AGP Executive Report

Rare Disease Care in Ireland: The HSE has approved funding for Skyclarys for Friedreich’s ataxia after a “life-changing” campaign by families, with further coverage noting the decision had been awaited for months. Prison Health & Safety: An inquest into the death of Jamie Crowley at Cork Prison heard calls for technology to remotely monitor inmates’ vital signs. Health & Learning Support: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library continues to leave a literacy legacy in Ireland after her death at 80, with the programme mailing free books to children from birth to age five. Irish Sports Safety: Irish champion jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle was taken to hospital in Drogheda after a fall at Bellewstown; racing was abandoned after multiple horses slipped and came down. Wellness & Community: Echelon Data Centres partnered with Trinovium (Trinity Biotech) on liquid cooling for AI data centres, reflecting ongoing investment in tech infrastructure that can affect energy use and health-adjacent planning.

Rare Disease Access: Tánaiste Simon Harris says today’s HSE decision on funding Skyclarys for Friedreich’s ataxia should bring “clarity” for patients and families, amid reports of a new lower price offer from Biogen. Public Health & Harm Reduction: The Department of Health warns of fentanyl-laced cocaine after overdoses, urging people to treat drug use as high-risk and seek help fast. Weight Support for Men: A survey finds nearly three in four men want to lose weight, but only about a quarter have spoken to their GP, with stigma and shame cited as barriers. Road Safety & Community Impact: Updates continue from the M9 wrong-way crash that killed five teenagers, while police also warn about “absolutely unacceptable” wrong-way driving incidents on the M6. Dementia Support Locally: Carlow County Council Library Service launches “Let’s Talk Memory” drop-in sessions with the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. Farm Wellness: A new project rolls out health, safety and wellbeing training for social farming, farm open days and events. Health Tech & Research: UCD research re-identifies “Kerry cow” bones as bear and wild boar, reshaping understanding of Ireland’s shift to farming.

Student costs in Ireland: New research from Switcher.ie says the price of going to college is rising, with students eligible for free tuition facing over €16,000 a year and higher accommodation costs in Dublin (about €5,925+ for the academic year), alongside increases in utilities, groceries and entertainment. Cancer insurance protection: A new “right to be forgotten” law for cancer survivors will take effect from 15 October 2026, stopping insurers from using past cancer history when applying for mortgage protection (up to €650,000) after five years in remission. Friedreich’s ataxia access pressure: Campaigners and families are urging the HSE to approve the lifesaving Skyclarys treatment as a decision deadline approaches, with protests in Dublin highlighting the stakes for patients. Wrong-way driving and safety: Ireland’s road safety focus intensifies after reports of a 32% rise in wrong-way driving on motorways, alongside ongoing grief and scrutiny following the M9 crash that killed five teenagers and injured a family. Animal health watch: DAFM is monitoring a new midge-borne cattle virus, Shamonda virus, reported across parts of Europe, noting the main risk is to unborn calves. Breathing for stress: A Los Angeles-based breathwork programme is promoting daily breathing techniques to help people manage stress and anxiety by supporting nervous system regulation.

Road Safety & Public Health: Transport Infrastructure Ireland reports a 32% rise in wrong-way driving on Irish motorways this year, with 62 incidents recorded so far—highlighting the ongoing risk after the M9 wrong-way crash that killed five teenagers and left a family seriously injured. Mental Health at Work: New research finds hormonal health affects working life for most women, with many not disclosing symptoms at work—while a separate Dublin care-workers strike ends after the Labour Court recommends a pay review proceed. Tobacco & Prevention: The Irish Heart Foundation says more smokers need support to quit and calls for higher cigarette duty, warning smoking-related deaths remain a major burden. Rare Disease Access: Campaigners and families continue to push for access to the Friedreich’s ataxia drug Skyclarys, as pressure mounts on HSE funding decisions. Water Conservation: Uisce Éireann lifts the hosepipe ban in Mayo this week but extends restrictions in 13 counties until end of September, citing ongoing pressure on supplies. Health & Tech Regulation: Uber faces an €825m fine in the Netherlands over automated driver suspensions without adequate human review—raising questions about fairness in health-adjacent gig work. Community Wellbeing: Complaints from residents at an IPAS centre in Dublin include “visible” drug activity and children going hungry, adding to concerns about safety and basic needs. Global Health Watch: MSF warns Ebola in DR Congo is “out of control,” with thousands of deaths reported as the outbreak spreads rapidly.

