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IRELAND AM star Muireann O’Connell has said the Irish housing market is “hopeless” compared to Australia.

The Limerick host recently became a first-time home owner with her fiance after years of gruelling house hunting.

The search for her forever home wasn’t easy and Muireann has even recalled people crying at viewings.

After blood, sweat and tears, the popular presenter finally went sale agreed and became a home owner earlier this month.

But, even after securing her first-ever property, the 41-year-old has told how “hopeless” the buying process feels.

Speaking on Louise Cooney’s podcast, Open Book, Muireann said: “It just feels more than dysfunctional, it feels very hopeless for an awful lot of people.”

She admitted: “But it’s just that the process is the wild, wild west.”

The TV star explained how her close pals who live in Australia can’t comprehend the struggle of buying a home.

Muireann explained: “They’re like, ‘The house just goes up, this is the price of the house, someone bids and there you go, you get yourself a house.

“It’s done in like 10 days.”

The breakfast show host highlighted how a lack of “supply” is the main problem with the Irish housing market.

But, noted that length of the buying process is also a tough factor.

The Virgin Media star even reminisced on her own experience with viewing homes.

She said: “One woman was pregnant and she also had a child with her. The house was already 140,000 over the asking price and she just wept, it was crazy.”

Beside the struggle of buying a home, Muireann has also had a tough time with renovating her new pad.

Whilst the new home is being renovated Muireann and her partner will remain in their Dublin city home which they have lived in since 2017.

HOUSE THAT?

Taking to Instagram, the star expressed her immense struggle with packing up all her belongings for the new property.

The Limerick lady said: “Probably the most viscerally horrible thing to ever happen to me was getting the coil. Awful, I hated it, it should be given under general anastethic.

“But, would I chose to have that procedure done everyday rather than clearing out my house and packing up, yes.”

The Irish host highlighted how she had been living in her current home since 2017, but had found items that belonged to her in 2003.

She cried: “I didn’t even live in Dublin in 2003, how did you get in to this house? Why are you here? Do you spark joy in my life? No!”

Muireann shook her head ashamedly and added: “Look I know I am an over consumer, it is a reckoning and I’m having a bit of an existential crisis about that right now.”

THE 1% Club has knocked out 8 players with an ‘easy’ picture question – but could you solve it in 30 seconds?

The popular quiz show, fronted by Lee Mack, is known for leaving players with their minds boggling thanks to its tough questions as the game goes on.

However for most of the 100 players, they manage to sail through the first few round which are deemed easy thanks to most of the general public being able to correctly answer them.

But for one episode of the Saturday night quiz favourite, eight people fell at an early hurdle.

They all failed to correctly identify the answer to the 80% question – which was all about shapes.

Reading the question aloud, Lee said: “You walk 10 miles northeast, then turn south and walk a further 20 miles.

“You then walk in a straight line back to your starting point. What shape do you make?”

With 30 seconds on the clock, the players did their best to attempt to answer the question.

As Lee joked that if he walked that far he’d have to call an Uber.

Once the time was up, Lee revealed that eight people had been knocked out and that the answer was a triangle.

Meanwhile, a recent episode of the show saw the studio filled with celebrities instead of members of the public.

The likes of Chris Hughes, I’m a Celeb winner Jill Scott, TV presenter Paddy McGuinness and Tommy Fury all took part.

Other celeb names included Scarlette Douglass, Iain Stirling and Westlife singer Brian McFadden.

However, things took an interesting turn on the show when Lee got to the 60% question.

He asked: “Which four-letter word fills all the gaps to create footballing phrases?”

Look here to find out what happened.

Elsewhere, The 1% Club fans called out a ‘difficult’ question on ITV and insisted the correct answer ‘can’t be done’ – but would you get it?

And a contestant on the show was left shocked by a strict rule that means you can be kicked off the show instantly.

Plus, three contestants were left stumped by a tricky letter riddle that whittled down the competition in its final stages.

Finally, a question on The 1% Club wiped out players from the get-go – despite being deemed as easy.

TAKE a look at the five best playgrounds near beaches for a fun free family day out this summer.

With temperatures reaching 27C across the country this week, there are lots of fantastic spots to visit with kids that won’t cost you a cent.

