big rabbit fortune

big rabbit fortune

A collection of progressive pressure groups have called on the UK Labour government to ‘think differently’ when it comes to childcare. This is based on new analysis that reveals the English local authorities with lowest numbers of childcare places. The survey shows Walsall ranked worst. The associated report extrapolates the data and predicts that at current rate of decline, there will be no childminders left by 2033. The report comes from the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) – an independent charity working towards a fairer, greener, and more prosperous society and Save the Children, which is active in one hundred countries. Concluding the report The childcare challenge: How can the new government deliver a real early education and childcare guarantee? , the campaign organisations state that the UK government must ensure deprived and rural areas are not left behind in forthcoming childcare expansion. In other words, public policy needs to focused on equalising the disparity throughout the UK. The report indicates that the expansion of free childcare currently underway is at risk of not delivering for poorer families. Amongst the poorest fifth of parents with young children, only a third (36 per cent) use formal childcare, compared to double that (73 percent) of the highest earning households. The analysis indicates how the use of formal childcare is highly defined by social class . Over two-thirds of parents of young children who work in professional jobs such as lawyers, doctors and architects use it, compared to less than half of parents in elementary occupations such as cleaners, care workers and hairdressers. Further analysis by the think tank of local access to private and voluntary nurseries as well as childminders – who deliver nearly all provision for children under three years of age – finds significant variation in access to childcare within a reasonable travel time by local authority, with deprived and rural areas the worst off. The more deprived or more rural a local area is, the fewer and lower-quality childcare options families tend to have. The most deprived areas have 32 percent fewer places per child and 25 per cent fewer good places compared to the most affluent areas. Rural areas have 31 percent fewer places and 29 per cent fewer good places compared to inner cities and town centres. For example, three in four children in Walsall live in areas that have some of the worst access to childcare in England. There are significant regional and local variations. For example, parts of the North-East have five times the average ratio of childcare places to children. However, other parts of the same Combined Authority are amongst the least well served in the country. Part of this problem is driven by the falling numbers of childminders. At the current rate – a drop of around 3,000 childminders per year. Another issue is the lack of places in school-based nurseries. Whilst the number of schools offering nursery provision has grown since 2018, the headcount of children in primary school nurseries has reduced by 14 percent (the equivalent of 42,000 children) between 2015/16 and 2023/24. To remediate the situation, the report urgest the Starmer government to adopt progressive and leftwing policies, such as: • Establishing new not-for-profit nursery trusts to rival private equity backed for-profit chains, with the aim of helping smaller childcare providers with business support, best practice and achieve the same economies of scale as larger groups. • Reinvigorating the role of local authorities including by pooling funding to secure new childcare in the areas of greatest need and more actively brokering the new schools-based nursery expansion. • Growing and supporting the supply of childminders by developing a new long-term national strategy which sees them paid monthly to deliver funded entitlements and explores a new childminder friendly national digital platform. • Increasing funding for deprived areas and children through raising the Early Years Pupil Premium and increasing weighting for Additional Need in the national formula. • Reforming the funding system , giving greater recognition to emerging needs in early years within mainstream funding. These proposals attempt to deal with childcare deserts, a lack of funding and the patchwork of commissioning services. Dr. Tim Sandle is Digital Journal's Editor-at-Large for science news.Tim specializes in science, technology, environmental, business, and health journalism. He is additionally a practising microbiologist; and an author. He is also interested in history, politics and current affairs.Top footie clubs, players and agents cough up £800million after HMRC blitz

