Saturday, January 23, 2010

Concern For Missing Orphans In Haiti

The UN admits it's growing increasingly concerned over the number of orphans going missing in Haiti.

The official death toll from the devastating earthquake has risen to 110,000 and continues to rise.

It's thought the country had 380,000 children without parents, before last week's earthquake.

But many have disappeared from make-shift camps.

Appeal For Witnesses To Limerick Shooting

Gardai are appealing for witnesses to a gangland style shooting in Limerick city last night.

A 25 year old man is being treated in hospital after being shot in the head.

The incident happened at around half past ten near Thomand Park, following Munster's Heineken Cup match with Northampton.

The injured man is said to be in a stable condition at the Mid-Western Regional Hospital.

Sinn Fein and DUP Meet For Talks In Dublin

Sinn Fein's Ard Comhairle is meeting in Dublin to discuss the way forward amid stalemate on devolution talks with the DUP.

Last night the party confirmed that negotiations on the devolution of policing and justice had stalled.

The North's Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness will brief the Ard Comhairle at the meeting today.

The Party's vice-president Mary Lou McDonald says that they would continue talks with the DUP - but only with the goal of reaching an agreement.

Two Men Qustioned Over Post Office Raid In Dublin

Two men are being questioned by Gardai following a post office raid in Dublin.

Shortly before five o'clock yesterday evening the men entered the building in the Firhouse Shopping Centre.

They took a quantity of cash and escaped in the Tallaght direction.

Gardai stopped the car a short time later and arrested the two men.

A knife and a sum of money were also recovered.

Investigation Into Rathdrum Bank Robbery Continues

An investigation is coninuing into an armed robbery at the Bank of Ireland in Rathdrum in Wicklow.

Three men wearing boilersuits and dust masks entered the bank at around quarter past 11 yesterday morning.

One man was carrying a sledgehammer and another a rifle.

The men threatened staff and stole a sum of money before making their getaway.

Gardai are appealing to any one who was in the area of the Bank of Ireland in Rathdrum on the morning of the 22nd.

They are also asking anybody who may have seen the jeep 95 WW 1116 a blue Pajero anywhere between the 19th and 22nd January to contact the Wicklow Garda station.

Friday, January 22, 2010

Clooeagues Defend Minister Cullen's Rape Comments

Government colleagues are rallying around the Arts Minister who's sparked controversy by saying media intrusion into his life was like "being raped".

Martin Cullen told a defamation conference yesterday that the media's false allegations of an extra marital affair has caused his children to be bullied and assaulted.

The Taoiseach says Minister Cullen made the comments because that's how he feels, saying such issues would form changes to planned privacy legislation.

Eamonn Lillis Admits Part In Wife's Injuries

Eamon Lillis has told the Central Criminal Court he accepts he was a major participant in causing the injuries his wife received at their home on Windgate Road, Howth, Dublin.

The 52 year old said that after the row between them in December 2008 Celine Cawley was angry and told him to go away.

He said he told lies to Gardai the day she died because he was irrational and in a complete state of fear.

Mr Lillis also said he was taking valium and sleeping pills in the days after her death.

The father of one denies the murder of his wife.

Former Taoiseach Willing To Give Evidence At Banking Inquiry

Bertie Ahern says he has nothing to fear from the impending inquiry into the banking crisis.

Its likely the former Taoiseach will be called before the investigation, but he says he's a "task master" at giving evidence at public inquiries.

He's also said he wouldn't be interested in becoming Dublin's first directly elected Lord Mayor - unless the job has full executive powers, including the power to raise taxes.

Bertie Ahern is one of a number of high profile names being floated as possible candidates for the job, elections for which will be held in the summer.

US Criticises China's 'Cyberattacks' On Google

US President Barack Obama says he's "troubled" by China's cyberattacks on Google and wants Beijing to provide "answers" to charges of security breaches.

The comment came a day after Secretary of State Hillary Clinton urged China to conduct a thorough probe into cyberattacks on Google and other US companies.