Rare Disease Access Fight: Hundreds protested in Dublin urging the HSE to reimburse Skyclarys for Friedreich’s ataxia, with patients saying it could slow progression and preserve abilities; the HSE Drugs Group previously recommended against funding over “limitations and uncertainties” and price concerns, with a final decision expected Tuesday. Public Health & Safety: A Dublin Citywest IPAS centre resident raised urgent concerns about “visible, open drug activity,” hygiene and safety violations, while another parent complained children were going hungry outside meal times—both cases highlight wellbeing risks in accommodation settings. Community Wellness: Limerick Food Partnership is launching a Local Food Environment Dashboard to map local food assets and who they serve, alongside a six-week Healthy Food Made Easy cooking and nutrition programme starting in October. Coastal Rescue Innovation: Donegal is set to pilot a Coastal Location Code after a near-drowning incident, aiming to speed up accurate location identification during emergencies and potentially roll out nationwide. Health & Mobility Inspiration: An Irishman with a 5% chance of walking again has begun a 4,500km US charity trek to raise funds for spinal injury care.

Rare disease access fight: Campaigners in Dublin are holding a protest urging the HSE to reimburse Skyclarys (omaveloxolone) for Friedreich’s ataxia, after HSE Drugs Group recommendations not to cover it over cost and uncertainties; advocates say it can slow progression and estimate costs at about €280,000 per patient per year. Public health & safety: A boy was rushed to University Hospital Galway with serious injuries after a serious single-vehicle crash in Ballinasloe, with the road closed for forensic examination. Wellness meets risk: Ireland’s cold-water dipping trend is growing, but a separate report highlights worsening water quality and contamination concerns for rivers and private wells—especially relevant for people taking wellness into natural waters. Food & health support: Limerick Food Partnership launched a Local Food Environment Dashboard linking affordable food, people and local areas, plus a community cooking and nutrition programme starting in October. Health warning on unapproved drugs: An obesity consultant says hospitals are seeing side effects from illegally used Retatrutide, with cases including vomiting and kidney problems. Community care: Cian’s Kennels expands its hospital-based mobile pet therapy service, bringing therapy dogs to sick children and families. Injury & harm online: Reports also spotlight dangerous “joyrider” culture linked to social media, raising calls for stronger action to protect young people.

Sports & Health Motivation: Ireland’s athletics and swimming medal rush in Birmingham and Paris is being framed as the payoff of years of discipline and sacrifice, with athletes like Kate O’Connor and Rhasidat Adeleke spotlighted. Public Health & Safety: Gardaí have launched a murder investigation after a woman in her 30s was found dead in a Limerick apartment, with a post-mortem completed and a forensic scene preserved. Road Safety: Tributes and renewed calls for enforcement follow the M9 wrong-way crash that killed five teenagers, while another serious wrong-way incident earlier this month has reignited debate about parental responsibility. Cancer & Care: Belfast-born Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell says his Hodgkin’s lymphoma has returned after a donor transplant failed, and he’s back on chemotherapy. Skin Health: A GP warns against a viral Sudocrem “face mask” trend, urging caution with products not meant for facial use. HSE Access: New figures show only one in seven public-only consultant contracts are worked on Saturdays, raising concerns ahead of winter pressures. Community Support: Nominations are open for the Westmeath Examiner Community and Sports Awards 2026, including carer and young sportsperson categories.

Cancer & Nutrition Research: Trinity College Dublin and UCD report that a yeast-based supplement (yeast beta-glucan) helped “reprogram” immune cells in obese mice, boosting anti-tumour responses, in findings published in Cell Reports. Rare Disease Support: The Andelyn Foundation is bringing its Fore One Purpose golf tournament to Dublin on Aug 24, aiming to support families affected by rare diseases. Skin Safety Warning: An NHS GP has cautioned against a viral trend of using Sudocrem on the face, urging people to be careful with antiseptic creams outside their intended use. Public Health Policy: Alcohol Action Ireland is calling for at least a 15% rise in alcohol excise duties in Budget 2027, arguing it would cut harms from excessive drinking. Festival Harm Reduction: The HSE’s Safer Nightlife programme is sending trained volunteers to Electric Picnic and District X to reduce drug-related harm through on-the-ground, non-judgemental advice. Community & Wellbeing: Limerick is inviting the public to shape its draft Local Sports Plan 2026–2030, with a focus on boosting participation in sport and physical activity.

