ireland edition

thursday october 4 2018 thetimes.ie | no 72657 €1.50 (£1.60) IRELAND AND THE WORLD Why Dublin Paddling for the planet are superpower (in-waiting) A record-breaking bid to clean up rivers Times2 Christy O’Connor, Page 46 Children’s science centre delayed at least five years amid row

Seán McCárthaigh freedom of information laws, show that Interactive Science Centre, is to be built yet to issue a tender for the project, de- higher due to the delay. Correspond- Senior Ireland Reporter the project has effectively stalled amid in part of the National Concert Hall in spite signing a 2013 agreement with the ence between the parties shows that a dispute over the original agreement. Dublin. It is expected to house 200 ex- NCSC to complete the centre in 2016. Danny O’Hare, the NCSC chairman, is Plans to deliver Ireland’s first national They show that the OPW believes it hibits including a €2 million planetari- It is understood that the duration of becoming increasingly frustrated. science centre for children may be de- has been threatened with legal action. um, attracting more than 150,000 visi- the contract will be 50 months which The NCSC has accused the OPW of layed until at least 2023 amid a row It has responded by warning the tors a year. means the centre is unlikely to open being in “flagrant and continuing” between the promoters and the Office National Children’s Science Centre Ireland is the only country in the EU before 2023 at the earliest. breach of the agreement by not advanc- of Public Works (OPW). (NCSC) that political support for the without a dedicated, interactive science The OPW is prepared to commit ing the project. The state-backed centre was to open project has waned. centre for children. The proposal has €30 million to the project but it is un- Dr O’Hare complained on numerous in 2016 but documents, obtained under Exploration Station, the National received state backing but the OPW has derstood the overall cost has become Continued on page 7, col 5 STEFAN ROUSSEAU/PA; OLI SCARFF/AFP/GETTY IMAGES Concern over Naughten’s dinner with head of bid

Peter O’Dwyer Senior Ireland Business Reporter Denis Naughten was told of potential changes relating to the last remaining bidder for the National Broadband Plan at a private dinner hosted by the businessman heading the consortium, The Times can reveal. The communications minister accepted an invitation from David McCourt, the head of Granahan McCourt, to attend a private dinner in New York earlier this year. Mr Naughten, who was in New York to address the United Nations, met Mr McCourt with officials from his department in mid-July. At that point Mr McCourt’s consortium still included SSE, the British infrastructure company, as well as Granahan McCourt, Enet and others. The consortium was the only Dancing Queen The British prime minister Theresa May danced onto the stage to Abba’s hit song before delivering her speech at the Tory party conference. Pages 20-22 bidder remaining after Eir and Siro, a joint venture between Vodafone and the ESB, walked away from the process. SSE’s withdrawal was subsequently announced at the end of July. At the dinner, the telecoms entrepre- neur reassured Mr Naughten of his Doctors discharge suicidal commitment to the project to provide high-speed broadband to 543,000 rural homes and businesses and told him that a request could be made to alter the consortium as SSE may withdraw. Actavo, the engineering services company owned by Denis O’Brien, is patients to ‘pass the buck’ one of several new partners involved in Granahan McCourt’s bid, along with Nokia, the Kelly Group and KN Group. Vulnerable at risk because staff not properly trained, says top psychologist A spokesman for the Department of Communications confirmed the details Aaron Rogan Senior Ireland Reporter suicidal patients once their medical primary problem regardless of other family’s concern that the woman, who of the dinner yesterday. He said: “Dur- problem has been dealt with. Too often issues such as drug or alcohol addic- had psychiatric problems and was ing the course of this social event Mr Doctors are discharging suicidal doctors were not equipped to deal with tion. “It is better than the current addicted to drugs, was repeatedly McCourt mentioned to the minister patients from emergency departments suicidal patients if they did not require passing-the-buck approach that hap- discharged from hospitals and acute that the department had raised issues to “get rid of the risk”, a leading psychol- psychiatric care and simply discharged pens where everyone’s just trying to get mental health wards even after she told regarding the speed with which his con- ogist has said. them instead, he said. rid of the risk,” he said. a counsellor she wanted to die. sortium was submitting required docu- Eoin Galavan, a clinical psychologist Mental health experts are calling for Today The Times reveals the details The case mirrors that of Caoilte Ó mentation to the NBP procurement and expert in suicide prevention, said Ireland to adopt a “no wrong door” of a woman from Cork who died aged 31 Broin, whose body was found in the process, and the risk of further delays. that vulnerable people are being placed framework that would require all ser- in May this year after her family said Liffey in 2016. His family said it was dif- “Mr McCourt also said that a request in danger because hospital staff are not vices to link up so that suicidal people she was discharged from an emergency ficult to get care for him because he was may be submitted to the department properly trained to deal with them. are not left without proper treatment. department despite their pleas for her repeatedly turned away from mental around a potential change to the He said doctors in emergency Dr Galavan said that a person’s sui- to be detained under the Mental Health health services as he had problems with consortium structure. In this context, departments must stop discharging cidal tendencies must be treated as the Act. Letters to the hospital show the Continued on page 8, col 5 Continued on page 2, col 3 2 1R M Thursday October 4 2018 | the times News TODAY’S EDITION Calls for report on campus Budget talks for Housebuilding Noise row over childcare cash plan ‘sped up’ doughnut shop Katherine Zappone is Leo Varadkar says that The Krispy Kreme sexual assault and violence locked in “difficult” the government is doughnut shop that budget negotiations speeding up its opened in Dublin last Ellen Coyne Senior Ireland Reporter said. She had previously backed me, I have been inundated with with the finance housebuilding week has been forced mandatory consent classes for all hundreds of letters and mails from minister to secure programme and has to close a drive Universities, students and the freshers. She said that she was holding women and girls from every part of this funding to extend the dismissed accusations through at night after government have pledged to join forces today’s forum to hear “first hand” what island,” she said. affordable childcare that it has “sat on the neighbours complained to examine the scale of sexual violence universities were doing to tackle sexual “Some people may never be able to scheme. Page 4 sidelines”. Page 6 about noise. Page 9 on campuses across Ireland. violence. speak to another person about their Mary Mitchell O’Connor, the junior The justice minister has praised Lynn experience of sexual assault, much less minister for higher education, said that Ruane, the student activist and inde- a garda. Just because someone cannot COMMENT sexual assault was “too common” for pendent senator, for starting a national report, though, does not mean they too many third level students. She will conversation about sexual violence. should be invisible. The new garda commissioner must promote be joined by Charlie Flanagan, the Mr Flanagan