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Yearly Archives: 2017

So, if you've ever used Tinder you'll know there are certain types of pictures that pop up time and time again.

The classic mirror snap, posing with friends in front of the Iamsterdam sign, oh and of course, the dreaded tiger selfie.

Well, prepare to see a notable absence of endangered species on your next swipe session, because Tinder are finally cracking down on displays of animal cruelty.

In a new message posted to their website, Tinder wrote:

“Posing next to a king of the jungle doesn’t make you one.”

“It’s time for the tiger selfies to go. More often than not, these photos take advantage of beautiful creatures that have been torn from their natural environment.”

And honestly, we couldn't agree more.

The move comes following pressure from animal rights campaigners at PETA who wrote an open letter to Tinder owner, Sean Rad.

“While most of us are on Tinder to find a soulmate or a date, appearing on the app isn’t fun for everyone,” they wrote.

“What might, at first swipe, look like a harmless picture actually means that someone was caged, dominated, and tied down or drugged before their photo was taken and uploaded online.”

“If this happened to one of your users on a Tinder date, you’d block the profile of the person responsible immediately. Unfortunately, this is the reality for tigers, lions, and other big cats who are featured in an alarming number of Tinder profile photos.”

The dating app are now insisting that all users remove their tiger selfies and have donated $10,000 to Project Cat, a charity working to protect endangered tigers.

G'wan Tinder!

Now if you guys could put a ban on those cringe-worthy “here for a good time, not a long time” bios, we'll be golden.

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A vegan café in Melbourne, Australia, are charging male customers an 18 per cent 'man tax' in an effort to address the gender pay gap.

Handsome Her, described as a café 'for women, by women', also offer priority seating to females and asks that those who choose to dine at the establishment respect the rules.

According to Seven News, the 18 per cent premium runs for just one week a month and is completely optional, though no one has refused to pay so far.

“If men don't want to pay it, we're not going to kick them out the door. It's just an opportunity to do some good,” says café owner, Alex O'Brien.

The proceeds from the premium go to women's services and the café plans to rotate charities four times per year.

As a self-proclaimed “feminist, not the fun kind”, Alex told Broadsheet that she hopes to start a conversation and raise awareness around the issue of the gender pay gap.

“We’re bringing it to the forefront of people's minds. I like that it is making men stop and question their privilege a little bit,” she said.

“One of my friends who works for a not-for-profit women's service was talking about the pay gap and I thought it was a good idea, so we decided that one week every month we would charge men an 18 per cent premium, which we will donate.”

The move has sparked a mixed reaction online, with some Twitter users criticising the café's “inhospitable man policy.”

But of course, many were in favour of the move. 

According to Metro.co.uk, one male customer even donated $50.00 because he love the concept so much.

August's proceeds will go to Elizabeth Morgan House, which helps Aboriginal women and children.

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Bad new guys – those trendy copper mugs popping up all over your Instagram feed could actually wreack havoc on your insides.

The Moscow Mule, a cocktail made from a refreshing mix of vodka, ginger beer and lime juice, is fast becoming one of the must-try beverages of 2017.

Often served in a picture-perfect copper-coloured mug, the drink has become a favourite among millenials looking to grab the perfect Insta-worth snap.

 

Couldn't have #brunch without a #MoscowMuel ##sundayfunday #tampa #oxfordexchange #weekend

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However, concerns over the safety of the drinking vessel have emerged after experts at a US state department warned that copper and copper alloys can be poisonous when consumed.

It seems that when these metals come in contact with substances with a pH level lower then six, copper may leak into the liquid contained in the mug and thus be accidentally consumed by the cocktail drinker. 

"High concentrations of copper are poisonous and have caused food borne illness," the statement explains.

"When copper and copper alloy surfaces contact acidic foods, copper may be leached into the food."

 

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However, all hope is not lost.

All cocktail loving Instagrammers will be happy to know that a copper-coloured mug is safe to drink from if it is lined with another metal, such as nickel or stainless steel.

