Gambling with crypto; deer in Phoenix Park; and what scientists learn from the eclipse

The Irish government is preparing a crackdown on money laundering, which will include stricter regulations on the use of cryptocurrency within gambling platforms. This initiative aims to close loopholes that facilitate illicit financial activities.

Meanwhile, a significant challenge looms over the provision of mental health support for schoolchildren. The planned national rollout of one-to-one counseling services is reportedly under threat due to a shortage of qualified mental health professionals available to deliver the program.

In scientific and environmental news, the Irish Times' science and climate correspondent, Caroline O’Doherty, is exploring the ecological impact of the fallow deer herd in Phoenix Park. Additionally, insights are being gathered from data collected during a recent solar eclipse, as scientists seek to understand the phenomena observed during the celestial event.

These diverse topics, financial regulation, mental health services, wildlife ecology, and astronomical observation, highlight a range of current issues and research areas being addressed in Ireland.