told Ms Ruane, who “We need a survey that goes into justice minister, and representatives recently spoke about her experience of communities, that can reach survivors a vision of reform and service for his force from the gardaí at a forum on sexual rape, that a “technical issue” was delay- in their own surroundings and translate CORMAC LUCEY, PAGE 13 violence in Dublin Castle today. ing the first national sexual violence their experiences, their pain in sharing It was reported last month that three study in 12 years. He has promised a that part of themselves into a better students had said they were sexually second Sexual Assault and Violence in understanding of the realities of sexual Trump rebuked Firms ‘must Horan set for assaulted during freshers week at Ireland (SAVI) report. The first was in violence, the barriers to accessing law University College Cork. A study by the 2002, and the government has failed to enforcement, medical and therapeutic for mockery invest in IT’ return to Mayo National University of Ireland Galway deliver on a promise to carry out a services for those abused and their President Trump’s Innovation in financial James Horan, the this summer said that 70 per cent of second one for over four years. families and how the state can do better mocking of the woman services creates former Mayo manager, women and 40 per cent of men had suf- Ms Ruane revealed that she had been and respond to these needs.” who made sex-assault opportunities but also will be put forward for fered some level of sexual harassment raped in her own home in 2010 after a Mr Flanagan said that it was claims against the poses risks that could ratification at an by the end of college. party. A man let himself into her room “extremely important” to the govern- judge he has chosen lead to another crisis, executive committee “This problem will only be effectively and raped her while she was asleep. She ment to have up to date and reliable for the Supreme Court a Central Bank of meeting to resume the tackled by everyone working together. woke up during the attack. data on sexual violence in Ireland. was criticised by three Ireladn deputy role that he left in Third level institutions have a responsi- Yesterday she asked Mr Flanagan in He said that a “technical issue” with key senators. Page 24 governor said. Page 31 2014. Page 56 bility in this area, and many have run the Seanad when the government was carrying out the report was delaying sexual consent workshops for their going to carry out a second SAVI report him being able to get government students. These can have a significant to try and understand the scale of approval to set up a second SAVI. He COMMENT 13 UK NEWS 19 SPORT 42 positive impact on the students they sexual violence. “For the last two added that he was keen to work with Ms LETTERS 16 WORLD 24 CROSSWORD 56 engage with,” Ms Mitchell O’Connor weeks, since I shared what happened to Ruane on the matter. LEADING ARTICLES 17 BUSINESS 31 TV & RADIO TIMES2

FOLLOW US thetimesIE thetimesIE Banks pay out €580m over ‘Prescription DINNER the onion and TONIGHT garlic. Soften the levy affecting onion and garlic in tracker mortgage scandal Tuscan chicken the residual oil in the health of poor’ This is one of those pan or wipe out the Niamh Lyons Ireland Political Editor industry-wide review of tracker mort- easy but special pan and use the gage accounts. The governor will say chicken stews, remaining 1 tbsp Banks have paid out €580 million to some banks adopted a “narrowly legal- Katie O’Neill Ireland Reporter flavoured with lemon oil. Return the chicken. 38,400 affected tracker mortgage cus- istic approach” with some offering ini- and rosemary, white Add the rosemary, tomers, the governor of the Central tial compensation proposals that “fell The government has been urged to wine and stock. The olive oil; 1 onion; microplane the lemon Bank will tell a committee today. well short of our expectations”, adding: begin phasing out the €2 prescription gravy bobs with black 2 garlic cloves; 2 sprigs zest over the top and Philip Lane will confirm that the pro- “While such issues were addressed, levy for medical card holders before and green pitted rosemary; 250ml add the juice of half cess is “significantly advanced”, with they raised serious questions about the next week’s budget. olives, the flavours chicken stock; 250ml the lemon plus the 93 per cent of those who were taken off current and not just historic culture in The presidents of the Irish Pharmacy and textures white wine; 1 lemon; stock and wine. Stir low rates receiving offers of redress. the banks.” Union (IPU) and the National Associa- complemented by 50g green pitted vigorously as the Four of the five main lenders are Mr Lane will also stress that the cen- tion of General Practitioners (NAGP) boiled potatoes to olives; 50g black liquid comes to close to completing their redress and tral bank has placed a “specific focus” have jointly called for an end to the fee, mash into the pitted olives. simmer. Reduce the compensation process, with the on improving the levels of diversity at describing it as a levy on the health and delicious sauce. Unfurl the chicken heat to low, cover and Central Bank “exerting significant senior levels in financial services firms. wellbeing of the least well-off. Alternatively, serve fillets and slice down cook for 20 minutes. pressure” on the remaining lender. “The aim is to improve decision-mak- Maitiú Ó Tuathail, of NAGP, said the with crusty bread and the pieces into 3 or 4 Stir in the olives and “We will continue to challenge them ing with these firms, reduce the risk of fee was a barrier to patients getting vital green beans. chunky strips. Toss season to taste with [lenders] where necessary in order to groupthink, improve risk management, medicine. He said: “A system must be Serves 4 with the flour. Brown salt and lemon juice. confirm that all groups of affected and in doing so, ensure that organisa- introduced whereby marginalised Prep 15 min in batches in 2 tbsp Simmer, uncovered, customers have been identified and tions give sufficient priority to the people are exempted from fees which Cook 40 min hot oil in a spacious, for a further 5 minutes. included for redress and compensa- experience and treatment of their they frequently cannot afford.” Dr Ó Ingredients: 700g lidded frying/sauté Serve now or reheat tion,” Mr Lane will tell the Oireachtas customers,” he will say. Tuathail, pointed to research from 2016 chicken thigh fillets; pan. Meanwhile, halve, later. finance committee today. Separate He will also update the committee on by UCD and Trinity College Dublin ac- 2 tbsp flour; 2-3 tbsp peel and finely chop Lindsey Bareham enforcement investigations into six preparations for Britain leaving the ademics which showed that when the lenders are in progress. European Union. prescription charges were introduced There are still concerns about the “We have received more than 100 there was a fall in medicine use. culture within the financial sector, Brexit-related applications for authori- A levy of 50 cent per item was intro- COMMENT according to the governor. He will also sation, across a number of sectors,” he duced for medical card holders in 2010 acknowledge the detrimental and “dev- will say. The applicants, which include and rose in previous budgets to €2. Why tackling corruption needs to astating” effect that the failures of banks, investment companies and Daragh Connolly, of the IPU, said lenders have had on customers, includ- commercial and retail insurance, in- people should be focusing on getting become a priority for Ireland ing the loss of homes and properties. tend to sell directly to Irish customers well, “not worrying about how they will ROBERT GILLANDERS, THUNDERER, PAGE 14 The Central Bank conducted an or from Ireland to the EU. pay for their next vital prescription”.