“A new phase” Erdogan comments on the military escalation in Syria

MCNEESE 76, ILLINOIS STATE 68Beyoncé is spreading holiday cheer in true Queen Bey fashion, getting fans hyped for her upcoming Christmas Day halftime performance. The Grammy-winning icon shared a teaser on Instagram on Wednesday, offering a sneak peek at her much-anticipated show during the NFL game between the Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans at NRG Stadium in her hometown of Houston. In the short but captivating clip, Beyoncé struts confidently through a snowy backdrop, placing a football-shaped ornament on a glowing, decorated cactus. Clad in an all-white ensemble complete with blonde braids and a fluffy cowboy hat, she poses as the cactus lights up. The caption read, "A Cowboy Carter Christmas. Houston, Texas 12.25," igniting excitement among her Beyhive fans. The halftime show, set to air live on Netflix, marks a monumental moment as Beyoncé will perform songs from her latest album, "Cowboy Carter," for the first time. Fans have been talking about the album's announcement in a surprise Super Bowl commercial earlier this year. The debut singles, "16 Carriages" and "Texas Hold' Em," became instant hits, dominating streaming platforms and fueling anticipation for a live performance. How Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” continues to be a holiday favorite Hailey Bieber is ready for Christmas in red velvet miniskirt and pointed-toe heels Khloé Kardashian reveals extravagant Christmas Eve celebration is canceled This Christmas Day gig isn't just any performance—it's a homecoming celebration for Beyoncé , who continues to spotlight her Texas roots. Her blend of cowboy-inspired aesthetics and powerhouse vocals promises a memorable experience for both football fans and music lovers. With the show's buzz surrounding it, game day ticket sales have soared, making the Baltimore-Houston matchup one of the season's most anticipated events. Beyoncé's Iconic Super Bowl XLVII Halftime Show On February 3, 2013, Beyoncé delivered an electrifying performance at the Super Bowl XLVII halftime show, a moment that not only cemented her status as a global superstar but also thrilled fans with an epic Destiny's Child reunion. Taking over the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Queen Bey lit up the stage with a show still regarded as one of the best halftime performances. Dressed in a sleek black leather bodysuit, Beyoncé brought the stadium down with her signature powerhouse vocals, precise choreography, and commanding stage presence. Midway through the performance, Beyoncé surprised fans with a surprise they'll never forget—Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams were suddenly elevated onto the stage to join her. The trio performed a medley of Destiny's Child hits, including "Bootylicious" and "Independent Women Part I," before seamlessly joining Beyoncé for "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)." The reunion was brief but impactful, showcasing the unbreakable bond between the group members and their enduring influence in pop music. On February 7, 2016, she returned to the Super Bowl stage alongside Chris Martin of Coldplay and B runo Mars.Notre Dame welcomes back public for mass after five-year refit