Of course, it's important to check before you start to drink and if in doubt, opt for the much safer (albeit, not nearly as beautiful) classic glass tumbler instead.

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Kate Beckinsale has hit out at the unattainable expectations put on young women when it comes to the shape and size of their own bodies.

During a recent interview on US talk show, Chelsea Handler, the 44-year-old actress spoke about the advice she gives to her 18-year-old daughter, Lily.

“Now you’re supposed to have…a ridiculous ass and ridiculous boobs and a tiny waist and everything else.

“And it's this sort of unconscious way of controlling women to distract them into a kind of self-loathing.

“And meanwhile a lot of political s*** is happening…. maybe we can’t have abortions anymore, that sort of thing.”

Kate then reffered to Susan Faludi's book, Backlash: The Undeclared War Against American Women, revealing that she had urged her daughter to read the award winning title that argues the existence of a media driven "backlash" against the feminist advances of the 1970s.

“She talks about how when, politically, women make big strides it seems to always happen that the fashion becomes for a completely unattainable body type,” she said.

“It’s a sort of unconscious way of controlling women to distract them into a kind of self-loathing. You get the vote, but it means … you can’t have any boobs”.

She added that “the more we get sucked in and concentrate on our own a**, the more stuff can happen to us”.

The actress also spoke openly about the close relationship she shares with her ex, Micheal Sheen, saying both of them were entirely devoted to raising their daughter together.

Kate and Michael were together for eight years before they eventually went their separate ways in 2003.

Micheal is currently in a relationship with American comedian, Sarah Silverman, while Kate is rumoured to be dating 21-year-old Matt Rife.

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It looks like Cynthia Nixon could be the latest to celebrity to turn her attention to politics as reports suggest the actress is emerging as a possible candidate in next year's election for New York governor.

The former Sex and the City star has been involved in the city's political scene for some time now and according to Entertainment Weekly, both the Associated Press and Wall Street Journal have reported that liberal groups are urging the 51-year-old to consider running for office.

With a sizable presence in New York political circles, Cynthia, who is an outspoken advocate for public school, is more than qualified for the position.

“She’s an out-of-the-box candidate with progressive credentials who would excite people,” Billy Easton, executive director of the Alliance for Quality Education, a public-education advocacy group, told the Journal.

Fans will remember Cynthia for her Sex and the City character, Miranda Hobbes – a straight-talking lawyer with extremely cynical views on relationships and men.

And to be honest, Miranda would probably make a pretty great governor too.

Although her candidacy is yet to be confirmed, the actress turned political activist has yet to dismiss the speculation, leading some to believe that there may be some truth behind the rumours.

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So, what's the one thing guaranteed to put a smile on your face at the end of a busy week?

Maybe it's a sneaky take-away from your favourite Chinese, or perhaps it's a glass of wine with friends?

Sure, these little rituals can do us the world of good when we're in desperate need of a bit of rest and relaxation, but it seem that the biggest joy of all comes from the small surprises from our nearest and dearest.

According to new statistics, 43 per cent of Irish adults say that receiving a small treat from a family member puts a smile on their face at the end of a hectic week.

The research, which marks the launch of a new brand evolution for Tesco Ireland, Family Makes Us Better, shows that family, in any shape or form, is an essential part of Irish life with 84 per cent of those surveyed revealing that a family member is the first person they call when something significant happens in their life.

The top five treats / surprises from family members that are likely to put a smile on people’s faces at the end of a busy week are:

1. Breakfast / lunch / dinner prepared by a family member (75%)

2. All the family having a meal together (66%)

3. Cup of tea being made by a family member (64%) – And it looks like no one enjoys a good cup of tea more than our friends out west because in Connacht this figures rose to 79%

4. Favourite packet of biscuits in the house as a treat (62%)

5. A night off from clearing the table after dinner / doing the dishes (54%)

It seems that our family life can influence us in many ways – right down to the shopping we fill our trolleys with.

One in five Irish adults admitted to getting inspiration form their parents when it came to the weekly shop, with many saying they were drawn to brands they were brought up on.

