Leo Varadkar, the prime minister of Ireland, has expressed regret for making a reference to the sex scandal involving former president Bill Clinton in a speech in front of a fresh batch&nbsp;of Capitol Hill interns.

Varadkar was describing his time as a D.C. intern at the end of Clinton's second term, "when some parents would have had cause for concern about what would happen to interns in Washington," to his Washington Ireland Programme audience. 
 
Varadkar is known for making off-script puns that occasionally blow up in his face, reported Politico.&nbsp;

His official spokesperson quickly apologised when the reference drew some gasps and laughter.

Varadkar, according to the spokesman said, “was reminiscing about his time in Washington D.C. as an intern 23 years ago. He made an ill-judged, off-the-cuff remark that he regrets. He apologises for any offense caused to anyone concerned.”

Accusations that Bill Clinton had lied under oath about having an affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky led to his impeachment in 1998 on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice.

Varadkar was sitting next to Hillary Clinton, the ex-secretary of state and wife of the former president, who he had just joined at a Georgetown University event, reported Politico.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Trump-Daniels hush money case nearing conclusion

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In the White House on Friday, he will meet President Biden for the customary "shamrock ceremony," which grants Irish government officials special access to the building on St. Patrick's Day every year.

In 2018, when Varadkar was in Washington for St. Patrick's Day celebrations, he made headlines in Ireland once more by claiming that he and then-President Donald Trump had assisted the hotel tycoon in delaying planning clearance for a wind farm next to his Irish golf resort, reported Politico. Varadkar acted fast to downplay his assertion that he advocated on Trump's behalf. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Leo Varadkar, the prime minister of Ireland, has expressed regret for making a reference to the sex scandal involving former president Bill Clinton in a speech in front of a fresh batch of Capitol Hill interns.

Leo Varadkar, the prime minister of Ireland, has expressed regret for making a reference to the sex scandal involving former president Bill Clinton in a speech in front of a fresh batch of Capitol Hill interns. Varadkar was describing his time as a D.C. intern at the end of Clinton's second term, "when some parents would have had cause for concern about what would happen to interns in Washington," to his Washington Ireland Programme audience. Varadkar is known for making off-script puns that occasionally blow up in his face, reported Politico. His official spokesperson quickly apologised when the reference drew some gasps and laughter. Varadkar, according to the spokesman said, “was reminiscing about his time in Washington D.C. as an intern 23 years ago. He made an ill-judged, off-the-cuff remark that he regrets. He apologises for any offense caused to anyone concerned.” Accusations that Bill Clinton had lied under oath about having an affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky led to his impeachment in 1998 on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice. Varadkar was sitting next to Hillary Clinton, the ex-secretary of state and wife of the former president, who he had just joined at a Georgetown University event, reported Politico. ALSO WATCH | Trump-Daniels hush money case nearing conclusion In the White House on Friday, he will meet President Biden for the customary "shamrock ceremony," which grants Irish government officials special access to the building on St. Patrick's Day every year. In 2018, when Varadkar was in Washington for St. Patrick's Day celebrations, he made headlines in Ireland once more by claiming that he and then-President Donald Trump had assisted the hotel tycoon in delaying planning clearance for a wind farm next to his Irish golf resort, reported Politico. Varadkar acted fast to downplay his assertion that he advocated on Trump's behalf. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Irish PM Varadkar apologises for ‘ill-judged’ Clinton-Lewinsky reference

Female employees at Facebook-parent Meta reportedly make less money than their men colleagues. A Business Insider reporter claims that the company's records on pay disparity in the UK and Ireland demonstrate that it continues to give women lower salaries and smaller incentives than it does to men.

In December 2022, Meta Ireland's Gender Pay Report was made public. According to the survey, there are about 3,000 women and 5,000 women, respectively, working at Meta offices in Ireland and the UK. This makes up for around 10 per cent of the company’s global workforce.

In 2022, the pay gap between men and women working at Meta in Ireland was 15.7 per cent. In Ireland, the gap in bonus pay was greater, with the average bonus for women being 43.3 per cent lower than for men.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-owned-tesla-under-investigation-after-steering-wheels-come-off-its-vehicles-while-driving-570126">Elon Musk’s Tesla under investigation amid plaints of steering wheel coming off while driving</a>

In comparison to Ireland, the pay disparity is less prominent in the UK. According to the survey, the typical Meta female employee in the nation made 2.1 per cent&nbsp;less money than the average male. Women received an average bonus that was 34.8 per cent&nbsp;less than what males received. The 2022 statistics are worse than the ones from 2018, as women at Facebook were paid on average 0.9 per cent&nbsp;less than males&nbsp;and their bonus compensation at the time was 40 per cent&nbsp;lower.

A Meta employee's base pay begins at about $150,000 ($12,279,523) per year, as Business Insider report. A woman working at Meta in Ireland may anticipate that a man&nbsp;will make nearly $23,000 more than her, according to Business Insider research. Although a woman in the UK makes about $3,000 less than a male co-worker.

Besides, another round of layoffs may be forthcoming in 2023&nbsp;as per a hint dropped by Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta.&nbsp;

“I just think we’ve entered somewhat of a phase change for the company," he said as per a report in The Verge. The CEO said that the company wants to increase decision-making efficiency by “flattening the organization structure and removing some layers of middle management to make decisions faster." 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Female employees at Facebook-parent Meta reportedly make less money than their men colleagues. A Business Insider reporter claims that the company's records on pay disparity in the UK and Ireland demonstrate that it continues to give women lower salaries and smaller incentives than it does to men.

Female employees at Facebook-parent Meta reportedly make less money than their men colleagues. A Business Insider reporter claims that the company's records on pay disparity in the UK and Ireland demonstrate that it continues to give women lower salaries and smaller incentives than it does to men. In December 2022, Meta Ireland's Gender Pay Report was made public. According to the survey, there are about 3,000 women and 5,000 women, respectively, working at Meta offices in Ireland and the UK. This makes up for around 10 per cent of the company’s global workforce. In 2022, the pay gap between men and women working at Meta in Ireland was 15.7 per cent. In Ireland, the gap in bonus pay was greater, with the average bonus for women being 43.3 per cent lower than for men. ALSO READ | Elon Musk’s Tesla under investigation amid plaints of steering wheel coming off while driving In comparison to Ireland, the pay disparity is less prominent in the UK. According to the survey, the typical Meta female employee in the nation made 2.1 per cent less money than the average male. Women received an average bonus that was 34.8 per cent less than what males received. The 2022 statistics are worse than the ones from 2018, as women at Facebook were paid on average 0.9 per cent less than males and their bonus compensation at the time was 40 per cent lower. A Meta employee's base pay begins at about $150,000 ($12,279,523) per year, as Business Insider report. A woman working at Meta in Ireland may anticipate that a man will make nearly $23,000 more than her, according to Business Insider research. Although a woman in the UK makes about $3,000 less than a male co-worker. Besides, another round of layoffs may be forthcoming in 2023 as per a hint dropped by Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta. “I just think we’ve entered somewhat of a phase change for the company," he said as per a report in The Verge. The CEO said that the company wants to increase decision-making efficiency by “flattening the organization structure and removing some layers of middle management to make decisions faster." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Meta’s gender pay gap: Women paid 15.7% less than men in 2022, says report

The United Kingdom and the European Union on Monday agreed to a revised 'Northern Ireland Protocol' governing trade between the region and Ireland. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hosted European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen for talks in London. Molly Gambhir explains.

Gravitas: U.K, E.U agree to new trade rules between Northern Ireland, Ireland

Stargazers are left in awe as Northern Lights brighten up skies across England, Ireland and Scotland.

In Pics | Stargazers awestruck as captivating Northern Lights gleam across Scotland, Ireland and England

M&amp;M’s are in the news and for a bizarre reason. The multi-coloured, bite-sized chocolates have been doing the rounds&nbsp;on&nbsp;Twitter after a man claimed to have found the biggest M&amp;M in the world. He shared his discovery on the social media platform and even the Guinness World Records couldn't resist reacting, as reported by India Today.

<meta charset="utf-8" />

The post was shared by a man named Fintan Walsh on Twitter. In the picture, Walsh could be seen holding a&nbsp;normal-sized, green-coloured M&amp;M and a humongous blue one as well.

<meta charset="utf-8" />

"Hi @GWR. I have the biggest M&amp;M in the world. What’s the next step for us?" he wrote in the caption of the post.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hi <a href="https://twitter.com/GWR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GWR</a> I have the biggest M&amp;M in the world. What’s the next step for us. <a href="https://t.co/IxczjqX4PJ">pic.twitter.com/IxczjqX4PJ</a>
— Fintan Walsh (@FintanWalsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/FintanWalsh/status/1626290145832968192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-man-uses-fake-names-to-donate-sperm-in-exchange-of-gifts-holidays-563975">Australian man uses fake names to donate sperm in exchange for gifts, holidays; fathers 60 children</a>

The Guinness World Records was quick to respond to Walsh's post on Twitter. They replied saying, "That's not an M&amp;M that's a boulder."

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that's not an M&amp;M that's a boulder <a href="https://t.co/6kIq1qbtJc">https://t.co/6kIq1qbtJc</a>
— Guinness World Records (@GWR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GWR/status/1626513785065295872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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M&amp;M, the mini, button-shaped candies were invented in 1941. Each M&amp;M has the letter "m" printed in lower case in white on one&nbsp;side.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/miracle-man-pulled-out-of-rubble-278-hours-after-turkey-earthquake-563288">Miracle! Man pulled out of rubble 278 hours after Turkey earthquake</a>

Last week, a man was&nbsp;conferred with the Guinness title for jumping and extinguishing 55 candles in one go.

