The research firm MS Intelligence examined discarded cigarette packs on the streets and in bins and found that Drogheda and Tallaght were the worst affected areas
The cigarettes had a retail value of €4.3 million and were uncovered when officials searched a truck and 4 x 4 at a service station near Castlebellingham.
The Irish Small Firm and Medium Enterprises Association believes that the temporary amnesty would help individuals to legitimise their “hidden economy” tax/earnings status.
An investment of €6.5 million in additional staff focused on targeting black market activity and increased audit activity could bring in the funds, Michael Noonan has said.
THE REQUIREMENT FOR a president to make a declaration when entering office has cropped up as a talking point before due to its mention of religion.
The Constitution states that the president when entering office must make a declaration “in the presence of Almighty God” about their promise to fulfil their duties and maintain the constitution.
TDs Róisín Shortall and others including Senator David Norris are taking a case to the European Court of Human Rights to challenge this constitutional requirement for the president and a body that advises the president.
According to the Irish Times, they argue that this oath excludes non-Christians and non-believers from these positions unless they are willing to declare something “which goes against their conscience”.
This issue previously cropped up in the past, including in 2013 when then-Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore said he would swear the oath despite being an agnostic.
So today we’re asking: Should the President have to swear an oath in the presence of God when being sworn in?
Rain; breezy this morning
Max: 19 °C
Min: 13 °C
Cloudy and breezy with a shower
Max: 18 °C
Min: 13 °C