THE WEATHER Please note, some sections of The Times are continued from page 1 to discuss the broadband plan. The said the minister had left himself open available only in the United Kingdom and Ireland Concern over Naughten dinner © TIMES NEWSPAPERS LIMITED, 2018. Published and licensed for spokesman said one of the minister’s to accusations of having been “swayed” distribution in electronic and all other derivative forms by Times Newspapers officials noted the information relayed by Mr McCourt. Ltd, 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF, telephone 020-7782 5000. 11 Printed by Newsprinters (Broxbourne) Limited, Great Cambridge Road, Mr McCourt sought to reassure the by Mr McCourt and passed it on to the Mr Ryan said: “I think the question is Waltham Cross, EN8 8DY and also at Newsprinters (Knowsley) Limited, minister of his commitment to the National Broadband Division upon his what did they discuss, why did he have Kitling Road, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 9HN; Newsprinters (Eurocentral) Limited, Byramsmuir Road, Holytown, Motherwell, ML1 1NP; Johnston Press, process and that his team was taking all return to Dublin. the meeting and how does he avoid 21 Carn Web, Morton 3 Esky Drive, Carn Industrial Estate, Portadown, BT63 5YY; 11 23 Smurfit Kappa News Press Ltd, Kells Industrial Estate, Virginia Road, Kells, necessary measures to expedite However, a source familiar with the accusations that it’s open to him being County Meath, Ireland; KP Services, La Rue Martel, La Rue des Pres Trading matters,” the spokesman said. meeting told The Times that Mr swayed? I’d be interested to know who Estate, St Saviour, Jersey, JE27QR; Europrinter, Av J. Mermoz, Zone Aeropole, 6041 Gosselies, Belgium; Bermont S.A, Av./Portugal, 4 (Centro de Mr Naughten told the Oireachtas Naughten and his officials wanted to else was at that meeting in New York. I 15 Transportes de Coslada), 28820 Coslada, Madrid; Newsprint Italia srl, Via communications committee on Tues- know whether Mr McCourt remained think [releasing the minutes] would be Campania 12, 20098 San Giuliano Milanese, Italy; MOP, Zone Industrielle, 16 16 Avenue De L’Europe, 13127 Vitrolles, Marseilles; ESTETIK YAYINCILIK AS, day that he had a “discussion” with Mr committed to the NBP and sought appropriate. The minister himself 16 Kuscuburnu mevkii bati beton yolu no: 4 yazibasi torbali, Izmir, Turkey; Miller Newsprint Ltd, Miller House, Tarxien Road, Malta Airport, LQA 05 Luqa, McCourt in New York. He told the com- assurances to that end. brought up that they were there and he Malta; Milkro Digital Cyprus Ltd, Ioanni Kranidioti Avenue 206, 2235 Latsia, mittee that he did not express any opin- The revelation that Mr Naughten should definitely share them.” 16 PO Box 24508, 1300 Lefkosia, Cyprus; Milkro Digital Hellas Ltd, 2nd Kilometer 21 Peanias – Markopoullo Ave, Position Nisiza 19400 Koropi, Greece; Omniprint ion about potential changes to the con- attended a private event with Mr Catherine Murphy, the Social Demo- SA, Poligono Industrial, Nave Omniprint, Santa Maria Dell Cami, 7320 sortium as it was not his role to do so. McCourt while in New York came as crats co-leader, accused Mr Naughten Mallorca; Atlas Media Communication, FZ LLC, PO Box 14833, International Media Production Zone, Dubai; Centro Stampa Quotidiani Spa (CSQ) Via The department spokesman last the minister was urged to publish the of having acted “in an inappropriate Dell’Industria 52 25030 Erbusco Italy. night said that the minister did not en- minutes of the meeting and explain manner”. Joan Burton, the Labour TD, For permission to copy articles or headlines for internal information purposes Overcast with outbreaks of rain in contact Newspaper Licensing Agency at PO Box 101, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 gage in the conversation that took place why he had met with the businessman. said the minister had “questions to 1WX, tel 01892 525274, e-mail [email protected]. For all other reproduction and Ireland, but some bright spells may licensing inquiries contact Syndication Department, 1 London Bridge Street, at the dinner, other than to tell the busi- Eamon Ryan, the Green Party leader answer” and called on him to make a develop by noon. Forecast, page 18 London, SE1 9GF, telephone 020-7782 5400, e-mail [email protected] nessman that it would be inappropriate and former communications minister, statement in the Dáil on the matter. ireland edition

friday october 12 2018 thetimes.ie | no 72664 €1.50 (£1.60) IRELAND AND THE WORLD Early election holds no fears Film&Music for Varadkar News and reviews of the latest releases Times2 David Davin-Power, page 18 Callinan blamed for smear as garda whistleblower vindicated

Niamh Lyons, Jennifer Bray chestrated a smear campaign, includ- tion of Frances Fitzgerald, the former Nóirín O’Sullivan, Mr Callinan’s suc- former garda press officer, was also Ellen Coyne ing false sex abuse claims, against the justice minister, in relation to her cessor, played any “hand, act or part” in denounced in the tribunal report for his whistleblower — a scandal that almost knowledge of the garda legal strategy at the smear campaign but heavily criti- part in smearing the garda whistle- Martin Callinan, the former garda led to the collapse of the government the O’Higgins Commission. It said her cised discipline and management blower. It said that he was a witness commissioner, has been excoriated for last year. Mr Justice Peter Charleton decision to resign last November was a structures within the force. whose “credibility was completely smearing and denigrating Sergeant praised the integrity and fortitude of selfless act carried out in the national The tribunal might have been undermined by his own bitterness”. Maurice McCabe in the third interim Sergeant McCabe and said he “had the interest. Opposition TDs stood by their avoided completely, the report said, if The report said Mr Callinan was part report of the Disclosures Tribunal. interests of the people of Ireland upper- calls for her to resign, saying she had Tusla had explained its creation of a of a “campaign of calumny” against Mr The inquiry was established to in- most in his mind” at all times. lost the confidence of the Dáil. false rape claim against Mr McCabe. McCabe and he was actively aided by vestigate claims that garda chiefs or- The tribunal accepted the explana- The judge found no evidence that Superintendent David Taylor, the Continued on page 7, col 1 Dog stadium Broadband plan in crisis sale at twice market rate after Naughten resigns ‘a disgrace’ Jennifer Bray Minister held ‘four extra meetings’ with businessman Ireland Deputy Political Editor ANDREW DOWNES/XPOSURE Peter O’Dwyer The state’s purchase of a former grey- Senior Ireland Business Reporter hound stadium for almost twice the value placed on it by an estate agent has The National Broadband Plan was been called a “disgrace” at a powerful plunged into further crisis yesterday as Dáil committee. Denis Naughten resigned amid con- Opposition TDs demanded answers cerns that the project was compro- as to why the Department of Education mised by a series of private meetings he paid the Irish Greyhound Board (IGB) had with the last remaining bidder. €23 million for the site in Harold’s In a highly charged speech the Cross. As disclosed by The Times, Sav- former communications minister told ills, the estate agent hired by the board, the Dáil that the taoiseach had lost con- valued the land at €12 million if it was fidence in him and that he had been to be used for housing and €6 million if asked to reflect on his position. It came it remained as land for recreation use. after a series of revelations in The Times At the Public Accounts Committee about Mr Naughten’s contact with (PAC) yesterday, David Cullinane, a David McCourt, the preferred bidder Sinn Féin TD, said that the price paid for the contract. “just happened to match the €21.3 mil- Leo Varadkar said last