Hayes Scandal and Windfall Tax Push | Belfast News

Social Democrats are rocked as TD Eoin Hayes faces fresh scrutiny over old comments about a 40% headcount cut on a now-defunct recruitment site, sparking renewed debate amid his role as social protection spokesperson. Despite claiming the account was inactive years ago and no clients were ever taken, Hayes remains silent to media, echoing last year’s controversy over costume remarks. Party leader Holly Cairns, pregnant with her second child, skips the annual think-in but is expected back in the Dáil soon — as the party gears up for a nationwide election push, citing recent byelection wins. Meanwhile, they’re pushing for a windfall tax on energy profits, aiming to raise €300-350 million to help households drowning in soaring bills — with legislation set to follow in weeks. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://www.thejournal.ie/eoin-hayes-social-democrats-7163129-Sep2026/ More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1d65987a4a93a29c Report issues to [email protected].