When it comes to mealtimes, 46 per cent of Irish people say they are all about family fun.

Whether you sit down as a family every night, or even just once a year, it seems that half of all Irish families have a set seat at the table.

What's more, 33 per cent of families put away their mobile phones during mealtimes, and 41 per cent say that loud chewing is by far their biggest pet peeve.

Sean Nolan, Head of Customer Marketing, Tesco Ireland said: “Our research really shows that we think about our families when we shop, gleaning inspiration from the broader sense of family for example from a partnership, a sibling, to a sports club or a community group.

“Family is something that means a lot to Irish people, through the little things we do for our loved ones. To that end, at Tesco we’re committed to putting family at the heart of everything we do. Our Family Makes Us Better creative uses real Irish family moments and shows that we recognise how important family is to shoppers in Ireland and will demonstrate how Tesco works to make family life better too.”

The research also identified four distinct culinary tastes showing a trend toward more adventurous dining habits.

44 per cent of people described themselves as ‘The Culinary Adventurer’, experimenting with recipes from around the world, while 35 per cent claimed to be the classic ‘The Meat & Two Veg’ type.

13 per cent identified as ‘The Picky-Eater’ and just 8 per cent said that they were ‘The Well-being Warrior’ opting for a more holistic approach to their meals.

So, there you have it, we're a nation of tea-drinking, food loving, family orientated messers, and honestly, we wouldn't have it any other way.

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Dublin Airport look set to introduce new 'e-gates' in an effort to enhance security and speed up immigration queues.

The electronic border control gates will allow passengers travelling on biometric passports and Irish passport cards to pass through security by scanning their document and having their photo taken.

According to reports, the twenty new gates (10 in Terminal One and 10 in Terminal Two), will be up and running by the end of 2017.

A small number of e-gates were previously in operation on a trail basis in Terminal One, however, these were removed in May of this year over a reported maintenance row.

Minister for Justice and Equality, Charlie Flanagan today confirmed the signing of a contract for the supply and installation of the new gates.

Welcoming the move, Minister Flanagan said, “Following a very thorough pilot programme and competitive tender, I believe that we’ve found a solution that matches our goals and requirements. We look forward to working with Vision-Box, through the award of this framework agreement.”

The introduction of e-Gates will greatly enhance our immigration controls, including our border security, while at the same time providing an improved passenger experience through self-service and speedier passage through the immigration process.”   

Dublin airport immigration services processed a record 13.8 million arriving passengers in 2016 and it is hoped the introduction of an electronic system will dramatically cut waiting times.

If successful, the new gates will be rolled out to other ports of entry.

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It's hard to believe Keeping Up With The Kardashians will celebrate it's tenth anniversary this year – although, does anyone really remember what life was like before the famous family took over our televisions?

To celebrate a decade of life on the small screen, the reality show will air a 10-year anniversary special on E! on September 24.

It's reported that executive producer, Ryan Seacrest, is set to host the programme, while Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian, as well as Kris, Kendall and Kylie Jenner will all gather to reflect on their TV journey.

Both Caitlyn Jenner and Rob Kardashian look unlikely to make appearances.

It's thought that Caitlyn has alienated herself from the family following comments made about them in her memoir, The Secrets of My Life, while troubled Rob is currently dealing with the consequences of the revenge porn attack he launched on ex-girlfriend, Blac Chyna, earlier this year.

However, it is thought that the Lord Disick himself may drop by to look back on some of his greatest one-liners of the past decade.

Love it or hate it, the Kardashians aren't going anywhere fast, so why not sit back, relax and relive all when the 10th anniversary special airs Saturday, Sept. 24 on E!. 

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An investigation is underway following a fatal incident in Co Clare in the early hours of Sunday morning.

A 25-year-old man has died after he was stabbed in the Marion Estate in Kilkee in Co Clare at around 1.15am.

The man was taken to University Hospital Limerick but was later pronounced dead.

A 22-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the investigation and is currently being held at Kilrush Garda Station.