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M&M’s are in the news and for a bizarre reason. The multi-coloured, bite-sized chocolates have been doing the rounds on Twitter after a man claimed to have found the biggest M&M in the world.

M&M’s are in the news and for a bizarre reason. The multi-coloured, bite-sized chocolates have been doing the rounds on Twitter after a man claimed to have found the biggest M&M in the world. He shared his discovery on the social media platform and even the Guinness World Records couldn't resist reacting, as reported by India Today. The post was shared by a man named Fintan Walsh on Twitter. In the picture, Walsh could be seen holding a normal-sized, green-coloured M&M and a humongous blue one as well. "Hi @GWR. I have the biggest M&M in the world. What’s the next step for us?" he wrote in the caption of the post. Hi @GWR I have the biggest M&M in the world. What’s the next step for us. pic.twitter.com/IxczjqX4PJ — Fintan Walsh (@FintanWalsh) February 16, 2023 × ALSO READ | Australian man uses fake names to donate sperm in exchange for gifts, holidays; fathers 60 children The Guinness World Records was quick to respond to Walsh's post on Twitter. They replied saying, "That's not an M&M that's a boulder." that's not an M&M that's a boulder https://t.co/6kIq1qbtJc — Guinness World Records (@GWR) February 17, 2023 × M&M, the mini, button-shaped candies were invented in 1941. Each M&M has the letter "m" printed in lower case in white on one side. ALSO READ | Miracle! Man pulled out of rubble 278 hours after Turkey earthquake Last week, a man was conferred with the Guinness title for jumping and extinguishing 55 candles in one go. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Man finds gigantic M&M candy, Guinness World Records responds

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visited northern Ireland to meet the leaders and this comes from its expectations that a deal on Northern Ireland's protocol could soon be struck.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visits Northern Island, meets Stormont leaders

Retail group Argos has said that as of the end of June this year, it would cease all business activities&nbsp;and close all its stores&nbsp;in the Republic of Ireland. Argos will start the process of progressively winding down its Irish operations. Customers can still visit Argos stores in the Republic of Ireland through June 24. Customers in Ireland won't be able to place purchases through Argos' home delivery service or use its website to pay for them after March 22. Customers will still be able to reserve items online and pay for them in-store till the moment of company closure, and orders placed before this date will be completed. Argos says the decision will result in the closure of 34 stores across Ireland.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is Argos closing Irish stores?&nbsp;</h2>

The company claimed that after giving the matter due thought and reviewing all of its activities and business in the nation, it finally made the choice. According to the company's statement, Argos determined that other areas of its business would benefit more from the expenditure needed to expand and modernise the Irish portion of its operations.

<h2>Will Argos compensate employees?&nbsp;</h2>

According to the company, Argos will present an increased redundancy package (advantages that a company offers to employees who lose their employment) which goes well beyond its statutory duties. It said the small number of colleagues not eligible for redundancy under Irish Law are expected to receive a one-off goodwill payment. Andy McClelland, Argos Ireland Operations Manager, said as with any major change to our business, the company have not made this decision lightly and will do everything it can to support those impacted.&nbsp;

<h2>How many employees are expected to lose their job?&nbsp;</h2>

With the closure of Irish stores by Argos, loss of 580 jobs is likely to take place.&nbsp;

<h2>Irish trade union, Mandate, expresses disappointment</h2>

Mandate, a trade union that advocates for Irish retail employees, voiced unhappiness with the decision. According to mandate official Michael Meegan, the union will work closely with the business to negotiate the best terms for the employees who will be laid off. He said that it is a difficult decision for Argos's staff in Ireland as they got the news that the company will be closing down in Ireland.

"Because Argos is shutting down its complete operation in Ireland this amounts to a collective redundancy which requires a 30-day consultation period and we know the company intends to honour that obligation to engage," he said. "We will be using this period to negotiate the best possible terms for those who are losing their jobs and we are expecting a constructive response from the company," he added.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Retail group Argos has said that as of the end of June this year, it would cease all business activities and close all its stores in the Republic of Ireland. Argos will start the process of progressively winding down its Irish operations.

Retail group Argos has said that as of the end of June this year, it would cease all business activities and close all its stores in the Republic of Ireland. Argos will start the process of progressively winding down its Irish operations. Customers can still visit Argos stores in the Republic of Ireland through June 24. Customers in Ireland won't be able to place purchases through Argos' home delivery service or use its website to pay for them after March 22. Customers will still be able to reserve items online and pay for them in-store till the moment of company closure, and orders placed before this date will be completed. Argos says the decision will result in the closure of 34 stores across Ireland. Why is Argos closing Irish stores? The company claimed that after giving the matter due thought and reviewing all of its activities and business in the nation, it finally made the choice. According to the company's statement, Argos determined that other areas of its business would benefit more from the expenditure needed to expand and modernise the Irish portion of its operations. Will Argos compensate employees? According to the company, Argos will present an increased redundancy package (advantages that a company offers to employees who lose their employment) which goes well beyond its statutory duties. It said the small number of colleagues not eligible for redundancy under Irish Law are expected to receive a one-off goodwill payment. Andy McClelland, Argos Ireland Operations Manager, said as with any major change to our business, the company have not made this decision lightly and will do everything it can to support those impacted. How many employees are expected to lose their job? With the closure of Irish stores by Argos, loss of 580 jobs is likely to take place. Irish trade union, Mandate, expresses disappointment Mandate, a trade union that advocates for Irish retail employees, voiced unhappiness with the decision. According to mandate official Michael Meegan, the union will work closely with the business to negotiate the best terms for the employees who will be laid off. He said that it is a difficult decision for Argos's staff in Ireland as they got the news that the company will be closing down in Ireland. "Because Argos is shutting down its complete operation in Ireland this amounts to a collective redundancy which requires a 30-day consultation period and we know the company intends to honour that obligation to engage," he said. "We will be using this period to negotiate the best possible terms for those who are losing their jobs and we are expecting a constructive response from the company," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Why is retail group Argos closing all its stores in Ireland?

Zimbabwe (ZIM) and Ireland (IRE) will face off on Saturday (January 14) in the second T20 match of the three-match series. Zimbabwe has a 1-0 lead in the T20 series after winning the first game by a margin of five wickets.

Zimbabwe (ZIM) and Ireland (IRE) will face off on Saturday (January 14) in the second T20 match of the three-match series. Zimbabwe has a 1-0 lead in the T20 series after winning the first game by a margin of five wickets. The hosts performed expertly and outplayed the Ireland team with both bat and ball. Zimbabwe would like to repeat its T20I performance from the first game in order to win the series. There were high expectations from Ireland's batsmen, but they could only post 114 runs. On a batting-friendly Harare pitch, players like Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie, and Lorcan Tucker were unable to put up their best performances. Zimbabwe (ZIM) vs Ireland (IRE) 2nd T20 match details The second T20 match between Zimbabwe (ZIM) and Ireland (IRE) will be played on Saturday, January 14. The match starts at 4:30 PM IST. The venue of the match is Harare Sports Club, Harare. The match will be live-streamed on Fancode. Where to watch Zimbabwe (ZIM) vs Ireland (IRE) 2nd T20 match? The three-match T20 series between Zimbabwe (ZIM) and Ireland (IRE) will be live-streamed on the Fancode application and website. The T20 Series between Zimbabwe and Ireland will also be streamed live on the Disney+ Hotstar website and app. Zimbabwe (ZIM) vs Ireland (IRE) T20 squad Zimbabwe T20I squad: Craig Ervine (C), Gary Ballance, Ryan Burl, Tendai Chatara, Bradley Evans, Luke Jongwe, Innocent Kaia, Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Richard Ngarava, Victor Nyauchi, Sean Williams Ireland T20I squad: Andy Balbirnie (C), Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Stephen Doheny, Fionn Hand, Graham Hume, Tyrone Kane, Barry McCarthy, Neil Rock, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White Zimbabwe (ZIM) vs Ireland (IRE) full schedule Date Match Venue Time(IST) GMT/Local Jan 12, Thu Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 1st T20I Harare Sports Club, Harare 4:30 PM 11:00 AM GMT / 01:00 PM LOCAL Jan 14, Sat Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 2nd T20I Harare Sports Club, Harare 4:30 PM 11:00 AM GMT / 01:00 PM LOCAL Jan 15, Sun Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 3rd T20I Harare Sports Club, Harare 4:30 PM 11:00 AM GMT / 01:00 PM LOCAL Jan 18, Wed Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 1st ODI Harare Sports Club, Harare 12:45 PM 07:15 AM GMT / 09:15 AM LOCAL Jan 20, Fri Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 2nd ODI Harare Sports Club, Harare 12:45 PM 07:15 AM GMT / 09:15 AM LOCAL Jan 23, Mon Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 3rd ODI Harare Sports Club, Harare 12:45 PM 07:15 AM GMT / 09:15 AM LOCAL

ZIM vs IRE 2nd T20 Live Streaming: When, where and how to watch Zimbabwe vs Ireland 2nd T20 live on TV, laptop

ZIM vs IRE 1st T20 Live Streaming: Zimbabwe (ZIM) will face Ireland (IRE) in the first Twenty20 International on January 12, Thursday. The three-match T20 series will provide both teams with an opportunity to build on their success at the T20 World Cup in 2024.

