Article content DUBLIN (AP) — Vote counting was underway Saturday in Ireland’s national election after an exit poll suggested the contest is a close-fought race among the country’s three largest political parties. Recommended Videos Election officials opened ballot boxes at count centers across the country, kicking off what could be several days of tallying the results. If the exit poll is borne out, that could be followed by days or weeks of negotiations to form a coalition government. The exit poll suggested voters’ support is split widely among the three big parties — Fine Gael, Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein — as well as several smaller parties and an assortment of independents ranging from the left to the far right. The poll said center-right party Fine Gael was the first choice of 21% of voters, and another center-right party, Fianna Fail, of 19.5%. The two parties governed in coalition before the election. Left-of-center opposition party Sinn Fein was at 21.1% in the poll. Pollster Ipsos B&A asked 5,018 voters across the country how they had cast their ballots. The survey has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.4 percentage points. The figures only give an indication and don’t reveal which parties will form the next government. Ireland uses a complex system of proportional representation in which each of the country’s 43 constituencies elects several lawmakers and voters rank candidates in order of preference. As a result, it can take some time for full results to be known. Fianna Fail politician Michael McGrath, a former finance minister and now a European Union official, said “a number of different parties and groups will have to be involved” in forming a government. “I hope it is a stable government that has the prospect of lasting the five years because of the challenges we are facing in Ireland and throughout the European Union,” he told the PA news agency at a count in Cork, southwest Ireland. “Let’s allow the picture to emerge over the days ahead.” The result will show whether Ireland bucks the global trend of incumbents being ousted by disgruntled voters after years of pandemic, international instability and cost-of-living pressures. The cost of living — especially Ireland’s acute housing crisis _ was a dominant topic in the three-week campaign, alongside immigration, which has become an emotive and challenging issue in a country of 5.4 million people long defined by emigration. The outgoing government was led by the two parties that have dominated Irish politics for the past century: Fine Gael and Fianna Fail. They have similar policies but are longtime rivals with origins on opposing sides of Ireland’s 1920s civil war. After the 2020 election ended in a virtual dead heat, they formed a coalition. Before polling day, analysts said the most likely outcome was another Fine Gael-Fianna Fail coalition. That remains a likely option. The front-runners to be the next taoiseach, or prime minister, are current Taoiseach Simon Harris of Fine Gael and Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin — despite their parties’ relatively lackluster showing. The two parties would need the support of smaller groups or independents to achieve a majority in the 174-seat Dail, the lower house of Parliament. The Green Party, which held 12 seats in the last parliament and propped up the governing coalition, acknowledged that it was headed for a disappointing result. Among a large crop of independent candidates was reputed organized crime boss Gerry “the Monk” Hutch, who has seen a groundswell of support since he was bailed on money-laundering charges in Spain this month in order to run for election. Early results suggested he stood a good chance of winning a seat in Dublin. Sinn Fein achieved a stunning breakthrough in the 2020 election, topping the popular vote, but was shut out of government because Fianna Fail and Fine Gael refused to work with it, citing its leftist policies and historic ties with militant group the Irish Republican Army during three decades of violence in Northern Ireland. Though Sinn Fein, which aims to reunite Northern Ireland with the independent Republic of Ireland, could become the largest party in the Dail, it may struggle to get enough coalition partners to form a government. During the election campaign, both Fine Gael and Fianna Fail maintained they would not go into government with it. A Sinn Fein-led government would shake up Irish politics — and the future of the United Kingdom. The party is already the largest in Northern Ireland, and a Sinn Fein government in the republic would push for a referendum on Irish reunification in the next few years. The party, which had urged people to vote for change, hailed the result after the exit poll was released. “There is every chance that Sinn Fein will emerge from these elections as the largest political party,” Sinn Fein director of elections Matt Carthy told broadcaster RTE on Friday night.Arizona State's Cam Skattebo: 'I'm the best running back in the country' after 3-TD gameThe DaVinci Gourmet Barista Craft Competition where Lanz Castillo participated is a clear indication of the steady and continuous growth of the global coffee shop market, which is now projected to reach $200 billion by 2025. In a separate email exchange, Eloise Dubuisson, General Manager of Foodservice Brands at Kerry Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, said Asia Pacific is at the forefront of this growth, emerging as a trendsetter rather than a follower. Register to read this story and more for free . Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience. OR See our subscription options.
