Creates a fast-track approval system for a strategic gas reserve at or near Cahiracon, Co. Clare, to help protect Ireland’s energy supply in an emergency. It lets the project bypass normal planning rules but still requires environmental checks, public input, and court challenge rights.
Keeps the rail accident investigation unit on a firm legal footing, lets it investigate accidents on all types of railways, and updates the rules on drink and drug testing for railway workers. It also modernises railway safety law and extends access to some related records under freedom of information rules.
Sets up a new office to handle cross-border requests for electronic evidence in criminal cases, and makes online service providers name a contact in the EU to receive and comply with those requests. It also strengthens Ireland’s rules for dealing with terrorist content online and allows fines for providers that do not cooperate.
Gives the Transport Minister power to lift or change Dublin Airport’s passenger limit after environmental checks and public consultation, if the cap is harming the economy, connectivity or Ireland’s reputation. It also bars future passenger caps in planning decisions and helps protect Dublin Airport’s growth while keeping environmental safeguards in place.
Labour’s Bill seeks to overhaul Ireland’s waste system by letting local authorities appoint a single collection operator, requiring landlord contracts and service coverage, while the Government opposes Second Stage.
Sets up Ireland’s main AI regulator, gives legal force to the EU AI rules here, and gives authorities powers to monitor, inspect and punish unsafe or unlawful AI use. It also updates other laws so regulators can share information and enforce the new rules properly.
Expands Ireland’s terrorism laws to match an EU anti-terrorism directive by creating offences for receiving terrorism training, travelling for terrorism, and organising such travel, while also broadening rules on online incitement and related cyber offences. It matters because it closes legal gaps and increases penalties, including up to 10 years’ imprisonment.
Garda powers to stop and search people, vehicles, homes and electronic devices would be put into one clear modern system, with rules on warrants, records and handling privileged material. It would also strengthen legal rights in custody, including access to a lawyer and electronic recording of interviews, while updating older laws.
Concerns over expanding the public services card into a digital ID and wallet centre on data protection, trust and coercion, while the Minister insists the system will remain voluntary and user-controlled under EU eIDAS rules.
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