night that he lion debts accumulated by the Irish had not been informed of an additional Greyhound Board”. He added: “I raised four private dinners between the pair concerns at the time that the sale price and that this had left the former minis- could be perceived as a bailout. The ter open to allegations of a conflict of news of the valuations done by Savills interest. The deepening controversy certainly doesn’t assuage those fears. casts further doubt on the troubled “The Department of Education and infrastructure project. the Greyhound Board need to appear Mr Varadkar yesterday ordered a before the committee to explain just review of the procurement process for what went on here.” the state contract to construct the Marc MacSharry, a Fianna Fáil TD, €1 billion rural broadband network. said it was a disgrace and told the “I have no doubt that his intentions committee: “If this was a bailout for were honourable at all points,” he said Bord Na nGon [IGB], call it that, but of Mr Naughten. don’t treat the people like fools.” “But I do believe he left himself open The purchase of the stadium was to allegations of a conflict of interest subject to the site being rezoned for and an inappropriate relationship with school use, which was approved by Du- Mr McCourt, which could have in turn blin city council last year. Land used for brought the process into question, thus schools would generally cost the same potentially jeopardising the project in or less than land used for housing. its entirety. Ultimately as minister he Documents show that Seán Ó Fogh- had a decision-making role,” the David McCourt entertained Denis Naughten at his house while a €1 billion infrastructure contract was under consideration lú, the secretary-general of the Depart- taoiseach told the Dáil. ment of Education, told the PAC last The resignation stunned govern- taoiseach indicated that he did not have Mr McCourt during the procurement ESB. Details of the meeting in Manhat- year that its offer of €23 million was ment and opposition politicians yester- confidence in him. No member of the process. Last week The Times revealed tan released by the Department of based on an assessment of the site by day and has left the passage of the opposition had sought his resignation. that the pair had had a private dinner in Communications showed that a wide- the Valuation Office. Its value of minority government’s budget on a There were no senior government New York in July. ranging discussion was held. €23 million was provided in April last knife-edge. ministers in the chamber during Mr Mr McCourt, the head of Granahan A copy of the NBP communication year, a month after Savills’ valuation. Mr Naughten announced his resig- Naughten’s emotional address, after McCourt, is the lead bidder in the last protocol first reported by this news- Shane Cassells, a Fianna Fáil TD, nation in an extraordinary Dáil state- which he left immediately without remaining consortium vying for the paper showed that the minister and his said: “The thing that really galls me, did ment, saying he had been left in an answering opposition questions. lucrative state contract after the recent officials had contravened the rules of the Department of Education get value “impossible, stark position” that no His decision came after a week of withdrawals of Eir and Siro, a joint the procurement process, which state for money? I would like to see the politician ever wanted to be in after the intense scrutiny over his contact with venture between Vodafone and the Continued on page 2, col 3 methodology that they used.” 2 1R M Friday October 12 2018 | the times News TODAY’S EDITION Power cuts and school closures Corporate tax Irish join French Trump vows to battle with EU ‘commonwealth’ make China pay feared as Storm Callum arrives Ireland’s battle to Ireland may not be President Trump said retain its present rate considered a French- there was “a lot more of corporate tax speaking land but it to do” to hurt China as Katie O’Neill Ireland Reporter vened by Eoghan Murphy, the housing mute, according to Ms Ryan. There against EU opposition was officially allowed tensions rose after an minister, at 3pm yesterday in prepara- were also fears of a storm surge, coastal is like Sparta’s battle to join an international alleged Chinese spy Power outages, travel disruption and tion for the storm. The meeting was at- flooding and overtopping of waves with the Persians, organisation of was charged with school closures are likely in parts of the tended by representatives from govern- around Atlantic coasts, due to the Paddy Cosgrave francophone nations stealing US technology country today as coastal counties are ment agencies including the Office of coinciding high spring tides. has said. Page 4 yesterday. Page 10 secrets. Page 22 battered by winds of up to 130km/h Public Works and Met Éireann. The Department of Education said brought by Storm Callum. “Minister Murphy has contacted that schools and other institutions in Met Éireann issued a status-orange local authorities to ensure that the the areas covered by the orange warn- COMMENT wind warning yesterday for 13 coastal necessary arrangements are in place to ing should remain vigilant. The depart- counties and a status-yellow wind ensure the safety of rough sleepers,” a ment advised that schools should err on Hate speech laws allow the new dominant warning for 13 interior counties. statement from the NECG said. the side of caution and use their own The orange-level warnings for Cork, “Cold weather plans have been put in judgment in the interests of child safety culture to decide which views are acceptable Kerry, Dublin, Louth, Wexford, Wick- place in Dublin and other main urban when considering whether or not to re- EOIN O’MALLEY, PAGE 13 low, Meath and Waterford will expire at centres. Extra emergency beds have main open. 9am today while those for Donegal, been put in place and outreach teams The Commission for Aviation Regu- Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Clare were have been on the streets to engage with lation warned that passengers flying in Soyuz rocket Chequers threat ‘Don’t write off due to remain in place until 5pm. rough sleepers.” and out of Irish airports today were A status-orange weather warning is The NECG was due to meet again to- likely to experience significant disrup- crashes to Earth to Irish growth English chances’ issued by Met Éireann for wind speeds day at 10am to review the impact of tions. Bus Éireann announced a num- Manned space flight Irish growth will be 1.7 Rob Kearney, the that have the capacity to produce dan- Storm Callum and to co-ordinate any ber of delays, alterations and cancella- has been suspended per cent lower over a Leinster full back, has gerous and stormy conditions that may necessary response. tions to services in the west last night. after a Soyuz rocket five-year period than cautioned against constitute a risk to life and property. Siobhán Ryan, a Met Éireann fore- The ESB said some customers could suffered a serious fault, it would have been if dismissing the chances The public is advised to stay away caster, said yesterday that the storm lose power supply as a result of the sending its two crew Britain leaves the EU of English clubs taking from coastal areas for the period of the was forecast to advance to the west of storm and advised the public to ensure members plummeting under the Chequers part in this year’s orange-level warning and to anticipate Ireland overnight and to track north- their phones are fully charged and that back to Earth. Both plan, the Central Bank Heineken Champions strong cross winds and other hazards wards. they have a torch available. survived. Page 25 warned. Page 29 Cup. Page 52 such as falling trees while driving. The strongest winds were expected Galway city council worked to dis- The National Emergency Co- to have occurred last night and this tribute around 5,000 sandbags ordination Group (NECG) was con- morning during the rush hour com- throughout the city yesterday. COMMENT 13 UK NEWS 19 SPORT 38 LETTERS 16 WORLD 22 CROSSWORD 52 LEADING ARTICLES 17 BUSINESS 29 TV & RADIO TIMES2