Mrs Clinton criticised Beijing's efforts to restrict what China's 384 million web-users can see.

25 Tonnes Of Irish Aid On Way To Haiti

A consignment of humanitarian aid is on its way to Haiti from Ireland.

The 25 tonnes of food and medical supplies - worth 200,000 euro - will arrive in the Dominican Republic tonight - before being transported over land.

A group of Goal volunteers are also travelling on the Aer Lingus flight - to help in the relief efforts following last week's devastating earthquake.

Taoiseach Defends Property Tax Break

The Taoiseach's defending a special property tax break that has cost 800 million euro.

The Government got rid of the tax break last year after introducing it in 2000.

Speaking in County Tipperary today, Brian Cowen says the tax break was right at the time.

Budget Travel Name To Be Sold

The Liquidator of Budget Travel has announced that it's agreed to sell the trade name of Budget Travel to Club Travel Limited.

The sale - the price of which is not being disclosed - is subject to approval by the Competition Authority.

Managing Director of Club Travel Liam Lonergan said he was delighted to continue to offer the Budget brand.

Gardai Appeal For Witnesses To Wicklow Bank Raid

Gardai are appealing for witnesses to a bank raid in Wicklow this morning to come forward.

An armed gang carrying a lump hammer and a firearm entered the Bank of Ireland in Rathdrum at around a quarter past eleven.

The men threatened members of staff before escaping with an undisclosed sum of money.

The raiders were described as wearing white boiler suits and fled the scene in a black Mitsubishi Jeep with 96 WW registered plates.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Gardai in Wicklow.

British Brothers Given Indeterminate Sentences For Assault

In Britain two young brothers who carried out an horrific assault on two other young boys have been given indeterminate sentences with a minimum period of five years.

The now 11 and 12-years-old, used lit cigarettes, bricks, branches, barbed wire and broken glass in the 90 minute attack which left one victim close to death.

In sentencing, the judge described their behaviour as "appalling and terrible."

Eamonn Lillis Takes To The Stand In Murder Trial

Eamon Lillis has taken the stand to give evidence in his murder trial at the Central Criminal Court.

52 year old Mr Lillis denies the murder of his wife Celine Cawley at their home at Windgate Road in Howth in Dublin on December 15th, 2008.

The first witness called by his defence team earlier this morning was a press photographer - he was questioned about a picture he took of the scene in Howth a month after Ms Cawley's death.

Tape Of Ministers Shocking 'Rape' Remarks Emerges

Audio has emerged of Minister Martin Cullen's controversial likening of media intrusion to "being raped".

Addressing a seminar of Defamation law yesterday, the Arts, Sport and Tourism Minister told how his children had to move schools several times because of bullying after false allegations were made about an affair between him and Public Relations expert Monica Leech.

The minister’s astonished the gathering when he said the media intrusion caused him to wake up every morning feeling like he'd been "raped".

Two Youn Boys Due To Be Sentenced For Assaulting Two Kids

In Britain, Two boys who tortured two young children are due to be sentenced later.

Sheffield Crown Court heard yesterday the accused – who were only aged 10 and 11 at the time of their attacks - have a "toxic home life" and previous convictions.

Two boys were brutally assaulted and burned with cigarettes in Edlington near Doncaster last April.

Talks Get Underway To Reach Agreement In Air Traffic Controllers Dispute

Talks aimed at preventing a repeat of Wednesday's air traffic control strike action get underway at the Labour Court this morning.

The Aviation Authority and the Impact trade union are in dispute over the introduction of new technology and the payment of a six per cent pay rise.

Fourteen controllers were suspended this week for failing to co-operate with new technology projects.

Defence Prepares To Present Case In Lillis Murder Trial

The prosecution's case in the Eamon Lillis murder trial is drawing to a close.

Mr Lillis denies the murder of his wife Celine Cawley at their home at Windgate Road in Howth in Dublin on December 15th, 2008.
The jury of six men and six women heard from just two witnesses during the course of the yesterday's hearing.