ZIM vs IRE 1st T20 Live Streaming: Zimbabwe (ZIM) will face Ireland (IRE) in the first Twenty20 International on January 12, Thursday. The three-match T20 series will provide both teams with an opportunity to build on their success at the T20 World Cup in 2024. Zimbabwe has an advantage because they are playing at home, but they are aware of Ireland's threat, especially in the T20 format. Ireland, their opponent, is also lacking in star power. Opener Paul Stirling has been granted permission to play in the ILT20, while pacer Josh Little will play in the inaugural SA20. Former England player Gary Balance will be the centre of attention as he returns to play for his birth country Zimbabwe. With talisman Sikandar Raza absent, Zimbabwe will be looking to Ballance to make significant contributions at the top. Zimbabwe (ZIM) vs Ireland (IRE) 1st T20 match details The first T20 match between Zimbabwe (ZIM) and Ireland (IRE) will be played on Thursday, January 12. The match starts at 4:30 PM IST. The venue of the match is Harare Sports Club, Harare. The match will be live-streamed on Fancode. Where to watch Zimbabwe (ZIM) vs Ireland (IRE) 1st T20 match? The three-match T20 series between Zimbabwe (ZIM) and Ireland (IRE) will be live-streamed on the Fancode application and website. The T20 Series between Zimbabwe and Ireland will also be streamed live on the Disney+ Hotstar website and app. Zimbabwe (ZIM) vs Ireland (IRE) T20 squad Zimbabwe T20I squad: Craig Ervine (C), Gary Ballance, Ryan Burl, Tendai Chatara, Bradley Evans, Luke Jongwe, Innocent Kaia, Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Richard Ngarava, Victor Nyauchi, Sean Williams Ireland T20I squad: Andy Balbirnie (C), Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Stephen Doheny, Fionn Hand, Graham Hume, Tyrone Kane, Barry McCarthy, Neil Rock, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White Zimbabwe (ZIM) vs Ireland (IRE) full schedule Date Match Venue Time(IST) GMT/Local Jan 12, Thu Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 1st T20I Harare Sports Club, Harare 4:30 PM 11:00 AM GMT / 01:00 PM LOCAL Jan 14, Sat Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 2nd T20I Harare Sports Club, Harare 4:30 PM 11:00 AM GMT / 01:00 PM LOCAL Jan 15, Sun Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 3rd T20I Harare Sports Club, Harare 4:30 PM 11:00 AM GMT / 01:00 PM LOCAL Jan 18, Wed Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 1st ODI Harare Sports Club, Harare 12:45 PM 07:15 AM GMT / 09:15 AM LOCAL Jan 20, Fri Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 2nd ODI Harare Sports Club, Harare 12:45 PM 07:15 AM GMT / 09:15 AM LOCAL Jan 23, Mon Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 3rd ODI Harare Sports Club, Harare 12:45 PM 07:15 AM GMT / 09:15 AM LOCAL

ZIM vs IRE 1st T20 Live Streaming: When, where and How to watch Zimbabwe vs Ireland 1st T20 live on TV, laptop

Regulators in the 27-nation bloc of the European Union fined Facebook parent firm Meta hundreds of millions of euros for privacy breaches on Wednesday and banned the company from persuading users to accept tailored advertisements based on their online behaviour.

In two incidents that might upend Meta's business model of targeting people with adverts based on what they do online, Ireland's Data Protection Commission levied two fines totalling 390 million euros ($414 million). The business claims to be appealing.

The European Union has some of the strongest privacy laws in the world, which have put pressure on Meta and other big tech corporations. Four further penalties totaling more than 900 million euros have already been levied against Meta by Irish regulators for data privacy violations since 2021, and several other lawsuits against other Silicon Valley businesses are still pending.

The EU antitrust regulators in Brussels who are stretching their muscles against digital companies are another regulatory worry for Meta: They charged the business with manipulating the classified ad market last month.

This month's end is when the third case regarding Meta's WhatsApp messaging service is anticipated to be resolved.

The Irish watchdog, which serves as Meta's lead European data privacy regulator due to the fact that its regional headquarters is in Dublin, fined the company 210 million euros for violating Facebook's EU data privacy rules and an additional 180 million euros for violating Instagram's EU data privacy rules.

The General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, the privacy regulations adopted by the 27-nation bloc in May 2018, is what led to the judgement.

Prior to this, Meta relied on users' informed consent to handle their personal data in order to deliver tailored or behavioural adverts to them that are based on their internet searches, the websites they visit, or the videos they watch.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Regulators in the 27-nation bloc of the European Union fined Facebook parent firm Meta hundreds of millions of euros for privacy breaches on Wednesday and banned the company from persuading users to accept tailored advertisements based on their online behaviour.

Regulators in the 27-nation bloc of the European Union fined Facebook parent firm Meta hundreds of millions of euros for privacy breaches on Wednesday and banned the company from persuading users to accept tailored advertisements based on their online behaviour. In two incidents that might upend Meta's business model of targeting people with adverts based on what they do online, Ireland's Data Protection Commission levied two fines totalling 390 million euros ($414 million). The business claims to be appealing. The European Union has some of the strongest privacy laws in the world, which have put pressure on Meta and other big tech corporations. Four further penalties totaling more than 900 million euros have already been levied against Meta by Irish regulators for data privacy violations since 2021, and several other lawsuits against other Silicon Valley businesses are still pending. The EU antitrust regulators in Brussels who are stretching their muscles against digital companies are another regulatory worry for Meta: They charged the business with manipulating the classified ad market last month. This month's end is when the third case regarding Meta's WhatsApp messaging service is anticipated to be resolved. The Irish watchdog, which serves as Meta's lead European data privacy regulator due to the fact that its regional headquarters is in Dublin, fined the company 210 million euros for violating Facebook's EU data privacy rules and an additional 180 million euros for violating Instagram's EU data privacy rules. The General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, the privacy regulations adopted by the 27-nation bloc in May 2018, is what led to the judgement. Prior to this, Meta relied on users' informed consent to handle their personal data in order to deliver tailored or behavioural adverts to them that are based on their internet searches, the websites they visit, or the videos they watch. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Meta hit with US$413 million fine over EU privacy breach

The home of Santa Claus is expecting to welcome a record number of visitors this month as tourism rebounds from the Covid pandemic. Now more than 63,000 people will travel to revenue in Lapland which is up from around 49,000 in December of 2021.

Ireland: Lapland expects 63,000 tourists for holiday season, witnesses a boom

Indian-origin Leo Varadkar takes over the role of Ireland's Taoiseach this weekend for the second time. Varadkar will&nbsp;become Ireland's prime minister after the handover of power between the two main political partners in the three-party governing coalition. Even in his second stint in the role, Varadkar is still one of Ireland's youngest-ever leaders.

Varadkar, who is mixed-race and openly gay, served as a deputy PM and on Saturday (December 17), a Cabinet reshuffle is scheduled to take place. The role of Taoiseach and Tánaiste will rotate between current premier Micheal Martin's Fianna Fail and 43-year-old Varadkar's Fine Gael.&nbsp;

After the 2020 elections, the leaders of centre-right parties agreed to the rotating premiership as part of a coalition with Ireland's Greens following.

Varadkar was seen as a fresh face when he took the helm of governing Fine Gael in 2017.&nbsp;But, after two-and-a-half years as the prime minister, some of the&nbsp;critics claimed that&nbsp;he has lost his shine. There was a misfire at the polls in 2020 and controversies marred hi reputation as deputy premier.&nbsp;

Ahead of taking the charge, Varadkar told Fine Gael politicians that he would want assurances from those he appoints as ministers that they will run in the next general election.&nbsp;

Local reports have indicated that there might be no major shake-up around the Cabinet table. Also, the role of junior ministers is where the biggest changes will be seen.&nbsp;

In addition to the switching of seats between Martin and Varadkar, reports have stated that the roles at the Departments of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform will also swap between Paschal Donohoe and Michael McGrath.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Indian-origin Leo Varadkar takes over the role of Ireland's Taoiseach this weekend for the second time. Varadkar will become Ireland's prime minister after the handover of power between the two main political partners in the three-party governing coalition.

Indian-origin Leo Varadkar takes over the role of Ireland's Taoiseach this weekend for the second time. Varadkar will become Ireland's prime minister after the handover of power between the two main political partners in the three-party governing coalition. Even in his second stint in the role, Varadkar is still one of Ireland's youngest-ever leaders. Varadkar, who is mixed-race and openly gay, served as a deputy PM and on Saturday (December 17), a Cabinet reshuffle is scheduled to take place. The role of Taoiseach and Tánaiste will rotate between current premier Micheal Martin's Fianna Fail and 43-year-old Varadkar's Fine Gael. After the 2020 elections, the leaders of centre-right parties agreed to the rotating premiership as part of a coalition with Ireland's Greens following. Varadkar was seen as a fresh face when he took the helm of governing Fine Gael in 2017. But, after two-and-a-half years as the prime minister, some of the critics claimed that he has lost his shine. There was a misfire at the polls in 2020 and controversies marred hi reputation as deputy premier. Ahead of taking the charge, Varadkar told Fine Gael politicians that he would want assurances from those he appoints as ministers that they will run in the next general election. Local reports have indicated that there might be no major shake-up around the Cabinet table. Also, the role of junior ministers is where the biggest changes will be seen. In addition to the switching of seats between Martin and Varadkar, reports have stated that the roles at the Departments of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform will also swap between Paschal Donohoe and Michael McGrath. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Leo Varadkar to become Irish prime minister for second time

A debate on the right to privacy has been triggered in Ireland over a video of deputy Prime Minister (Tánaiste) Leo Varadkar socialising in a gay nightclub in Dublin last week.&nbsp;The video, shared on multiple platforms, has garnered millions of views coupled with a widespread online debate. According to a report by the Guardian on Tuesday, mainstream media ignored the video. TikTok, which had earlier hosted the video of Varadkar, took it down.&nbsp;

This week, deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar told reporters that he did not wish to comment on the video. “Everyone makes errors in judgment. You wouldn’t be a human being if you didn’t” Varadkar, who had come out as gay back in 2015, said, the Guardian reported on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-explosions-reported-from-kyiv-following-drone-attack-says-mayor-542893">Ukraine defence shot down 13 kamikaze drones targeting Kyiv, claims Zelensky</a>

Micheál Martin, the Taoiseach and leader of the Fianna Fáil, condemned the filming of Varadkar in the nightclub branding it a breach of privacy. Varadkar and Martin are set to swap the Taoiseach and Tánaiste’s office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to the&nbsp;Newstalk, Martin said, 'Leo Varadkar’s life, my life, everyone’s private life is their private life and I do not in any way shape or form condone any breach of that privacy. I think it is wrong, in my view, to be breaching that privacy in terms of filming people in a social context.”

