Fine Gael Cork North Central Senator, has said that the current conflict in Gaza is a replica of what happened in 2009, when he visited the region, and that it is time for the EU to show the Palestinians it is serious about a peaceful solution. Senator Burke was speaking today in the Seanad which was reconvened to discuss the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan TD, today briefed Senators on his ongoing engagement with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, the Egyptian Foreign Minister and the Director General of UNRWA seeking a ceasefire in Gaza.

Fine Gael Dublin Senator, and the Party’s Seanad Spokesperson on European Affairs, Catherine Noone, has said that the EU must do more to resolve international conflicts. Senator Noone was speaking in the Seanad today (Thursday) which was reconvened to discuss the situations in Gaza and Ukraine.

Fine Gael TD for Dublin South Central, Catherine Byrne, has called on Dublin City Council to take firm and urgent action to collect significant rent arrears owed by some of their tenants.

Fine Gael MEP for Dublin, Brian Hayes has, today (Wednesday), called on Irish graduates to consider applying for internships in the European Parliament.

Charlie Flanagan TD, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, travels to Belfast today (Wednesday) for a series of political and community engagements. In his first working visit to Northern Ireland since his appointment, Minister Flanagan will meet with First Minister Peter Robinson and with deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness.

Penalty points to increase and new Novice category driver to be introduced from 1st August

Fine Gael Senator and the Party’s candidate in the upcoming Dublin South-West bye-election, Cáit Keane, has said that the first UN World Day Against Trafficking, which takes place today (Wednesday), highlights the need for cross border action on what is essentially modern day slavery. Senator Keane has also urged the Government to publish second National Action Plan to Prevent and Combat the Trafficking of Human Beings, which is currently being prepared by the Department of Justice.

The Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald TD, today announced the commencement of the open recruitment process for the post of Garda Commissioner.

Fine Gael TD for Roscommon/South Leitrim, Frank Feighan, has welcomed the start of construction of the €6 million Endoscopy Unit at Roscommon County Hospital, one of three projects worth a total of €20 million for the hospital.