FOLLOW US Talk to DUP over Brexit, Coveney told thetimesIE thetimesIE Ellen Coyne Senior Ireland Reporter statement that opposition to a sea bor- nier, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, DINNER mixing bowl with der was a “blood-red line” for her party. said this week that a deal on the Irish TONIGHT water. Heat the oil to Simon Coveney has come under “[The DUP] is latching on to old ar- border was within reach. He said that 190C. Arrange 4 or 5 pressure to talk to the DUP over its guments and, unfortunately, old lan- regulatory checks would have to form Greek fish fingers sheets of kitchen threat to block a Brexit deal on the Irish guage by mentioning ‘blood-red lines’, part of the backstop deal to prevent the with minted pea paper on a plate and border. saying it will not be treated differently return of a hard border, whatever the puree have warmed dinner The unionist party has threatened to than others in the United Kingdom. nature of Brexit. Here’s a trick picked up plates at the ready. bring down Theresa May’s government This is highly politically charged and The EU and UK had agreed that in Greece for giving Using tongs, lift one if she makes a compromise deal with unnecessary language,” he said. these checks cannot be performed at fish a batter-effect fillet of fish, shake off Brussels next week. It is understood the He appealed to Mr Coveney to meet the border and the EU proposes to without making batter. excess vinegar and UK and European Union are close to an the DUP and discuss the issue. The tán- carry them out “in the least intrusive A quick marinade in Ingredients: 6 fillets wipe through the flour. agreement that would involve checks aiste said yesterday that the unionist way possible”, he said. cider vinegar gives the sole or plaice; 3 tbsp Shake off excess, then on exports from Britain to Northern party was “aware” of the Irish govern- Sammy Wilson, the DUP’s spokes- fish a surprising cider vinegar; flour for dip the fish in the Ireland but not in the other direction. ment’s position and that he needed to man on Brexit, said yesterday that the amount of tart yet dusting; groundnut or water, give another Arlene Foster’s party, which is prop- speak to more than one party. The Irish current Brexit proposal would leave interesting flavour sunflower oil for deep shake and wipe ping up the Conservative government, government was in “constant contact” Northern Ireland as an “outpost of the while a double dusting frying; lemon wedges. through the flour. Give has threatened to vote against its with the DUP, he said. EU rather than part of UK”. He told of flour creates a faux Split the (skinned) fish a final shake and budget on October 29 if there is any “The DUP is a very important voice RTÉ’s News at One that while his party batter. I like this with a fillets lengthways, arrange on a plate. Fry deal that treats Northern Ireland dif- in Northern Ireland but it does not did not want to vote against Mrs May’s variation on mushy following the line of in batches, so the ferently to the rest of the UK. represent a majority there,” he said. budget it was concerned at the way ne- peas made by the fish. Pour the batter quickly crisps; it Dara Calleary, deputy leader of Fian- The tánaiste said the Brexit negotia- gotiations were going. He claimed it liquidising 300g boiled vinegar into a dish and should take no longer na Fáil, said he was concerned by the tions were at a “very delicate stage” and would leave Northern Ireland ruled by petits pois with a wipe the fish through than a couple of DUP’s response, including Ms Foster’s that time was running out. Michel Bar- Brussels, rather than by London. teaspoonful of mint it. Leave piled up in the minutes. Rest on the sauce and spoonful of dish while you prepare kitchen paper before Greek yoghurt. everything else. Sift 4 plating with a lemon continued from page 1 has been asked to assess whether the review of his role in the procurement Serves 4 Prep 15 min tbsp flour on to a large wedge. Naughten resigns process has been compromised. process, but added that Mr Varadkar Cook 15 min dinner plate. Half fill a Lindsey Bareham Richard Bruton, the education min- had rejected these suggestions. that all queries from qualified bidders ister, will take on the communications “If I was a cynic, which I am not, I be- must be made through the eTenders portfolio on a temporary basis. lieve the outcome is more about opin- procurement website, with responses Brendan Howlin, the Labour leader, ion polls than telecom poles. It is more COMMENT via the same system. said the future of the broadband plan about optics than fibre optics,” he said. They also state that department offi- was in doubt and called on the tao- Questions were also raised last night We need an ‘all of society’ approach cials must not “at any time” discuss the iseach to set out a clear direction as to about the role of Pat Breen, Fine Gael’s procurement process outside its broad- how it was to be put back in place as Clare TD and minister of state for trade. to tackling plastic pollution in Ireland band team. soon as possible. The Dáil was told yesterday that he EMER CURRIE, PAGE 14 According to the taoiseach, the “After the mire of controversy more organised and attended one of the pri- former communications minister in- than 20 years ago led to the Moriarty vate dinners between Mr McCourt and formed him on Wednesday night of Tribunal we repeatedly set out strict the minister. Please note, some sections of The Times are another private dinner at Mr McCourt’s codes of conduct for how to handle any “I have no role in the National Broad- THE WEATHER available only in the United Kingdom and Ireland © TIMES NEWSPAPERS LIMITED, 2018. Published and licensed for home last year before telling him yes- contract of the state and certainly any band Plan, its rollout or its procure- distribution in electronic and all other derivative forms by Times Newspapers terday morning of “at least” three more major procurement, right down to indi- ment,” he said last night in a statement. Ltd, 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF, telephone 020-7782 5000. 14 Printed by Newsprinters (Broxbourne) Limited, Great Cambridge Road, dinners. There were no officials present vidual projects. It is crystal clear to Sources indicated last night that Mr Waltham Cross, EN8 8DY and also at Newsprinters (Knowsley) Limited, and no minutes were taken, he added. everybody that decision-makers, and Varadkar is unlikely to sack Mr Breen. Kitling Road, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 9HN; Newsprinters (Eurocentral) Limited, Byramsmuir Road, Holytown, Motherwell, ML1 1NP; Johnston Press, Mr Naughten did not dispute that the ultimately the minister is responsible in Last week Peter Fitzpatrick, a former 44 Carn Web, Morton 3 Esky Drive, Carn Industrial Estate, Portadown, BT63 5YY; meetings took place but said he told the a department, cannot have direct con- Fine Gael TD, resigned from the party. 