EU orders ‘hey Google’ to be opened to rivals
The European Commission has ordered Google to allow competitors to be able to offer voice commands on Android apps so that consumers can choose alternative AI assistants if they want…
EU approves electricity discount for Irish energy-intensive industries
The European Commission has approved a government scheme to provide up to €300 million in temporary electricity price relief to Irish energy-intensive companies. Companies will be able to claim back…
Derogation could be exacerbating nitrate pollution
Special rules allowing Irish farmers to continue to spread significant amounts of manure may be leading to increased pollution levels and embedding bad habits. The European Commission has published the…
Experts advise EU-wide social media and websites banned for children
Experts have advised the EU to put in place a Europe-wide ban on children accessing social media and other websites that may contain inappropriate content. The President of the European…
EU approves extra support for farmers battling high fertiliser prices
The Council of the European Union has approved “urgent and targeted financial support” to farmers struggling with high fertiliser prices as a result of the war in the Middle East.…
EU aid for horticulture
European Commission announced on Friday that it had approved €2 million Irish State aid for horticulture companies facing increased fuel prices. Announcement in full: “The European Commission has approved a…
Taoiseach addresses European Parliament
Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s speech in full to the European Parliament in Strasbourg to mark the start of Ireland’s presidency of the Council of the European Union on Tuesday 7 July…
Ireland’s start to EU presidency overshadowed by Alumina questions
The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (DETE) will report back on its investigation into the Aughinish Alumina refinery “within weeks”, the Taoiseach has confirmed. The Limerick plant is reportedly…
Waves could meet all of Ireland electricity needs and more
Ireland’s coastline could meet our electricity needs four times over, that’s according to a new report. Ocean Energy Europe, which represents the offshore power industry, says that Ireland is better…
EU court upholds Google fine
The EU’s highest court has upheld a multi-billion Euro fine against Google for abusing its dominating position. Google and its parent company Alphabet have been fighting the fine since it…