The Irish government is facing increasing political pressure regarding its decision to restore excise duty on fuel. This move could lead to significant political challenges as public and political figures debate the reversal of fuel support measures.
Alleged international crime boss Daniel Kinahan has been extradited from Dubai to Ireland, marking the end of a global pursuit for one of Europe's most wanted men. An Air Corps flight transported Kinahan back to Dublin under a major security operation.
The Irish Prime Minister's new government aircraft may face difficulties landing in dense fog because it was purchased without an Israeli system that aids pilots in poor visibility, due to Ireland's policy of not entering new contracts with Israeli companies.
Several sections questioning continued investment in data centres, particularly regarding their impact on transport or housing, were reportedly removed from the final version of an Irish government report released to the public.
The Irish state has completed the sale of its last private banking shares, specifically from the PTSB bailout, with the government framing it as a victory for taxpayers.
A €1.2 million philanthropic donation intended for Gazan students to study at University College Dublin (UCD) is now in doubt as the foundation managing the gift has asked the donor to pause it due to uncertainties surrounding Irish Government visa issuances.
The Irish Government is facing calls to purchase the lands associated with the former Bessborough mother and baby home, a site with a history of controversy and investigations.
A former patient affected by the Kerry CAMHS scandal met with the Taoiseach, bringing the State 'one step closer' to issuing an official apology for the harm caused to children.
Leading fishing organizations in Ireland have declared the sector to be in crisis, stating it will not survive without urgent financial and policy support from both the Irish Government and the European Union.
The Irish government is attempting to clarify reports that raw materials from Ireland may have been used in Russian weapons, but is struggling to get answers.
An analysis suggests that the Irish government has passed more legislation this year than in the previous two years combined. This rush to clear the legislative agenda in the Dáil raises questions about the efficiency and functioning of the legislature.
The Irish Fiscal Advisory Council (IFAC) has criticized the government's management of finances, labeling it as 'poor planning.' This assessment highlights concerns about the country's economic strategy.
The daughter of a woman killed in an e-scooter hit-and-run incident is calling for better resourcing and enforcement of a ban, as the Irish government plans to prohibit e-scooters for those under 18.
The Irish Government has announced intentions to ban the sale of e-scooters to individuals under the age of 18. The proposal has drawn public reactions.
Concerns are being raised that the Irish Government's new Digital Wallet, now available for sign-up, could function as a national identity card without adequate public debate.
The Irish government has been accused of moving at a 'snail's pace' in tackling dereliction on Kildare's Curragh Camp. Critics highlight the slow progress in addressing the neglected state of the historic site.
A government consultation launched last July revealed that 67% of people told the Irish government they did not want sunbeds banned, despite most having used one before.
The Irish government plans to reduce monthly payments to hosts accommodating Ukrainian refugees from €600 to €400 starting in September, potentially impacting thousands of displaced individuals.
A climate change expert has accused the Irish Government of 'spin', stating that Ireland is significantly behind other EU nations in achieving emissions reduction targets.
The Irish government has withdrawn a €1 billion tender for Microsoft services after an interested party raised 'matters of concern,' prompting calls for greater transparency regarding the significant taxpayer expense.
Petrol and diesel prices are set to rise again in Ireland, prompting calls for the government to reconsider its plans to gradually reinstate the full excise duty rate.
Ireland's Department of Health has asked the Health Service Executive (HSE) for a public health report on e-scooter injuries, following a significant increase in serious injuries among children and teenagers.
The Irish government is investigating Aughinish Alumina, with opposition TDs urging an end to an agreement that they claim aids 'Putin’s aggression against Ukraine'.
The Irish government has confirmed a phased re-introduction of excise duty increases starting from September, bringing a previously deferred issue back into focus.
The US government has extended the deadline for its decision regarding potential retaliation over Dublin Airport's passenger cap, as the Irish government aims to enact related legislation within two weeks.
Russia conducted a large-scale missile and drone attack on Kyiv, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries, and causing significant damage to residential buildings across several districts.
The Irish Government has been accused of making a "mockery" of its carbon emissions reduction commitments during a Dáil debate on two energy usage measures.
New figures reveal that over 60% of people do not trust the Irish Government to ensure fair and unbiased treatment of all citizens when utilizing artificial intelligence.
