News - Taoiseach Simon Harris

Simon Harris says it was ok for people to have views on the issue and an input into their own towns and villages.

He was speaking during a visit to Roscommon earlier today, where he was asked about protests at Lissywollen in Athlone regarding the accommodation of asylum seekers.

Taoiseach Simon Harris is vowing to reduce it to 11 per cent for hospitality businesses, excluding hotels, if the party is re-elected to Government.

The Taoiseach says it's up to him to call a general election, with coalition leaders to meet on Monday to decide on the date.

Sinn Féin is describing it as "a fiasco", saying it was meant to be open in 2022 but is way over-budget.

The Taoiseach said everyone will continue to work closely together to find a solution to the crisis

SIPTU is calling for urgent action on transport safety after she was shot in her cab on the bus yesterday.

On a visit to Roscommon yesterday, OPW Minister Kieran O’Donnell also confirmed a temporary measure should go to planning next month.

It followed separate talks with the Labour Court - which has told both parties it cannot intervene at this time.

Reports stated the plans include prefab units for 200 people at the former Columb Military Barracks in Mullingar and space for 400 people at a site in Athlone according to the Irish Independent.