Apple Cash: How to use it to send and receive money

Jessica Kartalija, who left Channel 3 abruptly in September, has landed at Channel 6. A 6abc spokesperson said Kartalija is working at the station as a part-time reporter. At Channel 3, she was co-anchor to Ukee Washington for 6 and 11 p.m. newscasts. Kartalija’s move to Channel 6 is interesting because while personnel at most of the station’s competitors play musical chairs, “Action News” rarely takes on someone who has been on a different outlet’s air. While I can cite several notable defections from Channel 6 to other pastures — Larry Kane, Marc Howard, Dave Frankel, Steve Levy, Mike Strug — I can only think of one previous time 6abc hired someone who’d worked for a rival. That was Jillian Mele, who had been at Channel 10 and on NBC Sports Philadelphia’s “Breakfast on Broad.” Mele came and went from Channel 6 within a year. When leaving Channel 3, Kartalija said in a Facebook message that she didn’t know what was next for her but that she intended to stay in the Philadelphia area. Channel 6, with its 46-consecutive years of highest market ratings and congenial format, is a great spot for anyone in television news to find a berth. It will be interesting to see how Kartalija progresses at her new station. Meanwhile, the last person who left Channel 6 with some splash, sportscaster Jamie Apody, has surfaced periodically on Channel 29 and did well appearing recently with Fox Philly regulars Breland Moore and Jason Martinez on a “Phantastic Sports Shows” that preceded an important Eagles game (and win!). Mike Schmidt documentary Mike Schmidt, who people, and at least one Broadway play, have argued is the best third baseman in the history of baseball is the subject of a documentary, fittingly called, as Harry Kalas would say, “Michael Jack Schmidt,” and streaming at 8 p.m. Thursday on the MLB Network. The program marks the first time MLB has profiled a Phillie, or any Philadelphia athlete. Schmidt, who retired in the middle of the 1989 season, interviewed and no doubt speaks openly about his careers, which included three Most Valuable Player citations in 1980, 1981 and 1986. Subjects discussed included the love, tension, and conflict he felt towards Phillies fans. Two of Schmidt’s luminous contemporaries, catcher Johnny Bench from the Cincinnati Reds and fellow third baseman — and 1980 MVP recipient from the American League — George Brett from the Kansas City Royals, will talk about playing against Schmidt and his demeanor on the field. Like Schmidt, both Bench and Brett have been admitted to Major League Baseball’s Hall of Fame. Three Sixers veterans, Julius Erving, Charles Barkley, and Doug Collins will speak about what it’s like to be a professional athlete in Philadelphia. John Middleton, Phillies chief partner and CEO, is interviewed along with former Phils and Schmidt teammates Larry Bowa, Larry Andersen, John Kruk, Garry Maddox and Von Hayes. Schmidt’s wife of more than 50 years, Donna, and longtime baseball analyst Jayson Stark are also seen in the documentary. ‘Jackal’ getting renewed Good news on several fronts. Peacock has announced a second season for its currently unfolding hit, “The Day of the Jackal.” The best new series of the season, “Jackal” stars Eddie Redmayne as cold-bloodedly professional assassin who nonetheless wins audience support, even after the sad killing of someone who helped him in one of his more complicated assignments. It prominently features Lashana Lynch as an equally ruthless MI-6 agent in what turns out to be frustrated pursuit of the Jackal. Knowing there’s to be a second season answers one question. The Jackal survives his current skein of assassinations, unlike the outcomes in the 1971 novel by Frederick Forsyth or the 1973 movie with Edward Fox, on a mission to kill Charles DeGaulle. There is also a 1997 movie starring Bruce Willis, but that veers markedly from the tone and story of Forsyth’s thriller. “Thriller” is the perfect way to denote the Peacock series with the excellent Redmayne, who can chill and charm as needed. “Jackal” is episodic, so it keeps fans on tenterhooks awaiting each Thursday when a new hourlong program is released. The final episode of Season 1, which goes into much more than the Jackal’s murderous ways or his adversaries’ unlikeable tactics in trying to foil him, airs this week. Lynch’s agent can seem more disregarding and willing to use or expend people than the Jackal. Can’t wait. For either the ending or Season 2. ‘Before’ looking good, too Another episodic show that keeps me returning to see all of its intricacies is “Before,” on Apple TV, which is steadily becoming a outlet to keep constant track of. “Before” has so many twists and turns, it keeps you active in wondering how everything ties together. Threads include a boy, age 8 (Jacobi Jupe) who keeps hovering around the Brooklyn home of a renowned but mostly retired child psychologist (Billy Crystal) who has secrets and mysteries on his own. One involves the death of his wife (Judith Light) by alleged suicide but possible murder just before the boy begins to be seen or leave traces of himself. The psychologist is so talented, he is drawn back to practice by social workers and court officials who believe he alone can help specific children. It is in this context that he agrees to tackle a new case, one that turns out to be — you guessed it! — the troubled boy who keeps seeking his attention. The psychologist has become familiar with the boy, a frequently placed and frequently returned foster child, now in the care of a woman (Rosie Perez) who lives a few blocks from him, albeit in an apartment, in Brooklyn. The plot becomes