Health & Food Systems: A new report-style piece warns that even “simple” tomato season depends on a fragile chain of farms, workers, transport, permits and markets—and that the system is getting squeezed. Public Health & Safety: A major focus in Ireland this week is the M9 wrong-way crash aftermath, with vigils for injured women and a child in Carlow and a fundraiser topping €675,000—renewing calls for tougher dangerous-driving enforcement and better protection for children. Care & Staffing: Nurses at Cork University Hospital raise alarms about staffing shortages and patient safety, citing trolley pressures and potential service curtailment. Community Wellness Infrastructure: Westmeath County Council is holding an information session on Athlone Active Travel routes, with upgrades for walking and cycling planned for public feedback. Rare Disease Medicine: Ireland-related coverage includes renewed calls around access to life-changing rare-disease drugs after European and national developments.

Rare disease access: The HPRA has ordered a recall of Tavneos (avacopan) in the Republic of Ireland after deaths reported in Japan and an EU move to strip its authorisation, with around 60 Irish patients previously treated and some already taken off the drug. Rare neurological drug fight: In parallel, families are campaigning after the HSE’s NCPE recommended against reimbursing Skyclarys for Friedreich’s Ataxia, with a final decision expected soon and hundreds waiting. Road safety and grief: After the M9 wrong-way crash, bishops and families are calling for a wider national road-safety conversation and for young people to get early support, while Gardaí plan a strong policing presence at funerals. Public transport safety: The Railway Accident Investigation Unit has urged Luas trams to be fitted with anti-drag tech following “trap-and-drag” incidents that injured passengers. Health workforce pipeline: Government approval announced for 612 extra university healthcare places each year, including nursing, medicine, pharmacy, dentistry and veterinary medicine, to tackle workforce shortages. Housing and health services: HSE data shows nearly 10% of long-vacant HSE properties are in Westmeath, raising concerns as communities seek investment in local health services. Wellbeing and community: Mayo Mountain Rescue Team named a National Lottery Good Cause Legend 2026, and Life Pharmacy launches a September 100km challenge for Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation.

Rare Disease Access: Campaigners in Dublin are urging the HSE to approve Skyclarys for Friedreich’s ataxia after the Drugs Group declined reimbursement, with a final decision expected soon. Drug Safety: Tavneos, used for severe autoimmune vasculitis, has been recalled from Irish wholesalers after reports of deaths in Japan and updated European risk concerns. Public Health & Water Safety: Dublin has lifted its boil water advisory after testing confirmed safety, though residents may notice higher chlorine during flushing; separately, a “do not swim” notice remains in place at Portmarnock’s Velvet Strand after sewage overflow. Environmental Health: Cavan authorities warn against swimming in Lough Ramor after an algal bloom linked to rising temperatures and nutrient runoff. Road Safety & Mental Health System Scrutiny: After the M9 wrong-way crash that killed five teenagers, Tusla confirmed one victim was in its care and social media platforms face renewed pressure over dangerous driving clips. Healthcare Capacity: Reports highlight ongoing strain in Irish hospitals, including trolley waiting pressures. Animal Health & Welfare: A barn owl rescue story highlights wildlife care efforts after the bird was found exhausted at sea.

Hospital Pressure: INMO reports 485 patients waiting on trolleys across Irish hospitals (290 in emergency departments), with six still waiting for beds in the Midlands. Rare Disease Funding Fight: Pressure is mounting on the HSE over whether to fund Skyclarys for Friedreich’s ataxia, as families say Ireland is falling behind and a decision is due next week. Road Safety & Community Support: After the M9 wrong-way crash, a prayer vigil is set for Carlow and a GoFundMe has topped €500,000 for the seriously injured sisters and young boy. Patient Safety Staffing: Cork University Hospital’s CEO says recruitment restrictions are putting patient safety at risk, with calls to lift an embargo on consultant posts. Vaping Warnings: The HSE has issued warnings about high-risk substances linked to serious physical and mental harm found in vaping products. Wellbeing Basics: A hydration guide urges people to use urine colour as a simple check and aim for pale straw/light yellow. Sports Nutrition: Experts say supplements like creatine should come only after a solid diet, not as a shortcut. Environment & Health: Cherry laurel is flagged as a high-risk invasive species, with calls for a nationwide ban timeline.