The Irish government is facing criticism for its apparent refusal to publish a potentially explosive report on planning corruption in Donegal, which was submitted in 2017 and has been ignored by successive administrations for nearly a decade.
Labour leader Ivana Bacik has criticized the Irish government's decision to delay her party's legislative effort to compel religious orders to pay increased compensation to survivors of abuse.
The Irish government's position on the abolition of the Special Criminal Court has been described as 'clear as absolute mud,' as Minister O'Callaghan faces renewed calls to implement the recommendations of the Peart Review.
A high-level meeting recently took place between senior security officials from Irish government departments, the Irish Defence Forces, and An Garda Síochána. The discussion focused on how foreign militaries assisting Ireland during its EU Presidency are permitted to act.
The Irish Cabinet has decided not to oppose proposals allowing local authorities to collect a tourist tax, despite reservations expressed by hoteliers.
Ireland's Taoiseach and Tánaiste have expressed their willingness to listen to victims of sexual abuse at a Co Cork school in the 1960s and 1970s, who are calling for government responsibility.
Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan is suing the Irish Government over a law related to the EU-Canada trade deal, having previously criticized the pact's investor court provision for leaving the State liable to being sued by large businesses.
A new report recommends that the Irish government hold a referendum on the right to housing and keep the eviction ban under review, addressing ongoing housing crisis concerns.
The Irish government is divided over a Sinn Féin bill on abortion, with the Minister for Children indicating he will vote against it. This split raises questions about the bill's potential passage and the government's stance on abortion legislation.
The Taoiseach and Tánaiste will support a Sinn Féin bill to remove the three-day waiting period for abortion, with government TDs having a free vote on the issue.
Louth Deputy Joanna Byrne stated that the Irish government missed an opportunity to provide the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) with a clear roadmap regarding a fixture against Israel.
The Irish government is being urged to provide energy credits after new findings from the Commission for Regulation of Utilities revealed that over 500,000 households are currently in energy arrears.
The Irish government has launched an investigation into allegations that a local aluminum factory's exports have contributed to the development of Russia's military complex.
A spending watchdog has cautioned that the Irish government will need to borrow to supplement its new savings funds, despite criticisms that it had not been spending windfall corporate tax revenue.
The 'Stop The Game' campaign has begun legal action against Irish Government ministers, the FAI, and Sport Ireland, demanding a substantive response within 21 days regarding the intention to play Israel, or further action will be taken.
The Irish government is under pressure from lawmakers to impose EU sanctions on an Oleg Deripaska-linked plant in Ireland if its raw materials are used in Russian weapons.
As concerns rise in Europe over threats from an emboldened Russia, the Irish government is working to plug gaps in its military, reflecting a shift from its traditional neutrality.
The Irish government has missed its target for completed Assessments of Needs for children with disabilities by 5,600 over a two-and-a-half-year period, despite a plan to improve services.
The Irish Government is set to bring forward a bill in the coming weeks to abolish the Triple Lock, a move that the opposition warns will undermine Irish neutrality.
Sinn Féin plans to introduce a motion in Dáil Éireann urging the Irish government to support a boycott of Nations League games against Israel. The motion also calls for the government to cover any financial penalties incurred by the FAI due to such a boycott.
A government group in Ireland will investigate deficiencies in flood protection insurance, as many homes in high-risk areas struggle to secure affordable premiums.
More than 30,000 applications have been submitted to the Irish Government's fuel support scheme for farmers and agricultural contractors over the past month.
The Irish government plans to oppose a Social Democrats bill aimed at restricting advertisements for zero alcohol drinks, citing insufficient evidence on its public health impact.
The lobby group Ibec is calling on the Irish Government to double-index income tax bands to protect citizens from rising inflation, warning that some sectors have ceased hiring due to increased business costs.
The Irish government is proposing grants of up to €165,000 to convert vacant spaces above shops into homes, hoping this initiative could be a 'game changer' in addressing the housing crisis and bringing thousands of properties back into use.
Ireland's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence has confirmed that there will be progress on the Occupied Territories Bill within the next two weeks.
The Irish government, along with Gardaí and regulators, will examine "suspicious bets" placed on the Polymarket platform concerning a Dublin by-election, according to the Tánaiste.