( MENAFN - Daily News Egypt) GF Piping Systems, a division of Georg Fischer AG and a leading global provider of piping solutions, has officially opened a new manufacturing facility in Cairo, Egypt. The plant, developed through a joint venture known as EGFCO, is a collaboration between GF Piping Systems, Egypt Gas, and Green Coast Enterprises. This facility is designed to meet the growing regional demand for reliable and sustainable infrastructure piping systems, supporting energy efficiency and long-term development. The establishment of this state-of-the-art plant aligns with GF Piping Systems' strategy to expand its manufacturing footprint and bring essential flow solutions closer to its customers in the Middle East and Africa. The Cairo facility will produce Medium Density Polyethylene (MDPE) pipes and other specialized piping solutions tailored to the unique needs of regional infrastructure projects. It will play a pivotal role in supporting local projects that align with Egypt's national development goals, while also serving as a key gateway to the African market. “We are excited about our expansion in Egypt, which underscores our commitment to delivering locally produced, high-quality solutions for water, gas, and energy infrastructure,” said Andreas Müller, CEO of GF and interim President of GF Piping Systems.“We look forward to collaborating with Egypt Gas to provide durable and sustainable piping systems that support essential infrastructure across the region.” The Cairo plant is the result of a strategic partnership between GF Piping Systems, Egypt Gas-the largest gas distributor in Egypt-and Green Coast Enterprises, a leader in sustainable infrastructure development in the private sector. This collaboration aims to strengthen local supply chains and bring advanced piping technologies to Egypt, contributing to the country's growing infrastructure needs. Wael Gowayed, Chairperson of Egypt Gas, commented:“We are delighted to see this facility come to fruition. It will play a vital role in meeting Egypt's increasing demand for high-quality, locally manufactured flow solutions. The plant will generate significant economic and operational benefits, including job creation and enhanced supply chain resilience.” Mohammed Abdulghaffar Hussain, Executive Director of Green Coast Enterprises, added:“This new facility represents our long-term commitment to sustainable development. Through this partnership with GF Piping Systems and Egypt Gas, we are contributing to the creation of infrastructure that is both functional and sustainable, in line with Egypt's future goals.” Spanning 25,000 square meters, the Cairo plant is strategically located to facilitate efficient distribution across Egypt and the broader region. This local production capability will enhance the reliability of the supply chain, reduce lead times, and provide high-quality, durable flow solutions. By manufacturing locally, GF Piping Systems also aims to reduce the carbon footprint associated with international transportation, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. GF Piping Systems is renowned for its innovative and reliable water and flow solutions, which are integral to a wide range of industries and infrastructure projects. The company's award-winning portfolio includes leak-free piping systems, fittings, valves, pipes, vaults, chambers, automation, and jointing technologies, all designed to ensure the safe and sustainable transport of fluids. The Cairo facility marks a significant milestone in GF Piping Systems' ongoing efforts to bring superior solutions to the Middle East and Africa, furthering its mission to create connections for life. MENAFN30112024000153011029ID1108942202 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.NKGen Biotech Selected as Stalking Horse Bidder for NKMax
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Walter Payton Award finalist Irv Mulligan had 116 yards rushing, Jackson State took control in the third quarter and the Tigers rolled past Southern 41-13 on Saturday to win the SWAC Championship. Jackson State (11-2) claimed the conference title for the fourth time and will play MEAC champion South Carolina State in the Celebration Bowl on Dec. 14 in Atlanta. Southern (8-5) led 10-3 late in the second quarter before Jackson State ended the half on an Emari Matthews 2-yard touchdown run and followed it up with Mulligan's 1-yard TD run to open the third quarter. Now leading 17-10, the Tigers added Gerardo Baeza's 45-yard field goal and Zy McDonald's 23-yard touchdown run to take a 27-10 lead into the fourth quarter. Jackson State wrapped up the conference title with two touchdowns in the final 6 1/2 minutes. The Jaguars' 28-yard field goal by Joshua Griffin in the fourth quarter marked the end of a six-game streak in which Jackson State had not allowed a point in the final period. Also, Southern was only the third team since Oct. 5 to score in the second half against Jackson State. In addition to Muligan's 116 yards on the ground, McDonald ran for 95 yards and the Tigers totaled 275 yards and four rushing touchdowns. McDonald completed 6 of 11 passes for 75 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Czavian Teasett had 127 yards passing and 56 yards rushing for Southern. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-footballCleanSpark Reports Record-Breaking FY 2024 Results: Outpacing Halving and Difficulty