14 38 Smurfit Kappa News Press Ltd, Kells Industrial Estate, Virginia Road, Kells, County Meath, Ireland; KP Services, La Rue Martel, La Rue des Pres Trading taoiseach about all of them on Wednes- tact with bidders,” he added. He has not confirmed whether he will Estate, St Saviour, Jersey, JE27QR; Europrinter, Av J. Mermoz, Zone Aeropole, 6041 Gosselies, Belgium; Bermont S.A, Av./Portugal, 4 (Centro de day night. Micheál Martin, the Fianna Fáil back the budget after criticising the 16 Transportes de Coslada), 28820 Coslada, Madrid; Newsprint Italia srl, Via “I deeply regret that these events leader, said he was “flabbergasted” as VAT rate increase. Campania 12, 20098 San Giuliano Milanese, Italy; MOP, Zone Industrielle, 17 17 Avenue De L’Europe, 13127 Vitrolles, Marseilles; ESTETIK YAYINCILIK AS, have happened,” Mr Varadkar said. were other opposition members that The taoiseach may now attempt to Kuscuburnu mevkii bati beton yolu no: 4 yazibasi torbali, Izmir, Turkey; Miller 19 Newsprint Ltd, Miller House, Tarxien Road, Malta Airport, LQA 05 Luqa, “But I believe that in resigning, Denis “the ultimate decision-maker” was garner support for the financial meas- Malta; Milkro Digital Cyprus Ltd, Ioanni Kranidioti Avenue 206, 2235 Latsia, has acted in the public interest. I am de- meeting one of the bidders. ures from other independent TDs. 17 PO Box 24508, 1300 Lefkosia, Cyprus; Milkro Digital Hellas Ltd, 2nd Kilometer termined to see the National Broad- Mary Lou McDonald, the Sinn Féin Paschal Donohoe, the finance minis- 23 Peanias – Markopoullo Ave, Position Nisiza 19400 Koropi, Greece; Omniprint SA, Poligono Industrial, Nave Omniprint, Santa Maria Dell Cami, 7320 band Plan through to completion.” leader, said there was no doubt that the ter, said that yesterday’s events were a Mallorca; Atlas Media Communication, FZ LLC, PO Box 14833, International Media Production Zone, Dubai; Centro Stampa Quotidiani Spa (CSQ) Via Paschal Donohoe, the finance minis- process had been compromised. good reason for Fine Gael and Fianna Dell’Industria 52 25030 Erbusco Italy. ter, said he accepted the taoiseach’s Mr Naughten said that he had offer- Fáil to hold talks swiftly to extend the For permission to copy articles or headlines for internal information purposes Cloudy with rain across the south contact Newspaper Licensing Agency at PO Box 101, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 account of when Mr Naughten told him ed to transfer responsibility for the confidence-and-supply deal to 2020. 1WX, tel 01892 525274, e-mail [email protected]. For all other reproduction and of Ireland. Showers and sunny spells licensing inquiries contact Syndication Department, 1 London Bridge Street, of the dinners. Peter Smyth, the inde- NBP to Seán Kyne, the junior minister, Fateful dinner, page 11 in the north. Forecast, page 18 London, SE1 9GF, telephone 020-7782 5400, e-mail [email protected] pendent process auditor for the NBP, and had proposed an independent Leading article, page 17

ireland edition

tuesday march 5 2019 thetimes.ie | no 72786 €2 (£1.80) IRELAND AND THE WORLD How to be woke INSIDE Read the book Smile! TIMES2 everyone’s Should you really whiten your teeth? talking about Varadkar condemns ‘oddballs’ over suspicious package hoax

Niamh Lyons Ireland Political Editor department were evacuated for two staff members could get caught in the could be a receptionist, a security guard 12.20pm and could be seen entering the hours while a Defence Forces bomb cross-fire if such incidents continued. or a constituency worker. If you want to building in protective chemical suits. “Oddballs” who send suspicious disposal team dealt with the suspected “My particular concern would be for come after us then come after us but The staff who were exposed to the pow- packages to politicians should realise hazardous material. department staff who open these let- don’t come after our staff or our der were quarantined as a precaution. that they do not open their own post, The substance was tested on site and ters. I’m not sure what sort of oddballs families,” he added. Despite the health department evac- Leo Varadkar has said. found not to be hazardous, but the send suspicious packages in the post Gardaí, fire brigade as well as the uation, staff could still be seen inside Simon Harris was the victim of a incident had caused significant but they should be well aware that it is Defence Forces units were dispatched nearby businesses, including shops and hoax yesterday after an envelope disruption to the department, where not the politician that is going to be to the incident at the Miesian Plaza cafés, behind the garda cordon. containing white powder was sent to his 700 people work, and the city centre. opening the mail,” Mr Varadkar said. “It building on Baggot Street. The bomb The incident ended at 2:30pm after office. The health minister and his The taoiseach said he feared that is someone who does a normal job; it disposal unit was deployed at about Continued on page 2, col 5 LUIS MONTEIRO/ROYAL ASCOT Why the Memo casts world seems happier when doubt over you’re older

Tom Whipple Science Editor Smile and the world smiles with you. If you assume that the world is smiling at minister’s you even when it’s not, then you’re probably enjoying a happy retirement. A study into emotion perception could explain why older people consist- ently report greater wellbeing: with age we stop noticing when other people are hospital line angry but stay just as good at spotting when they are happy. “We perceive anger and fear less and Health executive warned of budget implications less, and happiness just as much,” Laura Germine, from Harvard Medical Peter O’Dwyer Senior Ireland Reporter could have been sought as part of the School, said. “So, over time, people may estimates process in advance of the just view everything more positively.” Simon Harris was under more pressure budget,” a spokeswoman added. Her research, published in the last night to explain his decision not to Alan Kelly, the Labour health Journal of Experimental Psychology: tell cabinet colleagues about the rising spokesman, said that Mr Curran’s General, asked almost 10,000 people to cost of the National Children’s Hospital comments and the HSE’s explanation complete an online test in which they before the budget. contradicted Mr Harris’s assertion that were given pairs of computer-generat- An internal memo shows that an the cost of the hospital would have had ed faces displaying different levels of HSE executive warned that details of no bearing on last year’s budget. anger, fear or happiness. They had to the project’s cost would have to be sub- “This certainly raises questions for say in which the emotion was stronger. mitted in advance of last October’s bud- the minister for health and his depart- During childhood, the ability to dis- get to “ensure funding” for the project. ment,” Mr Kelly said. “Mr Curran clear- tinguish all emotions rose, with a burst The health minister has defended his ly was of the belief that by September in our perception of anger and fear dur- decision not to tell Leo Varadkar or Pas- they would have to inform the budget- ing adolescence. Professor Germine chal Donohoe, the public expenditure ary process and this has been restated said that this made sense. “Think of minister and finance minister, about by the HSE. This contradicts the posi- being 13 and how awful it is,” she said. the over-runs in advance because the tion taken by the minister and the de- “People are gaining the ability to detect soaring cost was not “relevant” to those partment. How can we have confidence changes in social disapproval at a time discussions. that the budgetary process articulated when it is really salient.” Jim Curran, HSE’s head of estates, by the minister and the department was Perceptions of all three emotions told a meeting of the joint construction accurate in the first place?” peak at about 30. After that, our ability and finance subcommittee last May Stephen Donnelly, Fianna Fáil to distinguish fine gradations of fear that the capital programme would have health spokesman, said it was “obvious- and anger diminish. Professor Germine to be given to government ahead of the ly untrue” to say that the cost over-runs said that it was not clear why, although budget to ensure funding was secured. would not have had any impact on the declining cognition, or even declining In minutes of the meeting seen by budget and described Mr Harris’ vision, are possibilities. Neither expla- The Times, Mr Curran warned commit- comments as “utterly disingenuous”. nation, though, fits with what happens tee members that “the capital pro- Mr Harris was told of a potential to happiness perception, which defies gramme for the children’s hospital €191 