complex when the child seems to know the psychologist and, on some level, fear him. Meanwhile, the doctor is sincere in wanting to quell the boy’s debilitating anxiety. The weekly release of each part of “Before” adds to its suspense. So many threads are dangled, so much engages your attention and starts you guessing, you look forward to Fridays and each new set of information and clues. For Crystal, an executive producer of “Before,” the psychologist’s role is a change of pace. While Crystal’s doctor gets to reel off some of the caustic bon mots for which the comedian is known, his part is serious, and he approaches it so. In fact — and this may only be me — I know I’m watching Billy Crystal, a performer I’ve enjoyed since his days as Jody on “Soap,” but I have the impression I’m seeing Dustin Hoffman. That’s a compliment. Crystal brings so much nuance and texture to the psychologist, especially when the doctor is trying to solve some conundrum in the boy’s care or is confronted with something difficult about his alleged past or relationship with his late wife, he mirrors the depth and intensity of Hoffman. Jacobi Jupe also has remarkable range for a child actor, good as that breed is these days. He makes you share his fears and apprehensions and believe there is truth behind what at first sounds like strange pronouncements or an unexpected explanation, as when he is showing the psychologist a picture he’s painted and pointing out who different figures are. Writer Sarah Thorp keeps you coming back to each episode and some key information has yet to be revealed. For instance, it would be odd for a performer of the caliber of Judith Light to accept a role that is so unfulfilled eight episodes into a 10-part series. I, for one, am waiting for the sequence in which we learn more about Light’s character and see a proven actress doing work that might daunt others. Rosie Perez is touching as the foster parent who wants a child and is keen to have Jupe’s troubled child in her life. There is also fine work by Sakina Jaffrey and Ava Lalezarzadeh. Naked appeal Six stars, five from show business, one from football, strip to bring attention to charities involved in men’s health on a two-hour special, “The Full Monty,” airing at 8 p.m. Monday on Fox (Channel 29). Lighting will mask the final moment when “black-ish’s” Anthony Anderson, James Van Der Beek, Taye Diggs, “Dancing with the Stars’ ” Bruno Tonioli, Tyler Posey, and Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones bare all in an effort to create awareness and boost gifts to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, and the Testicular Cancer Society. In addition to their strip, you’ll see footage of the men working with choreographer Mandy Moore. Van Der Beek, for one, talks about his experience with cancer. Among his and his castmates’ goals is to encourage men to be tested for illnesses that are better controlled the earlier they are found. Nick Kayal shoutout Nick Kayal, who helms the 6 to 10 a.m. weekday show on WPHT (1210 AM), impressed by having a piece he wrote about Pennsylvania politics picked up by one of my favorite news sources, Real Clear Politics (RCP). I depend on RCP and other online news outlets, such as The Free Press and Substack, to offer a panoply of stories from several publications and broadcast organizations, even X, to keep me informed about what folks on both sides of an issue. While the sites I mentioned lean toward the conservative, as do I, a down-the-line libertarian, they carry articles offering opposing and alternative points of view. They allow me to compare issues from varying angles and determine where I stand, rather than offering the outright propaganda and skewed ideology that mar most newspapers and render television news — networks, cable, or streamers — frequently unwatchable. Kayal’s sidekicks on ‘PHT are Greg Stocker and Dawn Stensland, who takes the mic from 10 a.m. to noon with her own show. Others on 1210 are my estimable friend, Dom Giordano (noon to 3 p.m.), with whom I hope to be heard again now that some of the politics has cooled down, and Rich Zeoli (3 to 7 p.m.). Cable news ratings The recent election inflated some cable news stations’ ratings. Since the Nov. 5 voting, which declared Donald Trump the winner over Kamala Harris, both CNN and MSNBC have seen diminished ratings. On some days, they look like half of what they were when Trump and Harris were vying for the presidency. ‘Good Neighbor’ award Alas, there was no Philadelphia finalist in 2024 for Kelly Clarkson’s “Good Neighbor of the Year Award,” but while listening to the stories of this year’s group of nominees, the second in which Clarkson and staff did an extensive national search to nominate local charities doing extraordinary work, I thought back to the amazing young local man I saw during Clarkson’s 2023 “Good Neighbor” cycle. Tyrique Glasgow confronted what seemed like the overwhelming adversity of his past to positively renew his life by founding the Young Chances Foundation that does a wealth of important work in his South Philadelphia community. Nominated last year by Channel 10’s Frances Wang, Glasgow used earnings and donations triggered by “The Kelly Clarkson Show” (3 p.m. weekdays on Channel 10) to obtain a 25-passenger van to transport seniors and others in his community, only one among several services Young Chances provides. Tyrique was so impressive, I recalled him as this year’s candidates were speaking. The winner and recipient of a $100,000 prize last year was A Place at the Table from Raleigh, N.C. This year’s finalists hale from Phoenix, D.C., Dallas, Atlanta, Kansas City, Cleveland and Seattle.