The scene at Kilkee has been preserved for a technical examination and the Garda Technical Bureau are scheduled to attend later this morning.

Gardaí at Kilrush, Co Clare have appealed for witnesses or anyone with information to contact them at 065 9080550, the Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111 or any garda station.

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Suzanne Jackson married her sweetheart Dylan O'Connor today in what was surely a stunning ceremony. 

Fans of the social media influencer and businesswoman waited with baited breath for the first images of her wedding dress to roll in, as the blogger has kept her dress design under lock and key in the run up to the wedding.

Finally, the images appeared online, and the floodgates of opinion opened as followers gushed over Suzanne's glamorous wedding look.  

Suzanne opted for a full skirted dress with intricate lace sleeves and a plunging sweetheart neckline. 

The beautiful look was topped off with a lace veil and a crown of perfectly coifed Hollywood curls. 

And seriously, we need the name of her makeup artist ASAP. 

Twitter and Instagram have been completely filled with images of one of Ireland's most notable bloggers, and the reactions have been pouring in from fans, friends and followers. 

Check out some of the reactions for yourself below:

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90's hero Hilary Duff has a simple but effective message for anyone who tries to body-shame her.

Hilary, 29, hit back at those who criticised her figure after photos of her in a swimsuit circulated online.

Taking to Instagram, the actress shared a photo of herself in a gingham swimsuit with her back to the camera.

 

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'I am posting this on behalf of young girls, women, and mothers of all ages,' she wrote to her eight million followers.

'Since websites and magazines love to share ‘celeb flaws’ — well I have them! My body has given me the greatest gift of my life: Luca, five years ago.'

'I’m turning 30 in September and my body is healthy and gets me where I need to go.'

 

A post shared by Hilary Duff (@hilaryduff) on

'Ladies, let’s be proud of what we’ve got and stop wasting precious time in the day wishing we were different, better, and unflawed.'

'You guys (you know who you are!) already know how to ruin a good time, and now you are body-shamers as well #kissmyass.'

In the past, Hilary has opened up about her insecurities about her body and how she learned to be more body confident.

In a previous Instagram post, Hilary wrote: "I didn't always love my legs, but as I've grown, I've learned to love and celebrate myself, just as I am. I began to realize that my legs are STRONG and they carry me every. single. day.

Our bodies are amazing and something to be grateful for. I'm ME and that's really enough!”

 

A post shared by Hilary Duff (@hilaryduff) on

Her fans praised her for sharing the message of body positivity and self-acceptance. 'To hell with the naysayers! You look fantastic!' one wrote.

While another commented: 'Owning it is what makes us strong inside and out. Great way to send a powerful message'.

Meanwhile, another ardent fan replied: 'I am so proud!! I've been your fan when I was 12 years old, now I am 25, and it's important for me (and everyone) to see a celebrity showing that women are much more than bodies. Thank you.'

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You may know Tropical Popical for their intricate nail designs, eclectic nail bar and penchant for Lilt.

While creating bespoke nail art for the masses is their priority, the women behind TropPop stand for a lot more than well-groomed cuticles. 

As well as showing their support for the Repeal Project, Tropical Popical have turned their attention to the issue of period poverty. 

It may not be something that immediately crosses your mind when you consider the day-to-day struggles of homeless women, but period poverty is a big issue. 

Women residing on the streets or in shelters are often left without any options when it comes to managing their periods. 

As pointed out by Tropical Popical via a recent Instagram post: 'Whenever you get your period, think of the women experiencing #PeriodPoverty and pop an extra pack of tampons or pads or mooncups in your basket.'

'We always have a #HomelessPeriodDublin drop off point on the go and as women get their period every month (yes, we did biology in the leaving), there's a constant need for sanitary products.'

The fantastic initiative will change the quality of life for homeless women, so when you head to Boots this month to pick up your sanitary product of choice, make sure you duplicate your usual purchase and donate to TropPop's drop off point. 

You can find their innovative nail bar at 28 South William Street, Dublin.

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