million over-run in August and the other effects of ageing on the body needs to be submitted by mid-Septem- was also informed then that BAM to remain strong until we are 70. ber to ensure funding prior to the Octo- Ireland had submitted a cost claim for a The question is, if we are only happier ber [20]18 government budget”. Asked further €200 million. He has said he did because we misperceive the world, is about his comments, the HSE said that not inform the taoiseach or Mr Dono- that a good thing? “On the one hand he raised the issue to advise committee hoe until November, and that the bud- people are not as approving of you as members of “the timeframe of the bud- get for capital projects had been set in you see them to be,” Professor Germine get discussions” with the Department February last year and budget negotia- said. “But on the other hand, is detect- of Public Expenditure and Reform. tions last autumn were focused solely ing that in them really healthier? If you “If the additional costs and funding on “day-to-day” spending issues. could really tell what people were requirements were known in advance The subcommittee reports to the Flair for style The racing tips that really matter — what to wear at Ascot this thinking about you all the time you’d be of the budget, the additional funding Continued on page 2, col 3 year — are released today. Full-length jumpsuits, however floral, are welcome miserable. Life would be awful.” 2 1R M Tuesday March 5 2019 | the times News TODAY’S EDITION EU will ‘happily’ reassure UK Abortion fee for Extradition of Call for memos North women ‘Whacker’ Duffy on Facebook to get withdrawal deal passed Women in Northern A former Republican Politicians are seeking Ireland will have to paramilitary will be Facebook documents cover the cost of extradited to the North which show that the Niamh Lyons Ireland Political Editor agreement over the line. But from day again, MPs will be asked to vote the pregnancy tests, scans to continue his life company believed one we have been straight about a few following day on whether they want to and abortion drugs if term for murder after Enda Kenny would use Leo Varadkar has said Brexit talks are things and among those is that Brexit leave the EU without a deal. they want to travel for he finishes time in the Ireland’s presidency of in a very “sensitive phase” but that the cannot lead, under any circumstances, If both previous votes are lost, there a termination in Republic for a separate the EU to lobby on the EU are happy to offer clarifications and to the emergence of a hard border will be another vote on Thursday next Ireland. Page 4 offence. Page 5 its behalf. Page 10 assurances to get the withdrawal between Ireland and Northern Ireland. week on whether parliament wants to agreement over the line in Britain. “The backstop is a means to an end, seek a “short, limited extension to Arti- The taoiseach said that Ireland has but it’s a really important end and that cle 50” — delaying the UK’s departure COMMENT been “very flexible and very reason- is a legally-binding assurance that there beyond the March 29 deadline. able” in helping the UK government to won’t be a hard border on the island.” The delay would give extra time to Reading is a pleasure not a race to get resolve its problems which, he said, A spokesman for Theresa May, the reach an agreement with Brussels that were of Britain’s own making. British prime minister, last night de- could be accepted by MPs, but Mrs May through as many books as you can Geoffrey Cox, the British attorney- clined to discuss reports Mr Cox has stressed that it would not take the JASON O’MAHONY, PAGE 13 general, and Stephen Barclay, the Brit- dropped attempts to get a time limit for prospect of a no-deal off the table. ish Brexit secretary, return to Brussels the backstop or a unilateral exit mecha- At the weekend Michel Barnier, the today to continue their efforts to secure nism. He said the UK was “definitely EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, indicated Russian general Builders resist Kenny: playing legally-binding changes to the back- making progress” after talks over the he did not believe the UK will have stop. Brexiteers fear the UK will be past two weeks with the European enough time to approve the deal by the warns of US plot 12% pay claim is in the blood trapped permanently by the arrange- Commission but there was work to do. scheduled exit date. He suggested a President Putin’s Unions representing Stephen Kenny, the ment designed to keep the border open. The DUP and the European Re- “technical extension” of up to two military chief has construction workers Ireland Under-21 boss “We are entering quite a sensitive search Group (ERG), a Conservative months may be needed, remarks said that Russia must have called for pay who is due to graduate phase now over the next week or two as group of hardline Eurosceptics, have echoed by Simon Coveney yesterday. increasingly threaten rises of 12 per cent into the senior post we approach the next round of votes in made it clear they will not support Mrs Mr Coveney said: “We need to see its enemies in the West over three years, a next year, is totally the House of Commons and the Euro- May’s withdrawal agreement in the how the British parliamentary system or risk being attacked demand that has met against naturalisation pean Council meeting the week after Commons vote next week without responds. Even if there is agreement on by an “aggressive” with resistance from spreading from rugby that,” the taoiseach said yesterday as he legally binding measures. the withdrawal deal, there would be a United States. Page 24 the industry. Page 31 into football. Page 56 hosted Saulius Skvernelis, the Lithua- In January the Commons rejected lot of pressure on Westminster to get nian prime minister, in Dublin. the withdrawal agreement by 432 to the legislation passed by the end of the “We are happy to offer further clarifi- 202 votes. MPs will have another month so there may be a need for a COMMENT 13 UK NEWS 19 SPORT 42 cations and further assurances if that opportunity to vote on the deal on technical extension to do that.” LETTERS 16 WORLD 24 CROSSWORD 56 can help the UK government get the Tuesday. If Mrs May’s deal is rejected Politics, pages 20-21 LEADING ARTICLES 17 BUSINESS 31 TV & RADIO TIMES2

FOLLOW US continued from page 1 thetimesIE thetimesIE Post-Brexit day of protest Suspicious package hoax DINNER Stir the mushroom the powder was found to be safe. It was TONIGHT mix into the onions handed over to the gardaí for further and cook, stirring, for targets border crossings examination. Some of the department’s Duck or chicken a few minutes. Chop civil servants returned to work. and mushroom the meat into dolly Rebecca Black call to protest. “There is a solution to The health minister was in the ragu with gnocchi mixture-size pieces. the problem, that is the conversation building at the time but it is understood Mushrooms, a hint Stir it into the A group of residents has called for mass that has already been mainstreamed that he was not in the room when the of chilli and fennel mushroom, and cook demonstrations along the Irish border about the kind of constitutional change package was opened. seed with tomato gently until it turns the day after Brexit. that will take place I believe on the Mr Harris tweeted: “Thank you to purée and red wine approx 250ml; 1 tbsp dark brown. When Border Communities Against Brexit, island of Ireland and that is the reunifi- the emergency services for their darken the meat. tomato purée; 500g evenly sealed add supported by pro-Remain political cation of our country,” she said. diligence today in responding to an Gnocchi is lighter than gnocchi di potate; tomato purée, wine parties, unveiled a billboard at Colum Eastwood, the SDLP leader, incident at my department. The safety pasta when there are knob of butter. and a little water, Stormont announcing the planned day said that there