Ardigillan Castle

There are some top playgrounds you can visit with kids for free this summer[/caption]

Skerries Mills / Facebook

They are all located nearby stunning beaches[/caption]

Up first is Ardgillan Castle Demesne, situated in North County Dublin on an elevated coastline between Balbriggan and Skerries.

Ardgillan Castle playground

The spectacular 194-acre parkland with stunning gardens is only 32 kilometres north of Dublin city.

It is perfect for an enchanting adventure or a magical family day out surrounded by stunning coastal landscapes and rich history.

The state-of-the-art playground has over 30 pieces of play equipment to enjoy, from cradle swings for the very young to a large climbing net for older children (under 12).

The playground is set in an elevated location overlooking the Irish Sea and is easily accessed from the main car park through a woodland walk, which is very close by.

Balbriggan Beach is an ideal walking spot that’s just minutes away, and visitors can enjoy views of the Martello Tower, Bremore Castle, and an 18th-century Lighthouse.

Skerries’ picturesque harbour, is also close by, with cosy cafes and friendly bars all act as magnets for people enjoying this seaside fishing town.

Up next is Skerries Mill playground – located just a 43 minute drive from Dublin city centre, and is also reachable by public transport.

Skerries Mill playground

It was opened in 2021, and has been a huge hit with both locals and tourists.

And it’s just 3 minutes from Skerries beach, which makes it the perfect addition to a day out.

The natural playground is right beside windmills and overlooks the river, offering a stunning view – especially during the summer.

It caters to kids of all ages and abilities, so all children can experience the fun.

What’s more, the beautiful Killiney Hill Park that overlooks both Dalkey and Killiney villages in Dublin is another top spot to visit.

Killiney Hill Park

The wooden playground caters to kids of all ages and abilities, so all children can join in the fun.

Young ones will get their energy pumping on the multiple climbing structures.

The swings cater for both little kids and older ones while the he giant-sized see-saw will keep everyone busy – big and small. 

Adventurers will love the enchanting climbing castle with a fun slide.

The gorgeous wooden knight merry-go-round is perfect for small children. 

There are views of Dublin in all directions and it’s just a 16-minute walk from Killiney DART station along with a six minute drive from the stunning Killiney Beach.

Malahide Castle Playground in Co Dublin is another must-visit for families this summer.

Malahide Castle Playground

Located just 20 minutes from Dublin city centre, it’s the perfect destination for a fun and easy day trip as the weather gets warmer.

With wide open spaces, stunning grounds, and a fantastic playground, it’s an ideal spot for families – and it’s open all year round.

One of the standout features is the large wooden play structure inspired by a castle theme, complete with towers, bridges and slides and a zipline.

Here, kids can climb, swing, and slide while parents relax nearby and take in the stunning views of the castle grounds.

And just a short drive away is the stunning seaside town of Malahide, which offers plenty to explore after a visit to the playground.

The nearby Malahide Beach is another favourite for families, with its long stretches of sand, gentle waves and beautiful coastal views.

And lastly, St Anne’s Park in Clontarf, Co Dublin, boasts a themed playground with swings, slides and wooden towers that is designed to entertain the children.

St Anne’s Park

For children, they can opt for colourful wooden play equipment facilitating pretend play such as train, horse & cart, tractor, plane and animals.

There are also multi-play units with slides suitable for children above 2 years old, some springers, several climbing structures and a few traditional swings, including a baby swing.

And the best thing is that there’s always something newly developed in the park, including the newly established wobbly crocodile and the Viking ship for the young visitors.

But do not fret, older children can opt for the long zip wire and a giant spider web that encourages them to climb to the top – giving them an incredible view of the park.

For adults, they can take a lovely stroll to the ornamental pond or to the lovely rose gardens – a perfect break from the kids with your partner.

If you are planning to do a little exploration in the area, try venturing to the majestic North Bull Island, which boasts a mile-long stretch of sandy beach.

It takes about ten minutes to reach from the park’s entrance to the sandy beach, making it an ideal destination for a day trip during the summer.

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A fun family day out doesn’t have to break the bank[/caption]

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Malahide Castle playground makes for a fantastic family day out[/caption]

Alamy

St Anne’s Park is home to stunning rose gardens[/caption]

The Thai-Cambodian border checkpoint at Chong Sai Taku in Ban Kruat district, Buriram, has been closed by the military following a protest involving Cambodian visitors at Ta Kwai temple in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin, on June 21. This temple is a point of contention between Thailand and Cambodia. A group of 30 Cambodian visitors …

The story Thai-Cambodian border checkpoint closures amid protest tensions as seen on Thaiger News.

