Campaigners have urged schools to be “extra cognisant” of students and families who are struggling to afford books and uniforms ahead of the new school year. Parents’ groups are frequently highlighting the cost of going back to school every summer, but there are fears that the financial burden on parents will be compounded this year by the cost-of-living crisis.

Meanwhile budgetary watchdog, the Fiscal Advisory Council, has said strong corporation tax receipts should "not be relied on to fund permanent spending increases". The council made its comments in a series of tweets last night in response to the Summer Economic Statement published by the Government yesterday.

SIPTU members in the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) will conduct a 24-hour work stoppage today (Tuesday, 5th July) following the refusal of the Government to discuss with their union their need for a pay rise for the first time in 14 years.

Elsewhere, the Medical Independent reports this morning that the Department of Health is now introducing a “blended working policy”. Staff at the Department of Health are presently required to work from its office in Dublin for two days per week.

The Dublin Airport Authority has said that “significant improvements” made at the airport are “achieving their desired result” to alleviate pressure on the system amid a strong return to air travel.

And The Cabinet has given the green light for planning to be submitted on a €9.5bn Metrolink for Dublin. Metrolink will represent the largest rail investment Ireland has made since the 19th century.

FInally, the IMMA’s Summer Party returns this July. Continuous Patterns is a two-day summer celebration of music, art and atmosphere in the beautiful grounds of IMMA, on 15th and 16th July. You can see what's on offer this time here.