was no such thing as a of staff must always be paramount. pancakes for pudding. Chop the onion. Heat cooking until thick and of protest with just 25 days before the good Brexit, but that the backstop, a Today was a difficult day for them all Serves 4 Prep 35 min the oil in a sauté pan creamy; the duck UK is due to leave the European Union. guarantee to avoid a hard border, was and particularly those who work so Cook 30-45 min and stir in the onion. taking slightly longer. Declan Fearon, a spokesman for the the best form of protection. closely with me in my office.” Ingredients: 1 onion; Cook, stirring often, for Taste and adjust the group, unveiled planned demonstra- “People have struggled for far too Traffic across Dublin city centre was 1 ½ tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp a few minutes then seasoning. Cook the tions at crossing points in Co Down, Co long to have peace and democracy in severely disrupted with much of Baggot fennel seed; generous add lightly crushed gnocchi in boiling, Fermanagh, Co Tyrone and in Derry. Ireland and we are not about to give it Street closed off. pinch chilli flakes; fennel seed and chilli. salted water. Drain as “Brexit and a hard border have the up because a few people on the hard Mr Harris was the subject of an anti- 200g closed cup Cook for a few more they rise to the surface potential to cause devastation to our right of the Conservative party or the austerity protest outside his home in mushrooms; 1 garlic minutes while you and toss with butter economy, our industries, jobs and DUP aren’t prepared to protect what Delgany, Co Wicklow, last month clove; few sprigs flat- wipe mushrooms then and rest of parsley. Stir especially to the farming sector, to the we have achieved,” he said. where he was trapped inside with his leaf parsley; 2 Barbary blitz briefly with the gnocchi and sauce free movement of people crossing the Stephen Farry, deputy leader of the wife and newborn daughter. The pro- duck fillets or 4 coarsely chopped together. Serve with border every day in our communities to Alliance Party, said that Brexit was “not testers posted a message online saying chicken thigh fillets; garlic and half the grated Parmesan. work, study or to trade,” he said. an orange versus green issue”, but they would target the homes of TDs, large glass of red wine, finely chopped parsley. Lindsey Bareham He added:“We are asking everyone affected people from all backgrounds. councillors and judges to show their living along the border on either side to “If we have the opportunity to stop dissatisfaction with the government. make an effort to attend your nearest Brexit we should take that through a They said their protest was peaceful. demonstration. We are calling all trade People’s Vote, but the absolute bottom Mr Harris later condemned the Fing- COMMENT unions, all representative groups, civic line is that we have to bank the back- al Battalion Against Austerity group for leaders and citizens to join with us and stop. It is not something that can be invading his privacy and described the Economic growth alone is not going demonstrate our anger at being taken renegotiated, it is the bare minimum to action as “intimidation”. The group has out of the European Union.” protect both the rights and the eco- also staged protests outside the homes to solve Ireland’s problems Martina Anderson, the Sinn Féin nomy and people’s way of life. Equally, of Mr Varadkar and Richard Bruton, THUNDERER, SEAN HEALY, PAGE 14 MEP for Northern Ireland, backed the we must avoid a no-deal at all costs.” the environment minister.

THE WEATHER continued from page 1 ful to know the figures earlier. How- maintain that it was not relevant to the Please note, some sections of The Times are Doubt over hospital line ever, it would not have had any impact budget process is to hold the Irish available only in the United Kingdom and Ireland © TIMES NEWSPAPERS LIMITED, 2019. Published and licensed for on negotiations. The capital budget is people in contempt,” he said. distribution in electronic and all other derivative forms by Times Newspapers National Paediatric Hospital Develop- multi-annual and was set in February Mr Donohoe last month proposed 6 Ltd, 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF, telephone 020-7782 5000. Printed by Newsprinters (Broxbourne) Limited, Great Cambridge Road, ment Board, which is responsible for 2018 for Project Ireland 2040.” €100 million in cuts to cabinet in an Waltham Cross, EN8 8DY and also at Newsprinters (Knowsley) Limited, delivering the project. When Mr Harris On on RTÉ 1 on February attempt to plug the funding gap and Kitling Road, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 9HN; Newsprinters (Eurocentral) Prime Time 3 Limited, Byramsmuir Road, Holytown, Motherwell, ML1 1NP; Johnston Press, informed the taoiseach and Mr Dono- 7, Mr Harris sought to explain why “he ensure that construction of the hospital 5 21 Carn Web, Morton 3 Esky Drive, Carn Industrial Estate, Portadown, BT63 5YY; Smurfit Kappa News Press Ltd, Kells Industrial Estate, Virginia Road, Kells, hoe on November 9 that the cost of the didn’t believe” the project’s cost over- could proceed on schedule. County Meath, Ireland; KP Services, La Rue Martel, La Rue des Pres Trading project had increased, the over-runs runs were “relevant to budget discus- Asked why Mr Curran was advising Estate, St Saviour, Jersey, JE27QR; Europrinter, Av J. Mermoz, Zone 10 Aeropole, 6041 Gosselies, Belgium; Bermont S.A, Av./Portugal, 4 (Centro de had ballooned to €450 million. sions”. “We were having budget negoti- the subcommittee of the timeframe of Transportes de Coslada), 28820 Coslada, Madrid; Newsprint Italia srl, Via 11 Mr Donohoe has said that it would ations about the day-to-day issues — budget negotiations with Mr Dono- 11 Campania 12, 20098 San Giuliano Milanese, Italy; MOP, Zone Industrielle, Avenue De L’Europe, 13127 Vitrolles, Marseilles; Miller Newsprint Ltd, Miller have been helpful to know of the there were huge expenditure issues in hoe’s department given that Mr Harris 11 House, Tarxien Road, Malta Airport, LQA 05 Luqa, Malta; Milkro Digital Cyprus Ltd, Ioanni Kranidioti Avenue 206, 2235 Latsia, PO Box 24508, 1300 overruns sooner but Mr Harris acted health as everyone knows,” he said. has said the hospital project was not 12 Lefkosia, Cyprus; Milkro Digital Hellas Ltd, 2nd Kilometer Peanias – correctly by ascertaining the full extent Mr Donnelly said the over-run could relevant to budget 2018, the HSE said it 20 Markopoullo Ave, Position Nisiza 19400 Koropi, Greece; Omniprint SA, Poligono Industrial, Nave Omniprint, Santa Maria Dell Cami, 7320 Mallorca; of the over-run before briefing him. have been factored into his party’s would not be in a position to respond Atlas Media Communication, FZ LLC, PO Box 14833, International Media A spokeswoman for the minister said budget discussions as part of the until this morning. Production Zone, Dubai; Centro Stampa Quotidiani Spa (CSQ) Via Dell’Industria 52 25030 Erbusco Italy. yesterday: “There is no contradiction. confidence and supply agreement with A spokeswoman for the Department Scattered showers in northern and For permission to copy articles or headlines for internal information purposes The taoiseach and minister for health the government, had it been brought to of Expenditure and Reform said that contact Newspaper Licensing Agency at PO Box 101, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 central areas but dry over the south 1WX, tel 01892 525274, e-mail [email protected]. For all other reproduction and and minister for public expenditure, light sooner. “Obviously [it] would have she was not able to respond in time for licensing inquiries contact Syndication Department, 1 London Bridge Street, before rain arrives. Forecast, page 18 London, SE1 9GF, telephone 020-7782 5400, e-mail [email protected] have all stated it would have been help- had an impact. For the government to publication.