Last month, Sean Sheehy, a Catholic priest in Ireland stoked controversy by saying that Leo Varadkar and other gay politicians would go to hell. Sheehy's remarks drew widespread criticism.&nbsp;

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A debate on the right to privacy has been triggered in Ireland over a video of deputy Prime Minister (Tánaiste) Leo Varadkar socialising in a gay nightclub in Dublin last week.

A debate on the right to privacy has been triggered in Ireland over a video of deputy Prime Minister (Tánaiste) Leo Varadkar socialising in a gay nightclub in Dublin last week. The video, shared on multiple platforms, has garnered millions of views coupled with a widespread online debate. According to a report by the Guardian on Tuesday, mainstream media ignored the video. TikTok, which had earlier hosted the video of Varadkar, took it down. This week, deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar told reporters that he did not wish to comment on the video. “Everyone makes errors in judgment. You wouldn’t be a human being if you didn’t” Varadkar, who had come out as gay back in 2015, said, the Guardian reported on Tuesday. Also read | Ukraine defence shot down 13 kamikaze drones targeting Kyiv, claims Zelensky Micheál Martin, the Taoiseach and leader of the Fianna Fáil, condemned the filming of Varadkar in the nightclub branding it a breach of privacy. Varadkar and Martin are set to swap the Taoiseach and Tánaiste’s office. Speaking to the Newstalk, Martin said, 'Leo Varadkar’s life, my life, everyone’s private life is their private life and I do not in any way shape or form condone any breach of that privacy. I think it is wrong, in my view, to be breaching that privacy in terms of filming people in a social context.” Last month, Sean Sheehy, a Catholic priest in Ireland stoked controversy by saying that Leo Varadkar and other gay politicians would go to hell. Sheehy's remarks drew widespread criticism.

Deputy PM Leo Varadkar’s nightclub video triggers privacy debate in Ireland: Report

In a series of decisions, European Union’s privacy regulators have said that Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms’ Inc should not require users to agree to personalised advertisements based on their digital activity, said a report by the Wall Street Journal. This could affect the company’s access to sell such ads which also reportedly contribute a significant amount to Meta’s revenue.&nbsp;

The personalised advertisements in question are the ones that the social media platforms show tp their users based on their activity, clicks and what they watch within Meta’s own apps. Notably, Meta users can opt out of ads based on their activity on other websites and apps, a provision that has been in place for years but is not applicable for ads data based on user activity on its own platforms.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-parent-meta-threatens-to-remove-news-from-platform-if-us-passes-media-bill-540386">Facebook parent Meta threatens to remove news from platform if US passes media bill</a>

This comes after the European Union privacy regulators approved a series of decisions, in line with their privacy laws, which cannot be evaded by Meta using their terms of service as a justification, said a person familiar with the matter to the WSJ. However, the board’s ruling which was approved on Monday has not been made public yet.&nbsp;

According to the report, if users are allowed to opt out of such targeted ads, platforms like Facebook and Instagram would have less access to user information which is used to build these ads, and people close to the company say these ads contribute significantly to the platforms’ revenue.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-and-eu-held-meet-to-resolve-trade-tensions-between-them-540647">U.S. and EU held meet to resolve trade tensions between them</a>

Notably, the EU does not plan on directly ordering Meta to change its advertising practices, as it plans to call upon Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DCP) to issue public orders and levy significant fines which would be in line with its decision, said the WSJ report, citing people familiar with the matter. Ireland is also home to Meta’s headquarters in the 27-country bloc. &nbsp;

However, Meta can appeal the potential Irish as well as the EU decision which would at least lead to suspension of the potentially lengthy litigation, but if it is upheld the company would have to make changes to its practices.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/meta-warns-one-million-users-about-potential-data-leak-through-malicious-apps-523435">Meta warns one million users about potential data leak through malicious apps</a>

Meta’s spokesperson told the WSJ, that EU law could allow for other legal justifications for its advertising practices and that it is too early to speculate since this is not the final decision. “We’ve engaged fully with the DPC on their inquiries and will continue to engage with them as they finalise their decision,” said the spokesperson. &nbsp; 
 
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In a series of decisions, European Union’s privacy regulators have said that Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms’ Inc should not require users to agree to personalised advertisements based on their digital activity, said a report by the Wall Street Journal.

In a series of decisions, European Union’s privacy regulators have said that Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms’ Inc should not require users to agree to personalised advertisements based on their digital activity, said a report by the Wall Street Journal. This could affect the company’s access to sell such ads which also reportedly contribute a significant amount to Meta’s revenue. The personalised advertisements in question are the ones that the social media platforms show tp their users based on their activity, clicks and what they watch within Meta’s own apps. Notably, Meta users can opt out of ads based on their activity on other websites and apps, a provision that has been in place for years but is not applicable for ads data based on user activity on its own platforms. ALSO READ | Facebook parent Meta threatens to remove news from platform if US passes media bill This comes after the European Union privacy regulators approved a series of decisions, in line with their privacy laws, which cannot be evaded by Meta using their terms of service as a justification, said a person familiar with the matter to the WSJ. However, the board’s ruling which was approved on Monday has not been made public yet. According to the report, if users are allowed to opt out of such targeted ads, platforms like Facebook and Instagram would have less access to user information which is used to build these ads, and people close to the company say these ads contribute significantly to the platforms’ revenue. ALSO WATCH | U.S. and EU held meet to resolve trade tensions between them Notably, the EU does not plan on directly ordering Meta to change its advertising practices, as it plans to call upon Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DCP) to issue public orders and levy significant fines which would be in line with its decision, said the WSJ report, citing people familiar with the matter. Ireland is also home to Meta’s headquarters in the 27-country bloc. However, Meta can appeal the potential Irish as well as the EU decision which would at least lead to suspension of the potentially lengthy litigation, but if it is upheld the company would have to make changes to its practices. ALSO READ | Meta warns one million users about potential data leak through malicious apps Meta’s spokesperson told the WSJ, that EU law could allow for other legal justifications for its advertising practices and that it is too early to speculate since this is not the final decision. “We’ve engaged fully with the DPC on their inquiries and will continue to engage with them as they finalise their decision,” said the spokesperson. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Meta’s targeted advertisements could face restrictions in the EU: Report

A substantial number of wealthy Chinese people are now reportedly seeking an Irish residency under Ireland's Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP).

Different narratives credit different reasons behind this rise in numbers. As per the Times, uncertainty about China's future under President Xi Jinping and his Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has caused this application jump.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Operates 100 secret police stations globally

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However, as per Irish Times, the applications surged amid a rumour that the so-called cash-for-visa was being scrapped.

As per the Irish times, the number of Chinese citizens applying under the scheme has gone up exponentially; between January and September, the number stood at 785, almost three times 243 applications.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-surveillance-camera-firm-advertises-racial-profiling-technology-in-uk-540121">Chinese surveillance camera firm advertises racial profiling technology in UK</a>

In September, companies that handle IIP applications on behalf of wealthy Chinese reported a 50 per cent rise in the applications. Times reports that a crackdown on the Chinese elite was the catalyst behind this.

IIP allows people outside European Economic Area (EEA) i.e., EU, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein to gain residency rights in lieu of investments worth €1 million ($1.05 million).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-services-activity-shrank-to-six-month-lows-in-november-caixin-pmi-540062">China services activity shrank to six-month lows in November: Caixin PMI</a>

The said investment must be done for a period of three years in an approved Irish company or investment fund, borrowed money cannot be used. Additionally, the applicants must have at least €2 million ($2.1 million) in personal wealth.

Apart from the above-mentioned €1 million&nbsp;($1.05 million) investment, a minimum investment of €2 million&nbsp;($2.1 million) in Irish real estate investment trusts is allowed, as well as €500,000 endowments for education, arts, sport, health or culture.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A substantial number of wealthy Chinese people are now reportedly seeking an Irish residency under Ireland's Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP). Different narratives credit different reasons behind this rise in numbers.

A substantial number of wealthy Chinese people are now reportedly seeking an Irish residency under Ireland's Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP). Different narratives credit different reasons behind this rise in numbers. As per the Times, uncertainty about China's future under President Xi Jinping and his Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has caused this application jump. Watch | China: Operates 100 secret police stations globally However, as per Irish Times, the applications surged amid a rumour that the so-called cash-for-visa was being scrapped. As per the Irish times, the number of Chinese citizens applying under the scheme has gone up exponentially; between January and September, the number stood at 785, almost three times 243 applications. Also read | Chinese surveillance camera firm advertises racial profiling technology in UK In September, companies that handle IIP applications on behalf of wealthy Chinese reported a 50 per cent rise in the applications. Times reports that a crackdown on the Chinese elite was the catalyst behind this. IIP allows people outside European Economic Area (EEA) i.e., EU, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein to gain residency rights in lieu of investments worth €1 million ($1.05 million). Also read | China services activity shrank to six-month lows in November: Caixin PMI The said investment must be done for a period of three years in an approved Irish company or investment fund, borrowed money cannot be used. Additionally, the applicants must have at least €2 million ($2.1 million) in personal wealth. Apart from the above-mentioned €1 million ($1.05 million) investment, a minimum investment of €2 million ($2.1 million) in Irish real estate investment trusts is allowed, as well as €500,000 endowments for education, arts, sport, health or culture. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China's wealthy increasingly apply for Irish residency under cash-for-visa scheme. What's driving them away?