HSE Vape Warning: The HSE says high-risk synthetic cannabinoids have been found in vapes, vape juice and edibles sold in Ireland, with links to serious physical and mental harms including psychosis and severe intoxication—prompting calls for stronger regulation. Hospital Staffing Crisis: Cork University Hospital’s chief executive warns the hospital is “unsafe” for patients heading into winter, citing a shortfall of over 1,000 staff and delays in recruitment approvals. Diabetes Tech in Waterford: A free University Hospital Waterford event on Sept 16 will showcase insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitoring and hybrid closed-loop options, plus how to access them locally. Community Support in Schools: Limerick’s City Connects programme expands to 13 schools, placing coordinators to link students with health and family supports under DEIS Plus. Road Safety & Injuries: Gardaí say they’re not seeking a “sixth youth” in the M9 crash investigation, while a teen remains seriously injured after an e-scooter incident in Coolock, Dublin. Women’s Health Story: One woman describes how endometriosis led to a hysterectomy within six months, highlighting how fast symptoms can escalate. Dementia Care Legacy: Sr Mary Threadgold, who helped pioneer Ireland’s Sonas dementia communication programme, has died aged 87.

HSE Drug Warning: The HSE says high-risk synthetic cannabinoids have been found in some vapes, vape juice and edibles sold in Ireland, linked to serious physical and mental harms including psychosis and severe intoxication. Hospital Staffing Alarm: Cork University Hospital’s CEO has written to the HSE warning patient safety risks as delays in filling funded posts affect paediatric neurology, neuroradiology, CT capacity, physiotherapy and lung-capacity testing. Road Safety & Community Support: A GoFundMe for three Carlow sisters seriously injured in the M9 wrong-way crash has topped €200,000 within a day, as five teens died in the collision. Addiction Pressure: The Rutland Centre reports 64% of admissions involve multiple addictions, with alcohol and cocaine among the most common. Local Health & Activity: Limerick is inviting the public to shape its Local Sports Plan 2026–2030 to boost participation in sport and physical activity. Wellness & Aesthetics: A Cork event highlights demand for subtle, education-led aesthetic treatments and non-invasive skin-tightening options.

Rare Disease Drug Fight: Campaigners are protesting in Dublin ahead of an HSE decision on reimbursing Skyclarys for Friedreich’s ataxia, a drug approved across 11 EU countries but not yet funded in Ireland; the HSE drugs group previously cited high costs and uncertainties, with a final call due Aug 25. Public Health Access: New HSE data shows fewer medical cards were issued last year despite the cost-of-living squeeze, while GP visit cards continue to rise—raising fresh concerns about access to care. Road Safety & Social Media: Ireland’s media regulator has asked TikTok for a full account of actions taken over reckless driving content after a wrong-way crash on the M9 killed five teenagers, as investigations and public pressure intensify. Health System Pressure: Beaumont Hospital’s chief executive has stepped down after two years, adding to ongoing leadership and capacity strain across services. Wellness & Lifestyle: A new Irish event is putting healthcare environments in focus, while separate coverage highlights plant-based cooking and sun-safety messaging for young people. Food & Farming: Teagasc reports almost 40% of farms are short of fodder, with costly supplementary feeding likely to hit budgets.

Oral Health Access: A new WHO oral health policy launch in Dublin highlights how people with disabilities in Ireland face “unjust, unfair and largely unnecessary” barriers, with many only getting care when problems become painful emergencies. Road Safety & Policing: After the M9 wrong-way crash that killed five teenagers, Garda representative groups are calling for more resources, including pursuit training, as Coimisiún na Meán seeks details from TikTok about reckless-driving content. Children’s Services Under Strain: Oberstown workers have begun picketing outside the Department of Children amid staffing concerns, assaults on staff, and a work stoppage. Rare Disease Drug Access: Pressure is growing on the Government and pharma to secure access to life-changing treatment for Friedreich’s ataxia patients after HSE refusal. Community Heart Health: Pharmacy-led “Move Every Day in May” raised €85,884.75 for the Irish Heart Foundation, pairing movement challenges with free heart-health checks. Wellbeing & Caregiving: A charity coffee morning for Ronald McDonald House Ireland at Children’s Health Ireland in Crumlin raised support for families of seriously ill children.