These Could Be 3 of the Best Stocks to Own in 2025 - Yahoo Finance

During the Callaway Future Champions Golf Hawaii World Series Championship tournament, St. John’s School’s Aki Matsuno finished tied for second place. In the two-round tournament, which was held Nov. 23-24 and played at the Kapolei Golf Club in Kapolei, Hawaii, Matsuno shot an opening round 79 but, in the second round, followed the above-par performance with a tournament-best 69. “We are pleased to announce that (Guam National Golf Federation) national team player Aki Matsuno has secured second place at the recently concluded FCG Hawaii World Series Championship,” the federation said in a press release. “Aki’s second-place finish earned him an invitation to compete in the upcoming FCG Junior Golf Championship to be held in July 2025.”

‘Extremely Violent Misogyny’ – Post-Election, Young Women Face Attacks Online, on Campus

Surgical Scrub Market Strategic Forecast through 2031 BD, Ecolab, STERIS Life Sciences, 3M 12-05-2024 09:07 PM CET | Health & Medicine Press release from: STATS N DATA Surgical Scrub Market [New York, December 2024] Surgical scrubs play a pivotal role in the healthcare industry, serving as specialized uniforms designed for use in surgical environments. Characterized by their ability to minimize the risk of infection, surgical scrubs are essential for maintaining hygiene and safety among medical staff during operations. The relevance of surgical scrubs extends beyond personal protection; they contribute to overall patient safety and enhance the efficiency of surgical procedures. As healthcare facilities increasingly prioritize safety measures, the demand for high-quality, reliable surgical scrubs is on the rise, creating significant opportunities for industry players and investors keen on tapping into this vital market. You can access a sample PDF report here: https://www.statsndata.org/download-sample.php?id=13539 The surgical scrub market is poised for substantial growth in the foreseeable future, driven by an increasing emphasis on infection control and safety protocols in hospitals and other healthcare settings. As awareness around surgical hygiene heightens, both established companies and new entrants stand to benefit from this evolving landscape. For those already entrenched in the field, the opportunity to expand product lines and enhance brand loyalty is ripe. New players can carve out a niche by focusing on innovative materials and designs that meet the specific demands of modern healthcare environments. With investment in research and development, companies can capture emerging trends and cater to a more discerning clientele, bolstering their market presence while capitalizing on favorable economic conditions.Reflecting on the past, the surgical scrub market has undergone a remarkable transformation, adapting in response to changing regulatory standards and advancements in material science. Current trends showcase a shift towards sustainable and technologically advanced scrubs, promoting both environmental and operational efficiency. However, challenges such as fluctuating raw material costs and regulatory compliance present hurdles that must be addressed. Major players in the market have successfully navigated these obstacles, using innovative practices and a strong commitment to quality to bolster their market positions. As the demand for surgical scrubs continues to elevate, prospective investors should consider the long-term benefits of entering this thriving market. With the right strategies and a focus on innovation, there exists a tremendous opportunity for both current players and newcomers alike to thrive in the surgical scrub industry.In an ever-changing business world, staying informed of market trends is vital for maintaining a competitive edge. STATS N DATA's Global Surgical Scrub Market Report offers an essential look at the current market dynamics and future potential. Covering 2024 to 2031, this report delivers expert analysis and forecasts that empower businesses and investors to make smart, data-backed decisions to strengthen their market positions. As a valuable resource, this report presents a clear view of today's market conditions and the major factors that will drive future growth. With insights from top industry experts, it helps companies plan around upcoming trends and sharpen their competitive edge. The Global Surgical Scrub Market has shown steady growth, driven by technological advances and rising demand across industries. STATS N DATA's report investigates this growth and delves into the factors that are powering it forward. Key Drivers and Challenges The report pinpoints essential growth drivers like new technology and changing consumer demands while also identifying challenges, such as regulatory changes and economic pressures. This dual perspective supports businesses in developing strategies that maximize opportunities and effectively address potential risks, securing long-term success. Comprehensive Market Segmentation To provide clear insights, the Global Surgical Scrub Market is segmented into key categories: Market Segmentation: By Type • To Remove Microorganisms • To Remove Resident Microbial • Others Market Segmentation: By Application • Waterless • Water-based • Others Get 30% Discount On Full Report: https://www.statsndata.org/ask-for-discount.php?id=13539 Each segment is analyzed to highlight market size, growth potential, and trends. This segmentation helps companies identify high-growth areas and efficiently allocate resources. An attractiveness analysis also evaluates each segment's potential, considering competition and opportunities in the market. Regional Analysis and Global Perspective The report offers a full regional analysis of the Global Surgical Scrub Market, covering North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. This breakdown is ideal for businesses looking to expand or adapt their strategies to fit specific regions, with high-growth regions spotlighted for new opportunities and specific market needs. Competitive Landscape and Technology Trends As the Surgical Scrub Market grows, competition strengthens. This report profiles the leading players, analyzing their strategies, including mergers, acquisitions, and product innovations. Key players include: • 3M • STERIS Life Sciences • BD • Ecolab The report also discusses technological advancements transforming the market, showing companies how they can harness innovation to stay competitive. Regulatory and Economic Insights The Surgical Scrub Market is shaped by regulatory guidelines, and this report offers a detailed review of key regulations affecting the industry. It also explores economic factors like GDP growth, inflation, and employment trends, providing context for companies to develop strategies that respond to regulatory and economic changes. In summary, STATS N DATA's Global Surgical Scrub Market Report delivers critical insights on market trends, competitive dynamics, and growth opportunities. Equipped with this information, companies and investors can make informed decisions to achieve success in a dynamic and competitive market. For customization requests, please visit: https://www.statsndata.org/request-customization.php?id=13539 John Jones Sales & Marketing Head | Stats N Data Phone: +1 (315) 642-4324 Email: sales@statsndata.org Website: www.statsndata.org STATS N DATA is a trusted provider of industry intelligence and market research, delivering actionable insights to businesses across diverse sectors. We specialize in helping organizations navigate complex markets with advanced analytics, detailed market segmentation, and strategic guidance. Our expertise spans industries including technology, healthcare, telecommunications, energy, food & beverages, and more. Committed to accuracy and innovation, we provide tailored reports that empower clients to make informed decisions, identify emerging opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. Our team of skilled analysts leverages cutting-edge methodologies to ensure every report addresses the unique challenges of our clients. At STATS N DATA, we transform data into knowledge and insights into success. Partner with us to gain a competitive edge in today's fast-paced business environment. For more information, visit https://www.statsndata.org or contact us today at sales@statsndata.org This release was published on openPR.