In Ireland, comments by a priest have caused an uproar. Father Seán Sheehy said that gay politicians like Leo Varadkar "will go to hell". Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Irish priest says gay politicians "will go to hell"

A Catholic priest in Ireland has kicked off a controversy after repeatedly stating that Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar and other gay politicians would go to hell. Sean Sheehy, the 65-year-old priest, has made these allegations from pulpit as well as in media interviews. Opinions of the priest have drawn widespread criticism and has even led to his bishop distancing himself from the views.

Sheehy delivered a homily at St Mary's church in his native County Kerry. He expressed his strong views. Many people reportedly walked out of the church

Raymond Browne, the bishop of Kerry, apologised. He said that Sheehy's opinions didn't “represent the Christian position”.

However, even after bishop's apology, Sheehy repeated his views in radio interviews. &nbsp;He was asked whether he thought Varadkar and other politicians would go to hell, he replied,"Absolutely"

“You had an agenda that was really being pushed and the sad point about it is that the hierarchy was mute: they never educated the people at all,” he told RTE’s Liveline, according to a report in The Guardian&nbsp;

Sheehy claimed that media, politicians and even the Catholic church had misled people in order to win approval for same-sex marriage and abortion rights.

The priest is facing criticism. Some people are calling him ultra-orthodox while others are pointing at Sheehy's 42-years service in USA during culture wars as a reason for his views.

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A Catholic priest in Ireland has kicked off a controversy after repeatedly stating that Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar and other gay politicians would go to hell.

A Catholic priest in Ireland has kicked off a controversy after repeatedly stating that Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar and other gay politicians would go to hell. Sean Sheehy, the 65-year-old priest, has made these allegations from pulpit as well as in media interviews. Opinions of the priest have drawn widespread criticism and has even led to his bishop distancing himself from the views. Sheehy delivered a homily at St Mary's church in his native County Kerry. He expressed his strong views. Many people reportedly walked out of the church Raymond Browne, the bishop of Kerry, apologised. He said that Sheehy's opinions didn't “represent the Christian position”. However, even after bishop's apology, Sheehy repeated his views in radio interviews. He was asked whether he thought Varadkar and other politicians would go to hell, he replied,"Absolutely" “You had an agenda that was really being pushed and the sad point about it is that the hierarchy was mute: they never educated the people at all,” he told RTE’s Liveline, according to a report in The Guardian Sheehy claimed that media, politicians and even the Catholic church had misled people in order to win approval for same-sex marriage and abortion rights. The priest is facing criticism. Some people are calling him ultra-orthodox while others are pointing at Sheehy's 42-years service in USA during culture wars as a reason for his views. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Irish priest says former PM Varadkar and other gay leaders will go to hell

The T20 World Cup 2022 edition's qualifying round has seen plenty of drama and action. On Thursday (October 20), Sri Lanka defeated the Netherlands by 16 runs to enter the Super 12 round whereas Namibia's loss to the UAE in their last face-off resulted in the Dutch line-up also progressing ahead, into the main draw of the competition. While Sri Lanka joins Pool A, the Netherlands will now be a part of Team India-starrer Pool B.

Two more teams will now join the main draw of the tournament on Friday (October 21). Group B, from the qualifiers, has become a congested one with all four teams -- West Indies, Zimbabwe, Scotland and Ireland -- tied with two points each. The equation is simple for all of them. The winner of the West Indies-Ireland tie and Scotland-Zimbabwe match will progress ahead; with the group toppers joining Pool B whereas the other will join Australia-starrer Pool A.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-asian-champions-sri-lanka-beat-netherlands-by-16-runs-to-enter-super-12-round-527013">T20 World Cup: Asian champions Sri Lanka beat Netherlands by 16 runs to enter Super 12 round</a>

Here's the qualification scenario explained for Group B teams for Super 12

The winner of West Indies-Ireland and Scotland-Zimbabwe will make it to the Super 12 stage. In case both the games are washed out due to rain, with the forecast not looking encouraging in Geelong on Friday, current table-toppers Scotland and Zimbabwe will qualify. If the Zimbabwe-Scotland game is abandoned and the other match is completed, then the winner of West Indies-Ireland will enter Pool B whereas Scotland will proceed to Pool A in the Super 12.

On the other hand, if the Scotland-Zimbabwe game produces a winner and the other encounter is abandoned, then the former match's winner will end as group toppers and go through along with West Indies.

Hence, everything is at stake for all four teams in Group B. It is set to be a memorable end to the qualifiers, which has provided wholesome entertainment for spectators and viewers across the globe.

The T20 World Cup 2022 edition's qualifying round has seen plenty of drama and action. On Thursday (October 20), Sri Lanka defeated the Netherlands by 16 runs to enter the Super 12 round whereas Namibia's loss to the UAE in their last face-off resulted in the Dutch line-up also progressing ahead, into the main draw of the competition.

The T20 World Cup 2022 edition's qualifying round has seen plenty of drama and action. On Thursday (October 20), Sri Lanka defeated the Netherlands by 16 runs to enter the Super 12 round whereas Namibia's loss to the UAE in their last face-off resulted in the Dutch line-up also progressing ahead, into the main draw of the competition. While Sri Lanka joins Pool A, the Netherlands will now be a part of Team India-starrer Pool B. Two more teams will now join the main draw of the tournament on Friday (October 21). Group B, from the qualifiers, has become a congested one with all four teams -- West Indies, Zimbabwe, Scotland and Ireland -- tied with two points each. The equation is simple for all of them. The winner of the West Indies-Ireland tie and Scotland-Zimbabwe match will progress ahead; with the group toppers joining Pool B whereas the other will join Australia-starrer Pool A. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Asian champions Sri Lanka beat Netherlands by 16 runs to enter Super 12 round Here's the qualification scenario explained for Group B teams for Super 12 The winner of West Indies-Ireland and Scotland-Zimbabwe will make it to the Super 12 stage. In case both the games are washed out due to rain, with the forecast not looking encouraging in Geelong on Friday, current table-toppers Scotland and Zimbabwe will qualify. If the Zimbabwe-Scotland game is abandoned and the other match is completed, then the winner of West Indies-Ireland will enter Pool B whereas Scotland will proceed to Pool A in the Super 12. On the other hand, if the Scotland-Zimbabwe game produces a winner and the other encounter is abandoned, then the former match's winner will end as group toppers and go through along with West Indies. Hence, everything is at stake for all four teams in Group B. It is set to be a memorable end to the qualifiers, which has provided wholesome entertainment for spectators and viewers across the globe.

T20 World Cup 2022: Which two teams will enter Super 12? Here's group B qualification scenario

In a tragic incident, ten people, including two teenagers and a younger girl, were killed in an explosion at a petrol station in the Irish county of Donegal.

10 people killed in Ireland petrol station explosion

As per reports, the Biden Administration in the US is readying itself to shell out hundreds of thousands of dollars for legal battles against subpoenas it is expecting on its mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic, the army withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the Hunter Biden saga. In other news, in an effort to limit China's ability to purchase and produce advanced electronics with military applications, the United States announced a sweeping set of export controls on Friday, in response Beijing has lashed out and called the rules "malicious".

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-shelling-265000-to-protect-itself-from-legal-troubles-523664">Biden administration splurging $265,000 to protect itself from legal troubles</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/25/298604-wion-news-images.png" />

If reports are to be believed, the White House will&nbsp;shell out as much as $265,000 in salaries to fend off the legal battles coming its way.&nbsp;According to a New York Post report, the Joe Biden administration is expecting a flurry of subpoenas as the opposition targets the government for its mishandling of the Covid pandemic, the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the Hunter Biden saga.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-responds-angrily-after-us-announces-chip-export-restrictions-523659">China responds angrily after US announces chip export restrictions</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/01/19/124834-untitled-design-2020-01-19t145719803.jpg" />

A day after the US announced sweeping export controls on advanced, high-performance computing chips, China has lashed out and criticised Washington for its malicious block.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-carries-out-fresh-test-fires-two-ballistic-missiles-reports-523658">North Korea carries out fresh test, fires two ballistic missiles: Reports</a>

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South Korea's military said that North Korea fired two ballistic missiles in early hours on Sunday (local time). This is the latest in a series of launches from North Korea amid tensions over US-led military exercises.&nbsp;The South Korean military's joint chiefs of staff announced the launches from the southeast of the country -- the seventh and eighth in two weeks -- without giving further details.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usa-abortion-ban-halted-in-ohio-and-arizona-523663">USA: Abortion ban halted in Ohio and Arizona</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/15/295941-abortion.jpg" />

In what comes as a minuscule victory for pro-abortion activists, courts in the US states of Ohio and Arizona on Friday halted abortion bans.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Iran: Demonstrations enter their fourth week; schoolgirls at the forefront of protests

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As per reports, the Biden Administration in the US is readying itself to shell out hundreds of thousands of dollars for legal battles against subpoenas it is expecting on its mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic, the army withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the Hunter Biden saga.

