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Irish Examiner
a day ago
- Politics
- Irish Examiner
Sarah Harte: Limiting freedom of speech is a threat to a functioning democracy
The poet and public intellectual Thomas McCarthy told me this week that he thought the Western World was depressed. One depressing and alarming development is the erosion of freedom of speech. Censorship is proliferating in front of our eyes, and it's reached our shores with real-life consequences for our adult children. America, no longer the land of the brave and the free, is where Irish J1 students will have their social media posts checked going back five years. There is something surreal about this. Big Brother is watching you but not even bothering to hide it. Last week, it was reported in the Irish Examiner that visa applicants must 'list all social media usernames or handles of every platform they have used from the last five years on the DS-160 visa application form.' Privacy settings on all social media platforms must be set to public. Talk about having a chilling effect on freedom of speech among a crop of young people who have just come of voting age. We need their young voices. I chatted to a retired senior judge about this last weekend, and he was horrified by the development. As he said, bad things like this happen incrementally, until one day you wake up to a knock on the door and think, 'Jesus, how did we get here?' Workers stand handcuffed after being arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE, at Delta Downs Racetrack, Hotel and Casino in Calcasieu Parish, near Vinton, Louisiana last month. Photo: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement via AP Both the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste have expressed concern. Simon Harris intends to raise the matter with the new US Ambassador next month. Micheál Martin has stated that he disagrees with the measures. In reality, the American Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) now essentially reject travellers to the United States who are not ideologically in line with the regime. The parameters of what is considered dissent against the regime seem broad and vague. Imagine if we checked the phones of American tourists in Dublin and said, 'No, sorry, you don't get to see the Cliffs of Moher or the Book of Kells because we see from your social media posts that you deny the genocide in Gaza and you seem supportive of Benjamin Netanyahu'. What the hell has happened to America with its modern-day version of McCarthyism restraining people who hold opposing views? Are all lessons from the past being lost? Barack Obama, who has frustrated many Democrats with his relative silence on a range of subjects in the USA, issued a warning a week ago that America is dangerously close to losing its democracy. Except it's not just in America that this censorship is taking place. Kneecap fans at Glastonbury at the weekend. Following the festival, British police are considering whether to launch criminal investigations into the hip hop group and punk duo Bob Vylan. Freedom of speech has been under relentless attack in the UK. Their Public Order Act 1986 is capable of broad interpretation. In tandem with two further acts of 2002 and 2022, it effectively allows policing to be politicised with jokes, social media posts, and even private conversations arguably coming within their dragnet. Following the Glastonbury Festival last weekend, British police are considering whether to launch criminal investigations into two acts: the Irish hip-hop group Kneecap and the punk duo Bob Vylan. One of the members of Bob Vylan chanted 'Death, death, to the IDF'. The police announced the possibility of an investigation on Saturday on X. You might not like what someone says, but you may want to ensure that people still have the right to say it. The question is, where does cultural resistance and performance (including satire) end and terrorism or incitement to hatred begin? This is not an easy question to answer, but it is a vitally important one. While 'Glasto' was going on, John Brennan, former Director of the CIA, addressed a summer school for the Law Society's Centre for Justice and Law Reform in Dublin. It was on the theme 'Defending Democracy: Legal Responses to Emerging Threats'. He remarked on the 'delicate balance' faced by governments in permitting free speech while prohibiting hate speech and incitement to violence. We've had a back-and-forth on this ourselves, with hate speech laws being dropped last year by former minister for justice Helen McEntee due to a lack of consensus on the thorny issue. I have found myself flip-flopping on the subject, but I have come to believe that we should probably be wary of hate speech laws for fear of stifling public discourse. Kneecap It is precisely because clamping down on freedom of expression is taken so seriously by human rights lawyers that Kneecap's frontman, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, who performs under the name Mo Chara, has attracted an extraordinarily heavyweight legal team defending him in his alleged terrorism offence. He was charged last month for allegedly displaying a flag in support of Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah at a concert in November 2024. He has firmly denied the charge but is currently on bail. Ó hAnnaidh's legal team (Kneecap call them An Scoithfhoireann or the Dream Team) is a roll call of who's who in human rights law, including Gareth Peirce, who formerly represented the Guildford Four and the Birmingham Six. Peirce has devoted decades to defending underdogs. Critics see her as destabilising the establishment and undermining national security, which is the catch-all rationale that the Americans are using now to reject visa applications or even detain people. Peirce has spoken in the past about the dangers of stigmatising people as a threat to national security when they're not, and 'how justice dies when the law is co-opted for political purposes'. Gareth Peirce avoids the media like the plague, but in an old interview, she said: 'We take it on trust that if the government suspects people of terrorism and locks them up, or puts them on control orders without charge, they must be terrorists.' When a political context is as febrile as it is now, it is more likely that governments will dismantle fundamental freedoms, and we won't question what is really going on. Could this crackdown be a reaction or an attempted distraction from the allegation that the British state has failed to uphold international law and arguably been complicit in genocide through its supply of arms to Israel? Either way, the trial promises to be an important test of the principle of freedom of expression. At Glastonbury, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh accused Israel of genocide and led the crowd in a chant of "free, free Palestine' as well as anti-Starmer chants. The anti-Starmer chants were explained by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's remarks last week when he said that it was 'not appropriate' for Kneecap to appear at Glastonbury. Michael Eavis and his daughter Emily, who run the famous festival, were said to have been pressurised not to let them play. At Glastonbury, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh accused Israel of genocide and led the crowd in a chant of 'free, free Palestine' as well as anti-Starmer chants. Photo: Yui Mok/PA Meanwhile, in Germany, you can't hold a pro-Palestine demonstration without risking arrest and being accused of anti-Semitism. The Irish writer, Naoise Dolan, has spoken about being detained twice in Berlin for attending pro-Palestinian demonstrations. We're fortunate enough to live in a country where freedom of speech is protected in our Constitution. We received a positive school report from the Democracy Index last year, indicating that we have a fully functioning democracy and are expected to perform well in the 2025 Index. Let's keep it that way because we need dissenting voices now more than ever.
