News you need: Rotunda billing scandal and US-Iran peace deal
Today’s briefing covers a financial controversy at Dublin’s Rotunda Hospital, a major public inquiry into patient abuse, and a significant international peace agreement. We also look at high public support for a social media age limit and the latest developments in the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Consultants at the Rotunda Maternity Hospital who were hired on public-only contracts have been billing private health insurers for their services. These doctors, including anaesthesiologists (specialists who manage pain during surgery) and paediatricians (doctors for children), were not supposed to charge private fees under their government contracts. The hospital reportedly permitted the practice, which involved billing for procedures like epidurals and C-sections.
Almost three-quarters of Irish adults support a ban on social media for children under the age of 16, according to a new survey of 1,000 people. The research comes as the government considers stricter rules for digital platforms to protect young people. The survey suggests a high level of public concern regarding the impact of social media on minors.
A public inquiry is set to publish its findings today regarding the alleged abuse of vulnerable patients at Muckamore Abbey Hospital in County Antrim. The hospital provides care for people with mental health issues and learning disabilities. The report follows a long-term investigation into how patients were treated at the facility.
In international news, US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have signed a deal intended to end the war in the Middle East. As part of the agreement, Iran has agreed to dilute its enriched uranium—a material used in nuclear energy and weapons—in exchange for peace. This landmark deal marks a major shift in global relations.
Meanwhile, the conflict in Ukraine continues as Russia launched missile attacks on Kyiv, forcing residents to seek shelter. This followed Ukrainian drone strikes on an oil refinery in Moscow for the second time this week. The escalations occurred as President Volodymyr Zelensky sought further support from world leaders.
For more on these stories and other updates, visit the app's News section. Read about the passing of Lilo & Stitch voice actress Daveigh Chase at age 35, and the political challenges facing the British Reform party in a crucial by-election.