As per reports, the Biden Administration in the US is readying itself to shell out hundreds of thousands of dollars for legal battles against subpoenas it is expecting on its mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic, the army withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the Hunter Biden saga. In other news, in an effort to limit China's ability to purchase and produce advanced electronics with military applications, the United States announced a sweeping set of export controls on Friday, in response Beijing has lashed out and called the rules "malicious". Click on the headlines to read more: Biden administration splurging $265,000 to protect itself from legal troubles If reports are to be believed, the White House will shell out as much as $265,000 in salaries to fend off the legal battles coming its way. According to a New York Post report, the Joe Biden administration is expecting a flurry of subpoenas as the opposition targets the government for its mishandling of the Covid pandemic, the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the Hunter Biden saga. China responds angrily after US announces chip export restrictions A day after the US announced sweeping export controls on advanced, high-performance computing chips, China has lashed out and criticised Washington for its malicious block. North Korea carries out fresh test, fires two ballistic missiles: Reports South Korea's military said that North Korea fired two ballistic missiles in early hours on Sunday (local time). This is the latest in a series of launches from North Korea amid tensions over US-led military exercises. The South Korean military's joint chiefs of staff announced the launches from the southeast of the country -- the seventh and eighth in two weeks -- without giving further details. USA: Abortion ban halted in Ohio and Arizona In what comes as a minuscule victory for pro-abortion activists, courts in the US states of Ohio and Arizona on Friday halted abortion bans. Watch | Iran: Demonstrations enter their fourth week; schoolgirls at the forefront of protests

Morning news brief: North Korean missile test, Biden administration's legal troubles, and more

In the latest,&nbsp;Iran has claimed that Mahsa Amini died of illness rather than beatings in custody. On the Russia-Ukraine war front, Zelensky has urged all nations to act collectively and stop Russia's nuclear threats. Furthermore, an Irish service station has been devastated in a blast that killed three.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-mahsa-amini-died-of-illness-rather-than-blows-523453">Iran claims Mahsa Amini died of illness rather than 'blows'</a>

<img alt="mahsa " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2cad0d67-25e1-496d-8162-e6d931798c83" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/220916125802-01-mahsa-amini.jpg" />

Amini, 22, passed away on September 16—three days after going into a coma as a result of being detained by Tehran's morality police for allegedly violating the Islamic Republic's stringent dress regulations for women. She had been accused of breaking the dress code.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-world-must-act-now-to-stop-russia-nuclear-threat-says-zelensky-523472">Ukraine war: 'World must act now to stop Russia nuclear threat,' says Zelensky</a>

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Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, claims that Russian authorities have started to "prepare their society" for the potential use of nuclear weapons, but he also stated that he does not think Russia is prepared to use them.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irish-service-station-destroyed-by-devastating-blast-three-killed-523481">Irish service station destroyed by 'devastating' blast; three killed</a>

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WATCH |&nbsp;Uvalde school district suspends its police department over May mass shooting

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WATCH |&nbsp;Elon Musk offers proposal to resolve China-Taiwan tensions

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In the latest, Iran has claimed that Mahsa Amini died of illness rather than beatings in custody. On the Russia-Ukraine war front, Zelensky has urged all nations to act collectively and stop Russia's nuclear threats.

In the latest, Iran has claimed that Mahsa Amini died of illness rather than beatings in custody. On the Russia-Ukraine war front, Zelensky has urged all nations to act collectively and stop Russia's nuclear threats. Furthermore, an Irish service station has been devastated in a blast that killed three. Click on the headlines to read more: Iran claims Mahsa Amini died of illness rather than 'blows' Amini, 22, passed away on September 16—three days after going into a coma as a result of being detained by Tehran's morality police for allegedly violating the Islamic Republic's stringent dress regulations for women. She had been accused of breaking the dress code. Ukraine war: 'World must act now to stop Russia nuclear threat,' says Zelensky Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, claims that Russian authorities have started to "prepare their society" for the potential use of nuclear weapons, but he also stated that he does not think Russia is prepared to use them. Irish service station destroyed by 'devastating' blast; three killed WATCH | Uvalde school district suspends its police department over May mass shooting WATCH | Elon Musk offers proposal to resolve China-Taiwan tensions

Morning news brief: Irish service station devastated in a blast killing three & more

An explosion at a gas station in County Donegal, Ireland, on Friday resulted in the death&nbsp;of nine individuals, while rescuers continued their search for survivors far into the night.

The incident was described as "a terrible explosion&nbsp;in a very busy location" by Sinn Fein lawmaker Pearse Doherty. Police said they were not yet in a position to provide any information on casualties and did not address the cause of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russian-missile-destroys-apartment-block-in-zaporizhzhia-kills-one-woman-523005">explosion</a> in a statement that was released late on Friday.

The injured were taken by ferry to Letterkenny University Hospital, which announced that the incident had set off a major emergency protocol and that it was currently dealing with a large number of injured patients.

Around 25 kilometres (16 miles) from the town of Letterkenny, in the vicinity of the village of Creeslough, the explosion occurred at an Applegreen gas station shortly after 3 p.m. local time.

The forecourt, where numerous automobiles were parked, had rubble spread across it. Photos from the site revealed a residential apartment above the gas station's store with walls blown out and a partially collapsed roof.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-blast-hits-mosque-near-afghan-interior-ministry-522717">Kabul: At least four killed, 20 injured in blast at mosque near Afghan interior ministry</a>

A professional rescue crew was dispatched to the location from adjacent Northern Ireland, according to the Irish Coast Guard, and its nearby helicopter helped the emergency services.

According to Doherty, the "huge explosion" could be heard for miles around. Hours later, Doherty claimed, people were still trapped inside the structure, albeit some had made contact with the outside emergency services.

"Everyone is hoping for the best but this is a devastating explosion, it's ripped right through this building and this was a very busy location at that point in time," he told national broadcaster RTE from the scene.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An explosion at a gas station in County Donegal, Ireland, on Friday resulted in the death of nine individuals, while rescuers continued their search for survivors far into the night.

An explosion at a gas station in County Donegal, Ireland, on Friday resulted in the death of nine individuals, while rescuers continued their search for survivors far into the night. The incident was described as "a terrible explosion in a very busy location" by Sinn Fein lawmaker Pearse Doherty. Police said they were not yet in a position to provide any information on casualties and did not address the cause of the explosion in a statement that was released late on Friday. The injured were taken by ferry to Letterkenny University Hospital, which announced that the incident had set off a major emergency protocol and that it was currently dealing with a large number of injured patients. Around 25 kilometres (16 miles) from the town of Letterkenny, in the vicinity of the village of Creeslough, the explosion occurred at an Applegreen gas station shortly after 3 p.m. local time. The forecourt, where numerous automobiles were parked, had rubble spread across it. Photos from the site revealed a residential apartment above the gas station's store with walls blown out and a partially collapsed roof. Also read | Kabul: At least four killed, 20 injured in blast at mosque near Afghan interior ministry A professional rescue crew was dispatched to the location from adjacent Northern Ireland, according to the Irish Coast Guard, and its nearby helicopter helped the emergency services. According to Doherty, the "huge explosion" could be heard for miles around. Hours later, Doherty claimed, people were still trapped inside the structure, albeit some had made contact with the outside emergency services. "Everyone is hoping for the best but this is a devastating explosion, it's ripped right through this building and this was a very busy location at that point in time," he told national broadcaster RTE from the scene. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Massive explosion at gas station in Ireland leaves nine dead, search on for survivors

Snehan, a fourteen-year-old boy from India is the youngest in the world to swim in the North Channel, the strait between Northern Ireland and south-western Scotland. He performed the feat as part of a six-member team from India that crossed the 35km strait in a relay format. The independent team from India, comprising of three para swimmers and three able-bodied swimmers swam across the strait starting from 6:30 am and completed the swim by 9:09 pm.&nbsp;

Notably, the North Channel is among the Ocean's Seven or the list of seven marathon open water swims. The most challenging factor of swimming across the North Channel is that even the summer temperature of the water is around 12 to 15 degrees Centigrade. Swimming across such waters for a long duration requires special acclimatization and training, over and above the experience of marathon open water swimming.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/video?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#video</a> of Snehan swimming in the chilly waters of the North channel, under supervision of his coach Dr. Vijay kumar. He’s in waters infested with poisonous jelly fish, small sharks etc. he’s self motivated as he’s earlier done 60kms at palk strait &amp; next aim is <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/English?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#English</a> channel <a href="https://t.co/jxyY4TU19R">https://t.co/jxyY4TU19R</a> <a href="https://t.co/osf8yxOOaT">pic.twitter.com/osf8yxOOaT</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1575505921668976640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Starting from Robbie Island (Northern Ireland), the Indian relay team took turns and swam to Port Patrick (Scotland), covering the 35km distance in a duration of 14 hours and 34 minutes. Being a challenging stretch to swim across, only the most experienced and confident swimmers take up this challenge and 14-year-old Snehan was just that, says his coach Vijaykumar. 
 
In terms of the special training undertaken to get used to the cold water, Snehan and the team had reached Europe weeks in advance and started training for nearly four hours a day in the open waters.&nbsp;

Recalling his protege's feats, Dr M. Vijaykumar, Swimming Coach, SDAT, told WION that Snehan had earlier swam the 60km back and forth distance between two points along the Palk Strait - Dhanushkodi In Tamil Nadu and Talaimannar in Sri Lanka, within 19 hours and 45 minutes. He also confidently added that the next task in Snehan's sight is to swim across the English Channel.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/n-korea-fires-third-ballistic-missile-this-week-hours-after-harris-left-s-korea-520928">N Korea fires third ballistic missile this week, hours after Harris leaves from S Korea</a>

Speaking to WION, Snehan said that he started swimming at the age of eight and then graduated to open water sea swimming and bagged Gold at the National Sea Swimming event at Goa and later swam back and forth across the Palk Strait. Outlining the challenges he faced in his latest adventure, he said that it was the risk of encountering poisonous jellyfish, small sharks, and seals. To avoid any mishaps, the swimmers had to apply ocean grease to keep their skin safe from the abrasion caused by sea swimming.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

Snehan, a fourteen-year-old boy from India is the youngest in the world to swim in the North Channel, the strait between Northern Ireland and south-western Scotland.