Irish government departments are being pressed to explain why a settlement deal for a Children's Health Ireland (CHI) manager, who claims she was dismissed for refusing to delist spinal surgery patients, has not been approved.
The Irish government is deliberating whether to proceed with the restoration of excise duty on fuel as a looming deadline approaches, amidst concerns about potential price shocks at the pumps.
The Irish government is weighing a delay to further fuel price increases as a September excise hike threatens to push diesel above €2 a litre, potentially making fuel costs a major political issue.
A new government-funded public information campaign in Ireland aims to warn against the terms 'tradwife' and 'manosphere,' targeting stereotypical gender roles promoted by influencers.
The Irish government's new €53 million jet reportedly lacks an Israeli-manufactured navigation system essential for landing in foggy conditions. This decision to omit the Elbit-produced system has drawn attention.
A new government jet for Ireland may struggle to land in foggy conditions because a crucial Israeli-made system, designed to assist in inclement weather, was reportedly not included at the state's request.
The Irish government is promoting faster asylum decisions, but a lawyer warns that a rushed process risks genuine claims, particularly when cases are decided without an oral hearing.
The Irish government has approved plans for the Defence Forces to acquire its first long-range military radar system. This decision marks a significant upgrade for Ireland's defense capabilities.
The Irish Government is accused of a U-turn on plans for a radical overhaul of the 'side-by-side' waste collection system, after a Labour bill to revamp the system was defeated.
The Irish government has released a report on the Aughinish Alumina plant, which made no adverse findings but also could not rule out foul play due to a lack of information.
The Irish government is set to publish its Summer Economic Statement, with indications suggesting that income tax reductions will be a key feature in the upcoming budget.
Martin Lynch, father of Grace Lynch, welcomed the Irish government's new e-scooter regulations but criticized them as a 'missed opportunity' to remove illegal e-scooters from streets, arguing they don't go far enough.
The Irish government recorded a surplus of €800 million for the first three months of the year, with total government expenditure increasing to €32.4 billion and general government debt rising to €215.4 billion during the same period.
The Taoiseach, Tánaiste, Minister for Justice, and Garda Commissioner are scheduled to meet to address growing safety concerns surrounding e-scooters in Ireland.
The Financial Services Union (FSU) has urged the Irish Government to ensure that trade union representatives are invited to contribute to the upcoming AI Summit in October.
Irish government leaders are discussing a potential outright ban on e-scooters, as two-wheelers are cited as the primary reason children are admitted to ICUs.
Ireland's Tánaiste has indicated that swift action will be taken regarding e-scooters, while the Taoiseach is leaning towards an outright ban on the vehicles.
The Taoiseach stated that the Irish government is 'reflecting' on the planning permission granted for the Bessborough apartments, but made no commitment to a state purchase of the site.
Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore has urged the Irish Government to allocate funds for community buildings, following a protest in Wicklow highlighting the need for such support.
Friends of the Irish Environment is challenging the Irish government in the Supreme Court, arguing that ministers failed to demonstrate how the 2023 Climate Action Plan would meet legally binding emissions targets.
Fine Gael MEP Marie Walsh has voiced her frustration with the Irish government's "soft" language concerning the potential introduction of migrant return hubs, declaring them a "no go" for her.
The Irish government plans to block Sinn Féin's proposed legislation aimed at preparing for Irish unity. The bill, which seeks to allow for planning on Irish unity, is set to be debated in the Dáil.
An Irish Government minister stated that Ireland will 'absolutely work' with the EU to update sanctions on products exported to Russia from the Limerick-based Aughinish Alumina site, pending an independent report confirming their use by Russia.
The Irish government is under pressure to stop selling alumina to Russia and has promised that the results of an investigation into the matter will be available within weeks.
The Irish government is facing criticism for its alleged lack of interest in addressing a damaged weir located in a town in County Cork, raising concerns about environmental and structural issues.
Ireland's Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers stated that the government will not agree to a new public sector pay deal "at any cost," emphasizing that any pay rise must come from this year's budget.
The Irish government is defending a controversial budget measure that will see the VAT rate for the restaurant sector reduced from 13.5% to 9%, effective at midnight. The move is backed by a 'democratic mandate'.
