Paul Cunningham

Political Correspondent

Ministers Chambers and Donohoe wave to media ahead of budget speeches

Govt priorities underlined in money ministers' Budget

The political battle line was well drawn before Budget 2026 was even announced and nothing said by Ministers Donohoe and Chambers today changed that fact, writes Paul Cunningham.

Analysis and Comment • 2 hrs

Gavin removes video referencing Defence Forces call

Presidential candidate Jim Gavin has taken down a video from Instagram this morning in which he referenced receiving a call from a serving Defence Forces officer serving with UNIFIL in south Lebanon.

Presidential Election • 02 Oct

€2.5bn cost of living package in SF alternative budget

Sinn Féin has launched its alternative budget, entitled 'End The Rip-Off', which includes a €2.5 billion cost of living package.

Budget 2026 • 02 Oct

Minister recommends turning off location apps on mobiles

Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan has recommended that mobile phone users turn off any location apps to ensure that their data cannot be collected and then sold-on by criminal brokers.

Politics • 01 Oct

A view from Global Sumud Flotilla, which is an international initiative aimed at reaching the Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid

Motion calls on Israel not to target Gaza flotilla

The Dáil has heard a joint cross-party motion calling on Israel to adhere to international law and not target the 50 vessel peace flotilla attempting to break the aid blockade on Gaza.

Middle East • 30 Sep

Picture shows Harvey Morrison Sherratt, who had spina bifida and scoliosis.

Inquiry into CHI care will be 'effective', says Taoiseach

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said the Government will ensure that a promised inquiry into the care of spina bifida and scoliosis patients at Children's Health Ireland (CHI) is "effective" as well as being "transparent and public".

Health • 30 Sep

Tánaiste to update Cabinet on Troubles legacy agreement

Tánaiste Simon Harris will update Cabinet on the recent agreement with the UK on dealing with the legacy of Northern Ireland's Troubles, including a Government commitment to provide €25 million to support victims and families over the next three years

Politics • 30 Sep

Catherine Connolly, Heather Humphreys, Jim Gavin

7 takeaways from the first presidential debate

The first debate has come and gone and the dust is settling. But who will be happiest with their performance and has any candidate moved the dial? Here are 7 takeaways from tonight's debate from our Political Correspondent Paul Cunningham.

Analysis and Comment • 01 Oct

It is understood that his memorandum to Government is critical of the DAA, which is charged with operating and developing the airport

Minister to seek Cabinet approval to remove passenger cap

Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien is expected to seek Cabinet approval tomorrow to legislate for the removal of Dublin Airport's 32 million a year passenger cap.

Business • 29 Sep

TB cases in Ireland expected to hit 300 this year

The number of tuberculosis (TB) cases in Ireland is expected to hit 300 this year, the highest number since 2018.

Ireland • 25 Sep