Snehan, a fourteen-year-old boy from India is the youngest in the world to swim in the North Channel, the strait between Northern Ireland and south-western Scotland. He performed the feat as part of a six-member team from India that crossed the 35km strait in a relay format. The independent team from India, comprising of three para swimmers and three able-bodied swimmers swam across the strait starting from 6:30 am and completed the swim by 9:09 pm. Notably, the North Channel is among the Ocean's Seven or the list of seven marathon open water swims. The most challenging factor of swimming across the North Channel is that even the summer temperature of the water is around 12 to 15 degrees Centigrade. Swimming across such waters for a long duration requires special acclimatization and training, over and above the experience of marathon open water swimming. #video of Snehan swimming in the chilly waters of the North channel, under supervision of his coach Dr. Vijay kumar. He’s in waters infested with poisonous jelly fish, small sharks etc. he’s self motivated as he’s earlier done 60kms at palk strait & next aim is #English channel https://t.co/jxyY4TU19R pic.twitter.com/osf8yxOOaT — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) September 29, 2022 × Starting from Robbie Island (Northern Ireland), the Indian relay team took turns and swam to Port Patrick (Scotland), covering the 35km distance in a duration of 14 hours and 34 minutes. Being a challenging stretch to swim across, only the most experienced and confident swimmers take up this challenge and 14-year-old Snehan was just that, says his coach Vijaykumar. In terms of the special training undertaken to get used to the cold water, Snehan and the team had reached Europe weeks in advance and started training for nearly four hours a day in the open waters. Recalling his protege's feats, Dr M. Vijaykumar, Swimming Coach, SDAT, told WION that Snehan had earlier swam the 60km back and forth distance between two points along the Palk Strait - Dhanushkodi In Tamil Nadu and Talaimannar in Sri Lanka, within 19 hours and 45 minutes. He also confidently added that the next task in Snehan's sight is to swim across the English Channel. Also Read: N Korea fires third ballistic missile this week, hours after Harris leaves from S Korea Speaking to WION, Snehan said that he started swimming at the age of eight and then graduated to open water sea swimming and bagged Gold at the National Sea Swimming event at Goa and later swam back and forth across the Palk Strait. Outlining the challenges he faced in his latest adventure, he said that it was the risk of encountering poisonous jellyfish, small sharks, and seals. To avoid any mishaps, the swimmers had to apply ocean grease to keep their skin safe from the abrasion caused by sea swimming.

Indian teen youngest in the world to swim in North Channel between Ireland & Scotland

In Ireland, doctors removed 55 AA and AAA batteries from a woman's gut and stomach after she swallowed them in a deliberate act of self-harm.

According to a report published by the Irish Medical Journal on Thursday, the 66-year-old woman was getting treated at St. Vincent's University Hospital in Dublin after devouring an initially "unknown number" of cylindrical batteries, reports Science Alert

The doctor in their report said that this was the highest reported number of "batteries ingested at a single point in time."

The case perplexed the doctors as several reports published in medical journals mentioned instances of a child swallowing small, button-style batteries.&nbsp;

"The deliberate ingestion of multiple large AA batteries as a form of deliberate self-harm is an unusual presentation," the doctors reported.

In the most common cases of battery ingestion among kids, the batteries can sometimes pass through a child's body without causing damage. However, if they get stuck in the throat, they can cause severe and even life-threatening injuries, according to UCSF's Benioff Children's Hospitals.

This is because saliva kick-starts an electric current in the trapped batteries, spurring a chemical reaction that can burn the esophagus and can lead to severe tissue damage and bleeding.

"The potential of cylindrical batteries to result in acute surgical emergencies should not be underestimated," the case report states.

In the woman's case, an X-ray revealed that the batteries in her abdomen did not appear to be obstructing her gastrointestinal (GI) tract and no batteries showed signs of structural damage.

After a week of observation, the doctors performed laparotomy on the woman, in which surgeons made an incision to access her abdominal cavity. They found that the stomach, pulled down by the weight of the batteries, had become distended and stretched into the area above the pubic bone

They then cut a small hole in the stomach and removed the batteries from the organ.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Ireland, doctors removed 55 AA and AAA batteries from a woman's gut and stomach after she swallowed them in a deliberate act of self-harm. According to a report published by the Irish Medical Journal on Thursday, the 66-year-old woman was getting treated at St.

In Ireland, doctors removed 55 AA and AAA batteries from a woman's gut and stomach after she swallowed them in a deliberate act of self-harm. According to a report published by the Irish Medical Journal on Thursday, the 66-year-old woman was getting treated at St. Vincent's University Hospital in Dublin after devouring an initially "unknown number" of cylindrical batteries, reports Science Alert The doctor in their report said that this was the highest reported number of "batteries ingested at a single point in time." The case perplexed the doctors as several reports published in medical journals mentioned instances of a child swallowing small, button-style batteries. "The deliberate ingestion of multiple large AA batteries as a form of deliberate self-harm is an unusual presentation," the doctors reported. In the most common cases of battery ingestion among kids, the batteries can sometimes pass through a child's body without causing damage. However, if they get stuck in the throat, they can cause severe and even life-threatening injuries, according to UCSF's Benioff Children's Hospitals. This is because saliva kick-starts an electric current in the trapped batteries, spurring a chemical reaction that can burn the esophagus and can lead to severe tissue damage and bleeding. "The potential of cylindrical batteries to result in acute surgical emergencies should not be underestimated," the case report states. In the woman's case, an X-ray revealed that the batteries in her abdomen did not appear to be obstructing her gastrointestinal (GI) tract and no batteries showed signs of structural damage. After a week of observation, the doctors performed laparotomy on the woman, in which surgeons made an incision to access her abdominal cavity. They found that the stomach, pulled down by the weight of the batteries, had become distended and stretched into the area above the pubic bone They then cut a small hole in the stomach and removed the batteries from the organ. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ireland doctors remove 'highest' 55 batteries from woman's gut and stomach

Northern Ireland loyalists laid flowers by a huge mural of a young Queen Elizabeth II, looking back at what they saw as a glorious past, and forward to what they feared was an uncertain future.

Queen Elizabeth II Updates: Northern Ireland loyalists in mourning as they fear uncertain future

Ireland's data privacy watchdog has levied a record 405 million euro (USD 402 million) fine against social media platform Instagram after an investigation into its handling of children's data. A spokesperson for Meta, Instagram's parent company, has said that it plans to appeal against the ruling, said Reuters.

The investigation began in 2020, and found that teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 were allowed to operate business accounts. This facilitated publication of the user's phone number and email address.

"We adopted our final decision last Friday and it does contain a fine of 405 million euro," said the spokesperson for Ireland's Data Protection Commissioner (DPC), the lead regulator of Instagram's parent company Meta Platforms Inc.

Full details of the decision will be published next week, he said.

Instagram updated its settings over a year ago and has since released new features to keep teens safe and their information private, the Meta spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said that Instagram disagreed with the way the fine was calculated.

The DPC regulates Facebook, Apple, Google and other technology giants due to the location of their EU headquarters in Ireland. It has opened over a dozen investigations into Meta companies, including Facebook and WhatsApp.

WhatsApp was last year fined a record 225 million euros for failing to conform with EU data rules in 2018.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Ireland's data privacy watchdog has levied a record 405 million euro (USD 402 million) fine against social media platform Instagram after an investigation into its handling of children's data.

Ireland's data privacy watchdog has levied a record 405 million euro (USD 402 million) fine against social media platform Instagram after an investigation into its handling of children's data. A spokesperson for Meta, Instagram's parent company, has said that it plans to appeal against the ruling, said Reuters. The investigation began in 2020, and found that teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 were allowed to operate business accounts. This facilitated publication of the user's phone number and email address. "We adopted our final decision last Friday and it does contain a fine of 405 million euro," said the spokesperson for Ireland's Data Protection Commissioner (DPC), the lead regulator of Instagram's parent company Meta Platforms Inc. Full details of the decision will be published next week, he said. Instagram updated its settings over a year ago and has since released new features to keep teens safe and their information private, the Meta spokesperson said. The spokesperson said that Instagram disagreed with the way the fine was calculated. The DPC regulates Facebook, Apple, Google and other technology giants due to the location of their EU headquarters in Ireland. It has opened over a dozen investigations into Meta companies, including Facebook and WhatsApp. WhatsApp was last year fined a record 225 million euros for failing to conform with EU data rules in 2018. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ireland: Instagram slapped USD 400 million fine over children's data

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) will ban transgender women from female contact rugby competitions for the upcoming season after carrying out a review of its transgender policy, the governing body said on Wednesday. The IRFU said the decision was based on medical and scientific evidence and is in line with World Rugby guidance. From this season, only players recorded as female at birth will be allowed to play contact rugby in the women`s category.

The change in policy will affect two registered players in the country. The IRFU said it has held discussions with them to provide options for remaining active in the sport, such as in tag or touch rugby, refereeing, coaching, and volunteering.