Cencora's executive chairman Steven Collis sells $5.2 million in stockThe Bees maintain their unbeaten home record with a dominant display against newly-promoted Leicester at the Gtech Community Stadium. Yoane Wissa cancelled out Facundo Buonanotte 's opener, before Kevin Schade netted the first hat-trick of his career to take the game away from the Foxes. The commanding victory took Brentford's tally to 20 points, leaving them in seventh position and three points adrift of the top four ahead of Sunday's fixtures. While it may have been a successful day, Brentford would have been sad to see Jensen forced off in the first period of Saturday's contest. © Imago The Denmark international had to be replaced in the 42nd minute by Vitaly Janelt after picking up a hamstring issue. Frank explained after the game that Jensen was taken off as a precautionary measure but admitted it was too early to know the full extent of the midfielder's injury. "It was his [left] hamstring," Frank told reporters. "We need to assess him tomorrow but it was more precautionary. I hope he will be okay, but we need to see tomorrow." Brentford will hope that Jensen's injury is nothing too serious, especially as he has already missed five Premier League games this season with a calf problem. © Imago Frank made the decision to give Schade his first Premier League start since a 2-1 defeat against Manchester United on October 19. Schade vindicated Frank's selection with three goals and an assist to take home the match ball and earn significant praise from his manager. "Three goals and an assist, it's a dream number for any offensive player," Frank said in a post-match interview with Sky Sports . "I'm so happy for him because he is another young man that wants to do the best that he can to perform. He had the injury last season, started the season well, and now everything he hit today went in - very good finishes and a fantastic assist. I'm glad I picked him." Schade will look to build upon his impressive display when the Bees travel to Villa Park for Wednesday's clash with Aston Villa.
Trump's TikTok love raises stakes in battle over app's fate
Strictly fans took to social media to air their grievances during the semi-final, feeling incensed by Shirley Ballas who they perceived as lavishing unjust praise and high scores on Pete Wicks. Despite never facing a dance-off, ex-TOWIE personality Pete Wicks has reached the semi-finals, leaving some to question his place, especially when more accomplished dancers have been sent home. The discontent bubbled over almost as soon as the show began, with viewers quick to express their doubts about his standing next to fellow semi-finalists Chris McCausland, Tasha Ghouri, JB Gill, and Sarah Hadland. Tensions heightened after Pete's initial performance, during which head judge Shirley Ballas even bestowed upon him the title 'Mr Strictly'. Shirley conveyed to Pete her unique judging perspective, focusing on his journey within the contest rather than a direct comparison with others. She commented, "You are Mr Strictly Come Dancing. You are what this show is about. Everybody at home, all the parents, will be sitting there and thinking, 'if Pete can do it, I can do it' and you will inspire people to go to the dance studio." "You had no experience whatsoever coming in. I thought you did a very good job on your footwork and your neckline.... week one you were like this and today you were shining. You didn't make any mistakes, you did a grand job. You should walk with your head high - you are absolutely Mr Strictly Come Dancing.", reports the Mirror . She went on to award him the highest mark of all the judges - nine out of 10 - giving him a total of 32 out of 40. But viewers were not entirely convinced by Shirley's generous critique and took to Twitter to voice their displeasure. One user commented: "SHIRLEY CALLING PETE MR STRICTLY COME DANCING LIKE MONTELL DIDNT ALSO START FROM NOTHING BUT NEVER GOT THAT PRAISE. The bias is RIDICULOUS." Another added: "Sh*rley can retire after calling pete mr strictly come dancing after criticising tasha for coming out of lifts, it's completely unfair to treat contestants so differently. Pete is not the first or last person to start at nothing NOT EVEN IN THIS SERIES." Yet another tweet read: "shirley calling pete "mr strictly come dancing" when he shouldn't even be in the semi finals in the first place..." Alongside: "Shirley acting like Pete is God's gift to dancing and giving him a bloody 9." One more disgruntled fan wrote: "Shirley giving that a 9? ? I've defended her all series but scoring that the same as JB and Sarah? Please.." The controversy follows the shock of last weekend's dance-off which saw Olympian Montell Douglas and Tasha Ghouri end up in the bottom two, resulting in Montell being sent home following the judges' decision.Young men swung to the right for Trump after a campaign dominated by masculine appealsKnight stops 20 shots, Florida rolls past Carolina 6-0 for 2nd win over 'Canes in as many days
