By Sarah Gill
14th Jul 2023
14th Jul 2023
Your speedy summary of today's must-read stories.
RTÉ boss orders external review of voluntary exit scheme
An external review of RTÉ’s voluntary exit scheme has been ordered after an Oireachtas committee heard that a package received by one senior executive was not subject to the required sign-off. RTÉ director-general Kevin Bakhurst commissioned the probe that will cover the years 2017-2021. The examination will feed into the Government’s review of contractor fees and human resources at the broadcaster.
WHO says aspartame is a ‘possible carcinogen’
The sweetener aspartame is a “possible carcinogen” but it remains safe to consume at already-agreed levels, two groups linked to the World Health Organization (WHO) have declared. Aspartame is one of the world’s most popular sweeteners, used in products from Coca-Cola diet sodas to Mars’ Extra chewing gum.
Ireland’s carbon budget limit
Ireland’s emissions fell only 2% in 2022, according to the latest assessment by the Environmental Protection Agency, raising alarm bells about whether the country can stay within legally-binding emissions ceilings between now and 2025. Carbon budgets signed into law last year which allocate a certain amount of emissions that Ireland must stay within in order to meet overarching targets and help thwart the climate crisis are at risk of being overshot unless significant changes are made.
Cork City
Planning has been granted for a €2.5m extension to one of the most congested off-ramps on Cork’s busiest road in a bid to improve road safety. Councillors approved the 750-metre extension to the westbound approach to Mahon junction 10 on the N40 South Ring Road near Jacob’s Island project at Monday’s city council meeting after they got assurances from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).
State Yellow weather warning
Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow rain warning for the country as spells of heavy rain are expected. Spells of heavy rain and blustery winds are expected, with the public urged to remember this weather can bring with it localised flooding, poor visibility and difficult travelling conditions. The warning for counties in Leinster, Munster and Connacht as well as Monaghan and Cavan is valid since 2am this morning until 7pm this evening.
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