In an intriguing turn of events, immigration officials, alongside the ever-determined Customs Department, unraveled a clandestine operation at Suvarnabhumi International Airport this balmy June 23rd. Their keen eyes and swift action led to the apprehension of a foreign national attempting the unwise art of smuggling heroin. The substances, cunningly concealed within innocent-looking metal pipes, were uncovered in a manner befitting an international spy thriller. The suspect, who had recently roamed the quiet landscapes of Laos, was about to learn that some truths are simply too slippery to keep hidden. The intelligence motto seemed to ring, “One step ahead,” as the Suvarnabhumi Airport Investigation and Suppression Division got wind of the nefarious plot. Rumblings within Customs whispered of a foreign hand seeking to snake contraband through Thailand’s borders. Not a pair of feet had touched the ground before the diligent officers were on high alert, ready to play their part in…

In a tragic twist of fate, the hopeful end to a long-standing rivalry turned lethal amidst the shadowy alleyways of Samut Sakhon, a bustling province in central Thailand. On June 22, the dawn’s early light revealed a grim discovery on Khaerai Road, where the lifeless form of 33-year-old Auan, known affectionately as Yee Tung Sing, a nod to the recycling venture he ran hand-in-hand with his wife, lay beside his parked motorcycle. The mournful echoes of reconciliation had scarcely settled in the digital realm, Auan’s last beaming selfie captured with his rival on Facebook, accompanied by the telling caption: “Finally, a long-standing issue between us ended.” However, reality spun a different tale, one written in blood and shattered glass. Auan’s tragic demise resulted from a head wound, with the remnants of a broken bottle nestled close by – an ominous clue that spoke volumes of conflict untamed. His motorcycle, silently…

In an unexpected turn of events today, June 23, 2025, the picturesque Thai-Cambodian border became a hub of action and intrigue in the Sa Kaeo province. Thai authorities dropped quite the proverbial bombshell by imposing an immediate ban on Cambodian-registered motorbikes and modified vehicles from venturing into the kingdom through the bustling Ban Khlong Luek permanent border checkpoint in Aranyaprathet district. This significant move by Thailand countered Cambodia’s recent halt on importing fuel and gas from its neighbor with an equal measure of repulsion, leaving locals in an electrifying buzz. As the first light of dawn flickered over the horizon at 5 am, the Thai military’s Burapha Task Force was already on high alert. An air of solemn duty wrapped their efforts to enforce this border order with the utmost precision. The familiar sight of Cambodian workers lined up on motorbikes, sidecars, and the ever-charming tuk-tuks vanished, a consequence of…

A BUDGET buy can add a fun touch to your garden while also helping your plants thrive.

Dunelm shoppers can now pick up this “adorable” item for cheaper than ever.

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A budget-friendly buy can help to add a personal touch to your potted plants (stock image)[/caption]

This garden decor item proves to be both fun and functional for your plants.

The Single Resin Hedgehog Pot Feet are now available for just £2.45, reduced from £3.50.

According to the product description, these pot feet “bring both cuteness and functionality to your plant display”.

Described as “tiny, spiky friends”, these buys are weatherproof and easy to clean.

As well as adding personality to your space, these items will “elevate your pots for better airflow”.

They add over five centimetres of space between your plant pot and the ground.

This is a crucial step for preventing waterlogging and root rot in your plants. 

By elevating your pots, you are allowing for better drainage of the soil.

This prevents excess moisture from accumulating around the plant’s roots. 

It helps to maintain healthy root systems and avoids the issues associated with overwatering.

This can include everything from fungal diseases to nutrient deficiencies.

“Whether indoors or outdoors, they’ll add a touch of woodland whimsy to your décor,” said the product description.

And a £4 Home Bargains buy will also help to add a “whimsical touch” to your garden while lighting it up.

And another Home Bargains buy will brighten up your space while making it look like something out of Bridgerton.

Plus, a tree helps to add privacy to your garden and it’s now cheaper than ever.

Or you can add a fast-growing flower to cover eyesore walls and fences in your garden.