Time Business News
12-06-2025
- Time Business News
Where to Stay by the Sea in Ireland: Beach Houses and Hotel
Travelers looking for peace and stunning scenery will find a perfect getaway at Ireland's rugged coast with its charming appeal. Having a vacation at an Irish beach house or in a beach hotel gives you the chance to discover authentic Ireland and its rich heritage. The Irish coast is much more than a place to visit—it's a feeling of freedom, fresh air from the sea, and the sound of waves under an open sky. A stay in a beach house Ireland lets you enjoy space, privacy, and a beautiful sea view, whether you're on a family trip, on a romantic getaway, or looking for inner peace. Many of these properties are located on private beaches or cliffs, which means you can access the water without leaving the property. Instead of a standard hotel room, a beach house lets you experience local living with a kitchen, a fireplace, and a private porch to watch the sunset over the water. Imagine hearing the calming sound of the sea, eating a meal in front of an ocean view, or just exploring a quiet beach. In places such as Donegal, Clare, or Kerry, staying in a beach house Ireland makes you feel very close to nature. Those who want luxury and great service can also consider spending their trip at a beach hotel Ireland. Besides giving guests breathtaking ocean views, these hotels have restaurants, spas, and offer guided tours. You can find many beach hotels in Ireland in Dingle, Galway, or Westport, so guests can easily visit local sights, pubs, and join in on local festivals. Beach hotels also often feature sea-facing balconies, in-house wellness centers, and fresh seafood dining, all curated to enhance your coastal escape. For those who want to spend their time relaxing—on a honeymoon, enjoying retirement or during a weekend trip—beach hotels have everything you could ask for. 1. County Kerry – Wild Beauty at Its Best Kerry, which is famous for the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula, is the ideal place for beach lovers. Inch Beach and Rossbeigh Strand are well-known for surfing, taking walks, and watching the sunset. You can choose to rent a small beach house Ireland, perched right by the ocean, or you may prefer a hotel with elegant dining, a spa, and scenic views. 2. County Donegal – Rugged and Remote Donegal is meant for people who want to escape from modern life. Since these islands are less crowded and many of the coasts are natural, the beaches are very impressive. Portsalon, Ballymastocker Bay, and Murder Hole Beach are among the most beautiful places. You can stay in intimate cottages right at the beach or in trendy hotels with stunning views of the North Atlantic. 3. County Clare – Cliffs and Culture Clare is a popular place because of the Cliffs of Moher and its strong music scene. Families and surfers come to Lahinch Beach, while the nearby town offers lots of pubs, art galleries, and markets selling local goods. Being in a beach hotel or renting a cottage allows you to enjoy the water and also learn about the local traditions. 4. County Waterford – Ireland's Ancient East Tramore and Clonea are some of the sandy beaches you will find in Waterford if you'd rather experience mild weather in the southeast. This area is rich in Viking heritage and provides a wonderful mix of heritage. Beach houses are excellent for family vacations, and the hotels are perfect for couples or older people wanting to relax. A beach house Ireland or a beach hotel Ireland is your gateway to numerous coastal activities. From thrilling water sports like surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding to more relaxed options such as shell collecting, sandcastle building, and coastal walks, there's something for everyone. Many hotels and local guides offer curated experiences like seaweed baths, dolphin watching, and historic tours of nearby castles and ruins. Bird watchers and photographers will also be delighted with the abundance of coastal wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Ireland's coastal beauty can be appreciated year-round, but the best time to book a beach house or beach hotel is between May and September. These months offer longer days, more sunshine, and livelier local scenes. However, if you prefer a quieter, more introspective escape, the shoulder seasons—April and October—are ideal. Even in winter, the coastline's stormy drama and cozy fireside evenings have a magnetic appeal. When planning your beach retreat in Ireland, pack layers. The weather can change quickly, especially by the sea. Include waterproof jackets, sturdy shoes for coastal trails, and swimwear if you're brave enough for a dip. Don't forget a camera for those epic sunsets and a good book to enjoy on your patio or by the fire. No Irish beach vacation is complete without indulging in local cuisine. Fresh oysters, smoked salmon, and seafood chowder are must-tries. Many beach hotels offer seasonal menus featuring ingredients sourced directly from the sea and surrounding farms. If you're in a beach house, visit local markets and cook your Irish-inspired dishes—another benefit of self-catering accommodations. timebusinessnews Whether you're drawn to the solitude of a beach house in Ireland or the pampered experience of a beach hotel Ireland, the country's coastlines promise an unforgettable escape. Ireland's beaches are not just destinations—they are sanctuaries where