Irish government leaders are scheduled to meet to discuss the potential removal of excise duty cuts on fuel, as oil prices have reportedly dropped to pre-war levels.
Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan has initiated legal action against the government regarding the EU-Canada trade deal, with the case scheduled to be heard in court on July 30.
The Irish government's proposal to establish a liquified gas terminal in the Shannon estuary is facing opposition in Dáil Éireann, the lower house of the Irish parliament.
The Irish government faces criticism for relaxing rural housing rules, with concerns raised about the negative impact on climate goals and a call to prioritize bringing vacant buildings back into use.
Irish Justice Minister Helen McEntee insists that the removal of the Triple Lock mechanism will not impact the country's neutrality, as the Taoiseach defers the bill until autumn following calls for 'reflection' from Fianna Fáil backbenchers.
An association advocating for children's rights in court is challenging a new Irish government regime, arguing that the scheme compromises the independence of guardians ad litem.
The Irish government has signed off on a €500 million redevelopment project for the General Post Office (GPO), which will include new community spaces. The state architect confirmed there are no plans to convert the GPO into a shopping center.
An Irish Government initiative aimed at fostering co-operation across the island of Ireland is set to surpass €1 billion in allocated funding this week. The program promotes cross-border collaboration and development.
A report suggests keeping an eviction ban as an option to address homelessness in Ireland, but coalition leaders have rejected the proposal. A new child and family homeless strategy is expected to be presented to the cabinet soon.
Irish government leaders are reportedly at odds with TDs over the sensitive issue of abortion. Disagreements within the government highlight the contentious nature of the topic.
Taoiseach Simon Harris has called for TDs to leave their phones outside the Dáil, stating that social media is making children 'miserable,' as the government weighs a potential ban for teenagers.
Taoiseach Simon Harris announced that the government will review the extension of fuel excise cuts within the next two weeks, alongside other economic considerations.
The Irish government is engaged in a legislative process to ban the import of goods from Israeli settlements, a move described as symbolic and farcical.
The Irish government has announced that its central themes for the upcoming EU presidency, amidst a volatile global environment, will focus on European values, security, and competitiveness.
Ireland's fiscal watchdog has warned that the government now has to 'borrow to save,' with projections indicating that government debt is planned to increase by €30 billion by 2030.
Opposition parties in Ireland have accused the government of significantly weakening the Occupied Territories Bill by excluding services from any ban on products originating from occupied territories.
Plans to remove Ireland's 'Triple Lock' mechanism, which requires UN Security Council approval for deploying Irish troops, are set to be brought before the cabinet. This move has sparked public debate on whether the country should retain the current system.
The Irish government has distributed a survey to parents of primary school children to gather feedback on the hot meals scheme, indicating a review or expansion of the program.
The family of Aoife Johnston, who died at University Hospital Limerick in 2022, expressed feeling 'badly let down' by the Irish government's handling of their calls for a statutory inquiry and a memorial for their daughter.
The Irish government has backed the Football Association of Ireland's decision to proceed with upcoming fixtures against Israel, stating that the government's role is in the political arena, not sports matches.
The Irish Department of Justice has withdrawn the right to appeal against certain short-stay visa refusals, stating the change aims to expedite decision-making for applicants.
The Irish government is preparing for the 'biggest overhaul' of one-off housing rules in decades, aiming to reform regulations for rural housing. Tánaiste Simon Harris confirmed the upcoming changes.
The Irish government faces accusations of a 'famine of ambition' regarding climate action, following projections that indicate missed targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions.
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has accused the Irish Government of significantly weakening the Occupied Territories Bill, stating that there has been "plenty of lip service" but little action.
The Irish Government has received a timing advantage regarding an EU court decision on the passenger cap at Dublin Airport, providing extra breathing space to enact legislation to remove the restriction.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) chair has criticized the Irish government for allegedly withholding €180 million raised from windfall energy revenues while electricity customers face high prices.
Letters to the editor criticize Micheál Martin's Famine tribute, suggesting it rings hollow in light of the Irish Government's perceived inaction regarding the conflict in Gaza.
Wicklow County Council has unanimously appealed to the Irish government to intervene and provide financial assistance for Arklow teacher Eimear Byrne, 30, who faces a €600,000 bill for life-saving surgery only available in the United States.
