03/04/2009
Study Says 'Religious People Happier And Healthier'
A study from a conservative think-tank claims people who practice religion are happier and healthier than those who don't.
The Iona Institute is an influential pro-religion group, and in its new study published today the group claims its document The Psycho-Social Benefits Of Religious Practice is based on empirical research into how religious belief can enhance wellbeing.
The group says the study has found "psycho-social benefits" to religious practice associated with lower-than-average rates of depression and other mental illnesses and better rates of recovery following illness.
The study also claims to have found lower-than-average rates of alcohol and drug abuse, marital breakdown and crime in believers, along with a reduction in "sexual activity" among teenagers.
Having an active religious involvement is also responsible for an increase in life expectancy, according to a meta-analysis study, said the study's author, Professor Patricia Casey.
The Iona institute has faced criticism in the past over its views and alleged misrepresentation of statistics.
The institute was accused of homophobia in 2007 because of its opposition to the Irish Government recognising same-sex marriages.
In an open letter to the Irish Times, Christopher Robson of the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network said: "It should not be the function of the State to tell adult citizens whom they can or cannot marry. Even less the function of the Iona Institute."
The institute was also accused of disingenuously misinterpreting data coming from surveys on parental preferences in terms of denominational as against non and multi-denominational education models in Ireland to suit their pro-denominational viewpoint.
(DW/BMcC)
The Iona Institute is an influential pro-religion group, and in its new study published today the group claims its document The Psycho-Social Benefits Of Religious Practice is based on empirical research into how religious belief can enhance wellbeing.
The group says the study has found "psycho-social benefits" to religious practice associated with lower-than-average rates of depression and other mental illnesses and better rates of recovery following illness.
The study also claims to have found lower-than-average rates of alcohol and drug abuse, marital breakdown and crime in believers, along with a reduction in "sexual activity" among teenagers.
Having an active religious involvement is also responsible for an increase in life expectancy, according to a meta-analysis study, said the study's author, Professor Patricia Casey.
The Iona institute has faced criticism in the past over its views and alleged misrepresentation of statistics.
The institute was accused of homophobia in 2007 because of its opposition to the Irish Government recognising same-sex marriages.
In an open letter to the Irish Times, Christopher Robson of the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network said: "It should not be the function of the State to tell adult citizens whom they can or cannot marry. Even less the function of the Iona Institute."
The institute was also accused of disingenuously misinterpreting data coming from surveys on parental preferences in terms of denominational as against non and multi-denominational education models in Ireland to suit their pro-denominational viewpoint.
(DW/BMcC)
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Religious faiths are strong enough to withstand the removal of Blasphemy law, Fianna Fáil Justice and Equality Spokesperson Jim O'Callaghan has said ahead of the upcoming referendum. Deputy O'Callaghan, said: "In a Republic it is important that we all recognise and respect the right of individuals to express their religious beliefs.
Faith Strong Enough To Withstand Removal Of Blasphemy Law - FF
Religious faiths are strong enough to withstand the removal of Blasphemy law, Fianna Fáil Justice and Equality Spokesperson Jim O'Callaghan has said ahead of the upcoming referendum. Deputy O'Callaghan, said: "In a Republic it is important that we all recognise and respect the right of individuals to express their religious beliefs.
30 November 2007
Huge Waves Likely As Gales Lash Ireland
There is a major weather alert this weekend as the west coast of Ireland may experience some of the highest waves in years. Both the Marine Institute and Met Éireann have warned the conditions - particularly on Saturday afternoon - will be so bad as to be hazardous to ships and fishing vessels.
Huge Waves Likely As Gales Lash Ireland
There is a major weather alert this weekend as the west coast of Ireland may experience some of the highest waves in years. Both the Marine Institute and Met Éireann have warned the conditions - particularly on Saturday afternoon - will be so bad as to be hazardous to ships and fishing vessels.
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'People Are Not Better Off On Welfare', Says Study
A new study has refuted claims that people on social welfare are better off than those who earn their money through employment. According to the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) people on the dole would see their income jump by up to 50% if they got a job.
'People Are Not Better Off On Welfare', Says Study
A new study has refuted claims that people on social welfare are better off than those who earn their money through employment. According to the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) people on the dole would see their income jump by up to 50% if they got a job.
11 January 2008
Ireland Can Be Leader In Renewable Energy, Says Study
Energy Minister Eamon Ryan has announced the publication of a groundbreaking report on renewable energy and the electricity grid on the island of Ireland. Undertaken by national and international experts, the All-Island Grid Study was commissioned jointly by the Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Northern Ireland).
Ireland Can Be Leader In Renewable Energy, Says Study
Energy Minister Eamon Ryan has announced the publication of a groundbreaking report on renewable energy and the electricity grid on the island of Ireland. Undertaken by national and international experts, the All-Island Grid Study was commissioned jointly by the Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Northern Ireland).
02 March 2010
Uni Grade 'Inflation 100%' Claims Study
The number of first-class honours degrees awarded by Irish universities has increased by over 100% since 1994, according to leaked study. The internal study compiled for the University Council at Trinity College shows the rate of 'grade inflation' over the past 15 years that has sparked reactions of concern from the Opposition political parties.
Uni Grade 'Inflation 100%' Claims Study
The number of first-class honours degrees awarded by Irish universities has increased by over 100% since 1994, according to leaked study. The internal study compiled for the University Council at Trinity College shows the rate of 'grade inflation' over the past 15 years that has sparked reactions of concern from the Opposition political parties.
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Ireland WeatherToday:A misty start with outbreaks of rain then becoming dry through the morning with a little brightness possible. Showery rain then moving into western areas in the afternoon. Feeling rather warm and humid with light winds. Maximum temperature 17 °C.Tonight:Outbreaks of rain in the west will spread east across all parts through the evening. Rain will die out overnight but staying cloudy with some mist or fog. Minimum temperature 10 °C.