43% rise in attendance by sex workers

A HSE clinic offering healthcare to women in the sex industry has seen attendance grow by 43% since it expanded GP services two years ago.

Health • 07 Jul 25

In the past 18 months, over 7,000 people with status have left IPAS accommodation

'No hope' of accommodation for those moving from IPAS

Two agencies providing services to asylum applicants who have been granted permission to remain in Ireland have called on the Minister for Housing and Minister for Justice to work together to prevent thousands more people ending up in homeless services in the coming weeks and months.

Ireland • 03 Jul 25

RTÉ News spoke to two women, including Suzanne, who received a letter to leave Direct Provision this time last year

600 families to be moved from IPAS centres, dept says

The Department of Justice has confirmed that 600 families with status to remain in Ireland will be moved from IPAS accommodation centres across the country in the coming months.

Ireland • 03 Jul 25

Br Kevin Crowley 'made invaluable contribution' to Dublin

President Michael D Higgins has led tributes to Brother Kevin Crowley, the founder of the Capuchin Day Centre in Dublin, who died aged 90.

Ireland • 02 Jul 25

Close Up Of Senior Woman At Home Using Walking Frame To Get Out Of Bed

Long-term care beds must increase by 60% by 2040 - ESRI

The number of long-term residential care beds and home support hours for older people will need to increase by at least 60% by 2040, according to the Economic and Social Research Institute.

Health • 30 Jun 25