A UN housing expert has cautioned the Irish Government that foreign investors are contributing to unaffordable housing in Ireland. Data indicates that 17,482 people are currently in emergency accommodation.
New figures reveal that almost half of the applicants to the Irish Government's Help to Buy scheme have been rejected, despite nearly 49,000 people receiving financial support since July 2020.
Minister Jack Chambers has affirmed that the Irish government jet is 'fully operational' and has no navigational limitations, following earlier reports of issues with the new plane.
The Irish government is being called upon to tackle a 'negative mindset around investing' if new savings accounts are to be successful, as research indicates fewer than half of Irish adults hold any form of investment.
An opinion piece warns against closing coalition doors, suggesting that forming the next Irish government will likely require three equal-sized party blocs.
A foundation managing philanthropic donations for UCD has asked a donor to pause a €1.2 million gift intended for Gazan students. This request comes amid uncertainty regarding the Irish Government's issuance of study visas to students from Gaza.
The Irish Government has announced the appointment of Paul Byrne as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of Oifig IS na hÉireann, the newly established AI Office of Ireland.
The Irish government is reviewing its nuclear emergency response, with the department stating that a worst-case scenario is considered 'very unlikely'.
The Taoiseach has confirmed that he raised the trial of a Dubliner in Stuttgart with the German Chancellor. The Irish government has been directly engaged with the man on trial in Germany.
Ukraine is pressuring the Irish Government to publish a secret report concerning the Aughinish Alumina refinery, though a junior minister insists there was no 'deliberate attempt to withhold anything' as a copy was sent to the European Commission.
The chair of Ukraine's EU integration committee stated that jobs at Aughinish Alumina could be protected if the company faces sanctions, provided the Irish Government demonstrates the necessary 'political will'.
The Irish government has announced stricter regulations for electric scooter usage, including requiring a license, helmet, and age limit, following a significant increase in accidents and serious injuries, particularly among children and teenagers.
The Irish government plans to expedite critical infrastructure projects, such as the Galway Ring Road, by implementing measures to protect them from climate-related legal challenges.
The Irish government is planning a shake-up of inheritance tax in the upcoming Budget, aiming to reward hard work. Minister Jack Chambers expressed his commitment to building Fianna Fáil and hopes to be judged fairly on his contributions.
A dispute is escalating between the fuel industry and the Irish Government concerning new legislation, described as an 'omnishambles,' which mandates a 1.5% obligation in the first year, rising to 3% in the second.
A new 'mandatory but not compulsory' Irish Government Digital Wallet, designed to hold critical documents like passports and health data, will not automatically include two-factor authentication, raising security concerns.
The Irish government has agreed to launch a commission of investigation into the decades-long offending of prolific paedophile and former hospital consultant Michael Shine. A report recommended that the state investigation begin immediately.
The Irish government's long-awaited Occupied Territories Bill, first proposed in 2018, has passed despite criticism regarding its lack of a ban on services.
An Irish government investigation into Aughinish Alumina is causing significant fear and uncertainty among residents and workers in west Limerick regarding the refinery's future.
The Irish government has approved a new entitlement providing five days of leave for women who experience a miscarriage in early pregnancy, marking a significant change from previous policy.
The Irish government's decision to relax rural ribbon development rules is seen as a move to create more homes, though it may lead to new costs for taxpayers.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has lifted its suspension on the Russian Olympic Committee, paving the way for Russian athletes to return to international competitions. This decision has drawn varied reactions from Russia, Ukraine, and Western nations.
Trade unions are urging the Irish Government to use its EU presidency to advance a directive aimed at abolishing unpaid traineeships across the European Union.
The Irish government is considering increasing the 40% tax rate threshold, potentially leading to tax cuts for workers earning over €44,000. Additionally, concerns regarding inheritance tax are being voiced, suggesting possible future adjustments.
The Irish Government is scheduled to hold a series of joint meetings with the European Commission in Cork today, marking the beginning of Ireland's EU presidency.
Housing advocacy groups have criticized the Irish Government's draft planning guidelines for rural and Gaeltacht areas, stating that the proposals are a 'blow to Gaeltacht areas'.
The Irish government plans to highlight the benefits of major infrastructure projects in an effort to combat Nimbyism, with some objectors suspected of seeking 'go-away money' from developers.
