Through the European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO), the EU supports a European network of fact-checkers, including TheJournal in Ireland. For a monthly roundup of European fact-checks, visit the main EDMO website. Here, we highlight recent fact-checks by TheJournal FactCheck team.
Debunked: Cows contribute significantly towards climate change, despite claims in viral video
Published: 18 August – by Shane Raymond
A viral video claims that methane from cows has no net effect on global warming because methane breaks down after about 12 years and is part of the natural carbon cycle. While the video correctly explains some aspects of how cattle cycle carbon, experts say its conclusion is wrong: a stable herd can maintain a higher level of methane in the atmosphere, which continues to trap heat. Methane is around 28 times more potent than CO2 over 100 years and accounts for more than a third of Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions, with ruminant agriculture the main source.
Debunked: Dublin Bus hired from overseas due to a driver shortage, not DEI programmes
Published: 20 August – by Shane Raymond
The allegation that Dublin Bus hired nearly 100 African drivers because of DEI policies is false. The drivers were recruited from South Africa to address staff shortages and expanding services. Dublin Bus said they were qualified professionals who underwent the same assessments and training as other drivers, while the European Commission has warned of a severe shortage of bus drivers across the EU.
Debunked: Weeks-old videos falsely said to show ‘second wave’ of migrants entering Ceuta
Published: 21 August – by Shane Raymond
Videos shared online as evidence of a new mass migration into Ceuta were actually recorded during the July crisis. While smaller groups have since attempted to cross from Morocco, they were stopped before reaching the Spanish enclave. The footage was misleadingly reshared by prominent right-wing figures, gaining millions of views on social media.