"The IRFU is keenly aware that this is a sensitive and challenging area for those involved and the wider LGBT+ community and will continue to work with those impacted, providing support to ensure their ongoing involvement with the game," the statement read. Transgender players whose sex recorded at birth is female can continue to compete in the male category if they provide written consent and a risk assessment is carried out, the IRFU added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-commonwealth-games-2022-conclude-with-glittery-closing-ceremony-in-birmingham-505080#alexander-stadium-in-birmingham-hosted-the-cwg-2022-closing-ceremony-505057">In pics - Commonwealth Games 2022 concludes with glittery closing ceremony in Birmingham</a>

Anne Marie Hughes, spirit of rugby manager with the IRFU, said some people may be disappointed by the change in policy but it was "based solely on new research related to safety". World Rugby last year banned transgender players from competing at the elite level of the women`s game, citing safety concerns. In July, England`s governing body (RFU) voted to restrict transgender women from playing in domestic games.

World Athletics and FIFA are among a number of sports federations reviewing their guidelines on the involvement of transgender athletes following world swimming body FINA`s ruling to ban anyone who has been through male puberty from elite women`s competitions.

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) will ban transgender women from female contact rugby competitions for the upcoming season after carrying out a review of its transgender policy, the governing body said on Wednesday.

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) will ban transgender women from female contact rugby competitions for the upcoming season after carrying out a review of its transgender policy, the governing body said on Wednesday. The IRFU said the decision was based on medical and scientific evidence and is in line with World Rugby guidance. From this season, only players recorded as female at birth will be allowed to play contact rugby in the women`s category. The change in policy will affect two registered players in the country. The IRFU said it has held discussions with them to provide options for remaining active in the sport, such as in tag or touch rugby, refereeing, coaching, and volunteering. "The IRFU is keenly aware that this is a sensitive and challenging area for those involved and the wider LGBT+ community and will continue to work with those impacted, providing support to ensure their ongoing involvement with the game," the statement read. Transgender players whose sex recorded at birth is female can continue to compete in the male category if they provide written consent and a risk assessment is carried out, the IRFU added. ALSO READ | In pics - Commonwealth Games 2022 concludes with glittery closing ceremony in Birmingham Anne Marie Hughes, spirit of rugby manager with the IRFU, said some people may be disappointed by the change in policy but it was "based solely on new research related to safety". World Rugby last year banned transgender players from competing at the elite level of the women`s game, citing safety concerns. In July, England`s governing body (RFU) voted to restrict transgender women from playing in domestic games. World Athletics and FIFA are among a number of sports federations reviewing their guidelines on the involvement of transgender athletes following world swimming body FINA`s ruling to ban anyone who has been through male puberty from elite women`s competitions.

IRFU to ban transgender women from female contact rugby competitions for upcoming season

The pandemic disrupted tourism across the World. Destinations that rely on tourism struggled to cope as the steady flow visitors came to a grinding halt. The Dublin in Ireland was one of those cities but now industry experts say that the sector has bounced back.

Tourism bounces back in Ireland | Will this tourism recovery last?

Civil society organisations gave a clarion call to people in Belfast on Saturday to protest against a sharp rise in the number of people dying on the streets of Northern Ireland’s capital.

The social activists claimed that the spiralling cost of living, along with a public health emergency like Covid, is making more vulnerable people homeless, reports The Guardian.

In recent months, an estimated 14 people have died, out of which nine were found dead on the streets, the rest in homeless accommodation.

Among the most recent fatalities include a 19-year-old woman, yet to be named, and Jade Gorman, 23, who had lived on the streets but was found dead in an apartment. Officials suspect drug overdose related deaths. In two weeks of June, six homeless men reportedly died of overdoses.

According to the government report&nbsp;published in March, drug-related deaths in Northern Ireland have spiked from 92 a decade ago to 218 in 2020, the highest on record.

Just over half of the fatalities were men aged 25-44. Death rates were highest among people aged 25-34.

Belfast mayor Tina Black, council party group leaders and statutory agencies met on Friday to discuss the crisis.

“I’ve done homeless work for 10 years and never seen this amount of distress and tragedy,” The Guardian quoted Paul McCusker, a city councillor and founder of The People’s Kitchen, the charity organising the march, as saying.

“In one hour last Sunday, we were dealing with three overdoses and one cutting; four people slumped over bins. That’s just one hour in Belfast city centre on a Sunday evening.”

A member of the Social Democratic and Labour party (SDLP), McCusker, said that there are not enough accommodation, addiction services and mental health treatment to take care of the rising number of young homeless people.

&nbsp;“Most people we work with take a cocktail of drugs, which puts them at greater risk,” he said. The cost of living was having a “massive” impact on homelessness, <a name="_Hlk109484136">McCusker </a>added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Civil society organisations gave a clarion call to people in Belfast on Saturday to protest against a sharp rise in the number of people dying on the streets of Northern Ireland’s capital.

Civil society organisations gave a clarion call to people in Belfast on Saturday to protest against a sharp rise in the number of people dying on the streets of Northern Ireland’s capital. The social activists claimed that the spiralling cost of living, along with a public health emergency like Covid, is making more vulnerable people homeless, reports The Guardian. In recent months, an estimated 14 people have died, out of which nine were found dead on the streets, the rest in homeless accommodation. Among the most recent fatalities include a 19-year-old woman, yet to be named, and Jade Gorman, 23, who had lived on the streets but was found dead in an apartment. Officials suspect drug overdose related deaths. In two weeks of June, six homeless men reportedly died of overdoses. According to the government report published in March, drug-related deaths in Northern Ireland have spiked from 92 a decade ago to 218 in 2020, the highest on record. Just over half of the fatalities were men aged 25-44. Death rates were highest among people aged 25-34. Belfast mayor Tina Black, council party group leaders and statutory agencies met on Friday to discuss the crisis. “I’ve done homeless work for 10 years and never seen this amount of distress and tragedy,” The Guardian quoted Paul McCusker, a city councillor and founder of The People’s Kitchen, the charity organising the march, as saying. “In one hour last Sunday, we were dealing with three overdoses and one cutting; four people slumped over bins. That’s just one hour in Belfast city centre on a Sunday evening.” A member of the Social Democratic and Labour party (SDLP), McCusker, said that there are not enough accommodation, addiction services and mental health treatment to take care of the rising number of young homeless people. “Most people we work with take a cocktail of drugs, which puts them at greater risk,” he said. The cost of living was having a “massive” impact on homelessness, McCusker added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amid rise in homeless people deaths, activists call for protest in Ireland’s Belfast

MPs in the UK are planning on a vote to ditch parts of the Brexit deal. Northern Ireland protocol is part of the 2019 Brexit deal. PM Boris Johnson said that they are trying to fix something important to them.

UK: MPs vote on plans to ditch parts of the Brexit deal

In a shocking case, the bodies of a couple seem to have gone undiscovered in their rural bungalow for around 18 months in Ireland. The couple, 81-year-old Nicholas Smith and his wife, 79-year-old Hilary Smith, were British pensioners. They lived in a remote townland known as Rossane. It is about three miles from Cloneen village in County Tipperary. Their bodies were found this week by police on Monday when the neighbours expressed concern that the couple had not been seen since late 2020. An investigation has started into the incident by the police in Ireland. &nbsp;

The body of Nicholas was found in a bedroom while Hilary was in the living room. There does not seem to be any sign of foul play or forced entry. The couple reportedly worked on cruise ships in Australia. They do not seem to have had any children. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/20-maine-coon-cats-eat-body-of-deceased-owner-for-two-weeks-in-russia-find-out-why-490613" hreflang="en">20 Maine Coon cats eat body of deceased owner for two weeks in Russia. Find out why</a>

According to clues, they seem to have died in November or December 2020. As state pathologist Linda Mulligan from University Hospital Waterford’s postmortem was inconclusive, the cops are awaiting the results of toxicology and other tests. The couple may have died from Covid or carbon monoxide poisoning. &nbsp;

“They kept very much to themselves. They were always polite and friendly in that they would say hello and wave at you if you saw them on the road, but they made it clear from the outset they didn’t want to be invited in for tea. They were very private,” a neighbour told the Irish Times. &nbsp;

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In a shocking case, the bodies of a couple seem to have gone undiscovered in their rural bungalow for around 18 months in Ireland. The couple, 81-year-old Nicholas Smith and his wife, 79-year-old Hilary Smith, were British pensioners.

In a shocking case, the bodies of a couple seem to have gone undiscovered in their rural bungalow for around 18 months in Ireland. The couple, 81-year-old Nicholas Smith and his wife, 79-year-old Hilary Smith, were British pensioners. They lived in a remote townland known as Rossane. It is about three miles from Cloneen village in County Tipperary. Their bodies were found this week by police on Monday when the neighbours expressed concern that the couple had not been seen since late 2020. An investigation has started into the incident by the police in Ireland. The body of Nicholas was found in a bedroom while Hilary was in the living room. There does not seem to be any sign of foul play or forced entry. The couple reportedly worked on cruise ships in Australia. They do not seem to have had any children. Also Read: 20 Maine Coon cats eat body of deceased owner for two weeks in Russia. Find out why According to clues, they seem to have died in November or December 2020. As state pathologist Linda Mulligan from University Hospital Waterford’s postmortem was inconclusive, the cops are awaiting the results of toxicology and other tests. The couple may have died from Covid or carbon monoxide poisoning. “They kept very much to themselves. They were always polite and friendly in that they would say hello and wave at you if you saw them on the road, but they made it clear from the outset they didn’t want to be invited in for tea. They were very private,” a neighbour told the Irish Times. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

After 18 months, bodies of elderly British couple found in Ireland. Read details here

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