Meanwhile, Amazon has a £14 privacy buy that is described as “perfect” for summer.

Another privacy fence is also available from Amazon, for just £5.

B&Q has an affordable privacy fence currently on sale, and you can put it up yourself.

And a £10 B&M product adds inches to your fence, elevating your garden’s privacy.

You can also add a stylish touch to your privacy fence with another B&M buy.

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Placing the Hedgehog Pot Feet under your planters adds a fun touch and helps drain the soil[/caption]

KELSEY Parker is being supported by a slew of celebrity pals after opening up the tragic death of her baby.

The devastated mum of two’s support network has come out in full force to share her sorrow after she bravely announced her third baby was “born sleeping” just a week before its due date.

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Kelsey Parker is being supported by a slew of her celebrity pals after her baby’s tragic death[/caption]

Instagram @being_kelsey

She tragically told how her baby was ‘born sleeping, forever loved’[/caption]

Rex

Kelsey, 34, took to Instagram to reveal the name of her third child, Phoenix Parker-Lindsay, alongside a heart-wrenching poem on her loss.

She shared the news by posting the piece to fans, which read: “For Phoenix. Born sleeping, forever loved.”

The phoenix bird symbolises immortality, resurrection and life after death.

Kelsey – who announced in January she was expecting her first baby with boyfriend Will Lindsay – wrote on social media: “Before I receive an influx of lovely messages and heartfelt well wishes, I want to just say that I truly appreciate everything you are all going to say and share.

“But with the news being so raw, I would really like to ensure that we as a family are given space and time to process this devastating and earth-shattering news.

“I love you all and thank you for your understanding and space.”

After uploading the raw message, her followers were on hand to offer support and messages of condolence.

Kate Ferdinand then posted: “Oh Kelsey, I’m so sorry. You’ve been through so much as a family already, this feels so unfair.

“Thinking of you all and sending so much love.”

She was referring to the fact that Kelsey lost her childhood sweetheart husband Tom Parker in 2022 aged 33 following a brain tumour diagnosis.

Tom was aged just 33 when he died of glioblastoma, a rare and aggressive cancer, just 18 months after diagnosis.

She shares two children, five-year-old Aurelia and Bodhi, four, with The Wanted star.

The family have remained dedicated to raising funds for brain tumour research in Tom‘s honour with an annual charity football match in his memory.

Married At First Sight expert and podcast host Paul Carrick-Brunson then shared his close bond with Kelsey, and wrote: “Kelsey, I’m heartbroken for you.

“Over the last year, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know your strength, your grace, and the immense love you carry.

“This loss is beyond words. I’m holding you and your family in my heart. May you feel surrounded by love as you begin to heal.”

Giovanna Fletcher then put: “A beautiful name for a beautiful soul. I’m so sorry for your loss Kelsey.”

The trio were just a handful of celebs who sent their best wishes, with fellow mum and TOWIE alum Amy Childs who added: “I’m so sorry for your loss Kelsey.”

Fans were also quick to add their messages of sadness.

KELSEY’S JOURNEY

Kelsey went public with her new relationship in September last year, saying she knew her late husband Tom would “send the right man for her.”

She excitedly revealed her pregnancy in January before being pictured ring shopping with her tree surgeon boyfriend, 27, earlier this month.

Yet just days ago, her “haunting” words about pregnancy came to light.

Kelsey said in March that she was trying to enjoy every moment of her pregnancy after losing her husband to a brain tumour in 2022 taught her “how precious life is”.

Speaking to OK! Magazine earlier this year, then-pregnant Kelsey said: “I’m due at the end of June. I’m trying to enjoy this pregnancy more, because I think when you’ve been through something like I’ve been through, you realise how precious life is.

“I know that sounds clichéd, but it’s true.”

YouTube/@The Diary of a CEO

Married At First Sight’s Paul C Brunson opened up on his bond with Kelsey[/caption]

Shutterstock Editorial

Podcast anchor Giovanna Fletcher sent a sweet message[/caption]

instagram/being_kelsey

Kelsey shares two kids with the late Tom Parker[/caption]

MANILA, Philippines — The government is preparing to roll out the fuel subsidy for motorists amid the threat of an oil price hike due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, a transportation official said on Monday. Transportation Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Mon Ilagan, in a public briefing, said they are expediting the finalization of