Editorial: Government must be upfront about asylum seeker plans

News emerged last Friday that more than 130 people are on the way to Kilkenny under the International Protection programme.

Information so far has been scant, and it seems to have even been a surprise to some local TDs and council officials. It is perhaps too early to comment on the situation as a result, but surprise news followed by absence of details is not serving anyone well. It fuels rumour and concern.

The hope is that, in the case of any new arrivals, adequate resources will be put in place to help them. We know that services including health and housing are already under serious strain. A move like this must be backed up with resources to the benefit of all, including people already here.

The details of these resources and actions should also be communicated to all in a timely manner. That is the best way of ensuring the smoothest process possible, and assuaging any concerns people may have.

WORK DANGERS

Our lookback this week relays the terrifying experienced of a dramatic fire which ripped through a mine shaft 50 years ago.

It must have been terrifying for the miners involved, trapped for hours one mile under the ground. It was and remains a dangerous profession, even with advances in technology and conditions in working improvements.

Mines still operate here in parts of Kilkenny, however these days, farming is our most dangerous profession and makes up almost half of all workplace fatalities in Ireland each year. 

While some technology has made us safer, others have brought more danger. Vehicles are larger and move faster than ever before. Agricultural and industrial  technology is often massive in size, capable of causing enormous harm and damage very quickly.  

Sadly, 26 people lost their lives in work-related incidents in 2022, 25 of whom were men. While the number is still 26 people too many, it is the lowest since the HSA began keeping records, and is hopefully a sign of improvement.