MUNICH (AP) — Harry Kane is the quickest player to score 50 goals in the Bundesliga after scoring a hat trick on his 43rd appearance on Friday. Kane’s three goals – including two penalties – gave Bayern a 3-0 win over Augsburg , stretching the Bavarian powerhouse’s lead to eight points ahead of the rest of the 11th round.Georgia QB Carson Beck returns from hand injury for final snap in SEC championship OT win over TexasBrock Purdy participated in the start of Thursday's practice with the 49ers but the San Francisco starting quarterback was not on the field for the majority of the workout, casting doubt over his availability to play Sunday at Green Bay. Purdy is dealing with a right shoulder injury and the 49ers are also potentially without left tackle Trent Williams and Nick Bosa due to injuries. Bosa was listed as out of Thursday's practice with an oblique injury. Williams also didn't suit up Thursday. He played through an ankle injury last week after being listed as questionable. Purdy's typical Thursday post-practice media session was scrapped until Friday as the 49ers did not make any quarterback available. Kyle Allen would step in for Purdy as the starter if he can't play against the Packers. Run game coordinator Chris Foerster said the 49ers aren't where they want to be at 5-5 because they haven't won close games, not because of injuries. "Seven games left is like an eternity," Foerster said. "So much can happen. Do the math. What was our record last year? It was 12-5. I was on a 13-win team that was nowhere near as good as the team last year." With or without Purdy, Foerster said the challenge for the 49ers is not to give up the ball to a defense that has 19 takeaways. The 49ers have 13 giveaways this season. --Field Level Media
( MENAFN - GlobeNewsWire - Nasdaq) NEW YORK, Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C., a nationally recognized stockholder rights law firm, is investigating potential claims against Sezzle Inc. (“Sezzle” or the“Company”) (NASDAQ: SEZL) on behalf of Sezzle stockholders. Our investigation concerns whether Sezzle has violated the federal securities laws and/or engaged in other unlawful business practices. Click here to participate in the action. On December 18, 2024, Hindenburg Research published a report alleging, among other things, that:“Sezzle seems to be boosting its near-term subscription numbers with sketchy enrollment practices. The company has faced numerous customer complaints for enrolling users into recurring monthly subscriptions without their awareness, according to user complaints and the company's own FAQ.” Following this report, the price of the Company's stock dropped. If you purchased or otherwise acquired Sezzle shares and suffered a loss, are a long-term stockholder, have information, would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Brandon Walker or Marion Passmore by email at ... , by telephone at (212) 355-4648, or by filling out this contact form . There is no cost or obligation to you. About Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C.: Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. is a nationally recognized law firm with offices in New York and California. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in commercial, securities, derivative, and other complex litigation in state and federal courts across the country. For more information about the firm, please visit . Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Contact Information: Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. Brandon Walker, Esq. Marion Passmore, Esq. (212) 355-4648 ... MENAFN23122024004107003653ID1109025587 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Tests keep coming for Auburn and Duke, who collide at Cameron Indoor Stadium in a typical prove-it game in a rare environment on Wednesday night. No. 2 Auburn and No. 9 Duke square off less than one month into the season as two of the most battle-tested teams in basketball. They're matched as one of the marquee games in the crossover showcase known as the ACC-SEC Challenge. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.Florida 6, Carolina 0My Honest Review Of Alpha Heat Heated Vest Exposed