Weber St. 68, Pepperdine 53

TARLETON STATE 61, HOFSTRA 59

NoneQuebec Premier Legault posted a photo on social media of himself shaking hands with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump during his visit to the French capital for the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. HO/The Canadian Press Quebec Premier François Legault says he met U.S. president-elect Donald Trump in Paris and they discussed border control and a proposed tariff on Canadian goods. Legault posted a photo on social media of himself shaking hands with Trump during his visit to the French capital for the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. Trump has promised to impose a punishing 25 per cent tariff on Canada if it doesn’t improve security at the border and stop the flow of migrants and illegal drugs. The meeting came as a number of world leaders were in Paris to celebrate the restoration of the historic cathedral widely considered to be a pinnacle of French architectural heritage. Legault also crossed paths with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as well as billionaire Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has been named to lead a government efficiency department in the next Trump administration. The premier says he expressed Quebec’s support for Ukraine to Zelensky, and discussed electric vehicles and international trade with Musk.

Starmer says ‘bulging benefits bill’ is ‘blighting our society’Irish premier Simon Harris has said Fine Gael will gain seats in the General Election despite a further fragmentation of Irish politics. Fine Gael won 35 seats in the 2020 election, but 18 of those TDs did not seek re-election in Friday’s poll. An exit poll puts the party’s support at 21%, a fraction of a percentage behind the main opposition party Sinn Fein. Mr Harris, the outgoing Taoiseach, was elected with 16,869 first preference votes, well above the quota. He celebrated with his wife Caoimhe, his parents Bart and Mary, his sister Gemma and his political team at the count centre in Greystones, Co Wicklow. Ahead of his re-election, Mr Harris told reporters he was “cautiously optimistic” about the election result and said it was “clear that my party will gain seats”. “It’s also clear that Fine Gael will top the poll in at least 10 constituencies, many more than we did the last time, that we will gain seats in constituencies where we haven’t had seats in many years, like Tipperary South and Waterford, and that we will add second seats in other constituencies as well,” he said. “I think the people of Ireland have now spoken. We now have to work out exactly what they have said, and that is going to take a little bit of time.” In one of the five consecutive broadcast media rounds he did from the Greystones count centre, he said there were a lot of areas where there were “straight shoot-outs” between Fianna Fail and Fine Gael for final seats. He described the Sinn Fein vote as “pretty significantly down”, the Fianna Fail vote as “marginally down” and the Fine Gael vote as “static” compared with its 2020 vote. He said it was “a very close, a very competitive election” and that “we haven’t seen a Sinn Fein surge or anything like it”. He said: “It was predicted by many that I would become the Taoiseach for a brief period of time, take over from Leo Varadkar, and then have to rebuild my party from the opposition benches as Sinn Fein led a government. “We don’t know what’s going to happen on government formation yet, but that is now looking less likely than it was.” He acknowledged that it was “a very difficult day” for the Green Party and paid tribute to their work in the coalition government, alongside his party and Fianna Fail. “Definitely, politics in Ireland has gotten much more fragmented,” he said. Fine Gael minister Helen McEntee said that her party’s campaign had been “positive”. “The feeling on the doors was very much that people were relatively happy with the government,” she said on RTE Radio. “It will come down to the last seats and it will come down to transfers,” she said of the final result, adding that Fianna Fail and Fine Gael were performing better than the exit poll estimated.U.S. Commits to Supporting Syrian Transition After Assad's Fall