The International Monetary Fund has urged the Irish Government to increase revenue from income tax, VAT, and local property tax to lessen its dependence on corporation tax paid by multinational companies.
Irish Government party leaders are scheduled to discuss a gradual reversal of the excise cuts on petrol and diesel, indicating potential changes to fuel taxation.
The Tánaiste has voiced reservations about the full decriminalization of drugs for personal use in Ireland, suggesting it could be perceived as an approval of drug use.
The Irish government is looking to ban vape flavors, with a Bill seeking to change the packaging, appearance, and flavors of vapes reaching its fourth stage in the Dáil.
The Irish government is supporting proposals for a hotel bed levy across Ireland, with the Lord Mayor of Dublin advocating for its swift introduction to potentially generate €30 million in annual revenue for the city council.
A Fianna Fáil TD is urging the Irish government to bid on a historically significant linen handkerchief, believed to have been waved by Captain Michael William O’Reilly on the final day of the Easter Rising to signal a truce.
Guinness parent company Diageo has informed the Irish Government about potential job cuts within its operations in Ireland. The details regarding the number of affected positions or specific departments were not immediately disclosed.
The Irish government has allocated up to €1 billion for renewing Microsoft services and subscriptions across various public sector bodies, significantly increasing from the previous framework's estimated value of €350 million.
The Irish Government has opened the public-facing Gender Pay Gap Portal, enabling individuals to access, compare, and review employer data on gender pay disparities. The portal aims to increase transparency and accountability regarding pay equity.
The Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) spent nearly €20,000 to send five representatives to a property conference in Cannes over the past two years.
The Irish government is set to issue a formal State apology to the victims of paedophile Bill Kenneally. This decision follows calls from survivors for official recognition and apology for the abuse they endured.
Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris is bringing a proposal for a new derelict sites tax to Cabinet, criticizing some local authorities for their handling of dereliction.
A Fine Gael MEP argues that the Irish government, not the Football Association of Ireland (FAI), should make the call on a controversial match against Israel, citing significant geopolitical and diplomatic implications.
Ireland's government has committed to doing everything possible to support festivals after the country's largest ticketing company went bankrupt, leaving some events owed significant amounts.
Helen McEntee, a government minister, stated that the government is doing 'what is possible' as she introduced a 'watered-down' version of the Occupied Territories Bill.
The Irish government is under increasing pressure to take action regarding the Aughinish Alumina plant, following calls from the Ukrainian ambassador for its shutdown.
A survivor of convicted paedophile Bill Kenneally has called for a 'massive, massive apology' from the Irish Government regarding its handling of the case.
Minister for Energy and the Environment, Darragh O'Brien, stated that the Irish Government is 'managing appropriately' the energy use of data centres, responding to a UN report that described Ireland as a 'cautionary tale'.
The Irish government is set to support the Football Association of Ireland's bid to host the 2029 Women's Champions League Final in Dublin. This involves seeking state approval for a €75m funding package.
The Irish government was reportedly made aware of errors in Aughinish Alumina's export data, with a Minister stating that the CSO figure showing 83% of the Limerick-based operation's exports going to Russia is 'not accurate'.
The Irish government faces accusations of 'talking out of both sides of its mouth' regarding an upcoming game between Ireland and Israel, implying a lack of clear stance or consistency.
The Irish Government is opposing a bill proposed by the Social Democrats that aims to close a 'legal loophole' allowing the drinks industry to bypass alcohol advertising restrictions by promoting zero-alcohol products.
Financial management firm Empyrean is expanding its operations in Cork, Ireland, with support from the Irish government and plans to increase its workforce, leveraging AI in its growth.
Survivors of institutional abuse in Ireland have urged the government to end a 'pattern of exclusion' across various State redress schemes, calling for more inclusive support.
The Irish government is set to appoint a new minister of state at the Department of Agriculture this week. This appointment will fill a vacant position within the government.
The Irish government is under pressure to address Israel's actions in Gaza, with plans to vote on the Occupied Territories Bill and work with the EU on sanctions, following a 'flotilla fallout'.
The Irish government is making progress on a formal apology to thalidomide survivors, though no specific date has been set for the commitment made in February.