history, nature, and modern comfort come together. Let the rhythm of the tides guide your next holiday and create memories as timeless as the cliffs that frame them. For those considering their next retreat, DOLPHIN BEACH stands out as a serene blend of comfort and scenic beauty, offering guests a truly immersive Irish coastal experience. Q1. What is the best time to book a beach house or beach hotel Ireland? A: May to September is ideal for good weather, though April and October offer fewer crowds and lower prices. Q2. Are Irish beach houses family-friendly? A: Yes, most beach houses offer spacious accommodations, full kitchens, and private outdoor areas, making them perfect for families. Q3. Do beach hotels in Ireland offer ocean views? A: Many beach hotels are situated directly on the coast and offer sea-facing rooms, balconies, and dining areas with ocean views. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
BBC News
06-06-2025
- BBC News
Cliffs of Moher: Inquest told boy slipped in puddle and fell to his death
A 12-year-old boy fell to his death at Ireland's Cliffs of Moher after slipping in a puddle close to the edge, an inquest has Zhao was with his mother and her friends at the beauty spot on the County Clare coast on 23 July last year when he walked ahead of the group.A French tourist who witnessed him fall told Clare Coroner's Court she saw him slip and try to pull himself up by grasping at grass, before he disappeared over the edge. The coroner embraced Zhihan's distraught mother after recording a verdict of accidental death. Zhihan and his mother, Xianhong Huang, both Chinese nationals, had arrived in Ireland 12 days before his fatal fall. In her deposition, Ms Huang said that Zhihan was walking ahead of her on the Cliffs of Moher trail and she lost sight of him."My son walked very fast and was ahead of us by 50 metres," she said."As there was only one path, I thought we would meet him along the way. "When I didn't, I walked to the visitor centre and I checked the visitor centre."Unable to find him at the visitor centre, she returned to the path to search for him and when there was no sign of him, she reported him Huang said she last saw Zhihan at 13:00 that day and the court heard she provided gardaí (Irish police) with a photo of him she had taken earlier on the through an interpreter at the inquest in Kilrush, County Clare, Ms Huang, wiping away tears, asked: "What exactly caused Zhihan to fall from the cliffs?"Clare County Coroner Isobel O'Dea told the grieving mother that the evidence of an eyewitness would help answer that question. French tourist, Marion Tourgon, told the inquest she witnessed Zhihan falling over the edge at about 13:45 that Tourgon explained she was at the edge of the cliffs with her husband and two children and they were taking a selfie at the time. She describing seeing a young Asian boy, who was alone, come into view."I saw him slipping in the puddle that appears in the photo that my husband sent to the police," the witness said. "His right foot slipped into the puddle, with him trying to stop himself from falling with his left foot but his left foot ended up in the air."Ms Tourgon added: "It was very quick - he found himself in an awkward position with his left foot in a void over the cliff and his right knee on the edge of the cliff."She continued: "His right knee eventually fell into the void over the cliff and he was trying to grasp the grass with his hands to pull himself up. "He didn't shout and there was no noise."The Tourgon family then phoned the emergency air, land and sea search operation began involving the Irish Coast Guard, gardaí, and Irish civil defence volunteers who used boats, drones, divers and a helicopter. Five day search for missing boy A police witness, Garda Colm Collins, told the inquest he received a call at 14:00 that day after a male was seen falling off the edge of the Cliffs of Moher. He said that the Irish Coast Guard had spotted a body floating in the water at the base of the cliffs. The court heard a lifeboat was launched but it was was not able to access the site where the body was spotted due to the sea was another five days before Zhihan's body was eventually recovered from the boy was found by a fisherman, Matthew O'Halloran, from Corofin, County spotted a body facedown and arms extended in the water between Doolin and the Aran Islands shortly after 10:00 local time on 28 July 2024. Mr O'Halloran alerted the Irish Coast Guard and its members retrieved Zhihan's body and brought it ashore at coroner said post-mortem results had confirmed that Zhihan died from multiple traumatic injuries consistent with a fall from a height."It is clear from evidence we heard that Zhihan slipped off the cliffs rather than any other way. His death would have been very quick - instantaneous."Addressing the boy's mother, she said: "I can't imagine how upsetting this is for you."Ms O'Dea also extended her sympathies to Zhihan's father who was not present at the embraced Ms Huang as she left the coroner's accident was the second fatal fall at the Cliffs of Moher within a three-month period last year. In May 2024, a student in her 20s lost her footing while walking with friends and fell to her death. Since August last year, large sections of the Cliffs of Moher trail have been closed due to safety the time, the Clare Local Development Company confirmed that it was taking the action following the two fatal accidents.
