Summary
In a vibrant community spotlight, Clonisley in County Leash showcases its strong community spirit and ongoing development projects. The village, known for its active volunteer base and local clubs, is undergoing significant changes, including plans to revitalize the parish hall, which has served the community for generations. Local leaders emphasize the importance of preserving this space, aiming to enhance accessibility and modernize facilities to better serve residents.
In a notable development, the family of Brian Stack, a prison officer murdered in 1983, receives a formal state apology from the Irish government, acknowledging the failures in the investigation into his death. Taoiseach Micheál Martin expresses regret for the suffering endured by the Stack family over the decades, highlighting the shortcomings of the Garda investigation. This apology is seen as a crucial step in addressing the family's long quest for justice.
Additionally, discussions around energy efficiency reveal that Ireland is wasting significant amounts of renewable energy, enough to power nearly half a million homes. Experts suggest that investing in large-scale battery storage could mitigate this issue, allowing for better utilization of generated electricity and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The conversation underscores the need for modernizing the energy grid to accommodate the growing demand for renewable energy sources.
Lastly, a unique wedding in Athboy captures attention as bride Keelan Ward opts for a black gown and incorporates gothic elements, including a double coffin at the reception. This unconventional celebration reflects her desire to stay true to herself, demonstrating that personal expression can redefine traditional norms in wedding ceremonies.
Show Notes
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has issued a formal State apology to the family of murdered Portlaoise Prison officer Brian Stack, acknowledging serious shortcomings in Garda investigations into his killing more than 40 years ago. Storm Austen is set to bring heavy rain and strong winds across Ireland, with Met Éireann issuing weather warnings and cautioning about flooding, transport disruption and dangerous travel conditions. New figures reveal Ireland lost more than 13% of its available wind and solar electricity during the first nine months of 2026, enough to power almost half a million homes, prompting calls for greater investment in battery storage.
More from Midlands Today with Will Faulkner
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