Eamon Lillis's teenage daughter gave evidence via video-link and told how her father had said Celine Cawley had slipped, hit her head off a brick and that they had a bit of a scuffle.

The deputy state pathologist Dr Michael Curtis then told the court that Ms Cawley had died from a combination of blood loss, concussion and oxygen deprivation but that she may have survived her injuries had she received immediate medical attention
The prosecution's case is now drawing to a close after which Mr Lillis's lawyers will present their case.

Resttlement Project For Homeless Underway In Haiti

Around 400-thousand people - made homeless by Haiti's earthquake - are going to be moved to new settlement areas.

Officials are worried about disease across the 200 or more makeshift camps surrounding Port au Prince.

An estimated 2-million people have been left homeless.

New Poll Shows Little Change For Fianna Fail In Popularity Stakes

Fianna Fáil remains in third place behind Labour and Fine Gael in the first opinion poll of 2010, despite recovering some ground.

The Irish Times survey also shows a small rise in support for the Government as a whole and in Brian Cowen's personal satisfaction.

THE IPSOS MRBI poll shows Fine Gael maintain it's support and climb 1 to 32%.
Labour stays in second place, dropping a point to 24%.
Fianna Fáil's on 22 - up 2 from the last comparable poll in September last year.
While The Greens and Sinn Féin lost a point each to 3 and 8% respectively, with others unchanged on 11.

Support for the Government does go up 5% to 19 - but 3 out of four voters still remain unhappy with the job the coalition is doing.

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Wicklow Gardai Arrest Third Man Over Stephen O'Meara Murder

Gardai in Wicklow investigating the murder of Stephen O' Meara have arrested another man.

The 42-year-old was arrested in Gorey, in County Wexford at around half past eleven this morning.

The body of the 26 year old father of three was found in a shallow grave in Wicklow on Christmas Eve.

He had been missing since August last.

The suspect being questioned today is the third person to be arrested in connection with the crime. A 46-year-old was arrested last week and a 24-year-old has already been charged with his murder.

Wicklow Councillors Oppose Closure Of Local Tax Office

Sinn Fein councillor John Brady has welcomed the move by the Bray area councillors of Wicklow County Council who have supported his request to write to the County manager outlining their opposition to any closure of the motor tax office in Bray.

Councillor Brady says nearly 39,000 transactions take place in the Bray office every year and has warned that it’s closure would impact on not only the users of the office, but would have detrimental effects on the local economy.

Councillor Brady says plans to close the motor tax office in Blessington would have a similar impact on the local economy there

Protesters Refuse To Leave Bray Nursing Home

Protesters campaigning to save the Orchard community nursing home in Bray, say they won’t leave the premises until the Health Service Executive reverses it’s decision to close and demolish the Facility.

In 2008 The H.S.E. announced that it was to close the Home because of, what it said, was concern over safety issues.

The Nursing Home closed at short notice in May 2009.

However former staff member, Andrew Brown told East Coast FM’s Laura Wood that he believes the claims about safety were just a smokescreen.

Deputy State Pathologist Gives Evidence In Howth Murder Trial

The deputy state pathologist has told the Central Criminal Court that Celine Cawley's head was blood soaked and her hands were blood stained.

Michael Curtis is giving evidence in the trial of Eamon Lillis who denies murdering his wife Ms Cawley on December 15th, 2008 at their home on Windgate Road,on Howth Head, Dublin.

Dr Curtis has told the court how he found three cuts to Ms Cawley's head and scrapes on her face during an autopsy on her body.

Earlier the court heard from Mr Lillis's teenage daughter who gave evidence via video-link.

Speed Of Aid To Haiti Improving

Improved security and organisation means aid is now getting to people quicker than before in Haiti.

The UN admits the country's disaster zone has created their biggest tactical problems ever.

It's thought around 2-million people are still in need of food, water and medical care.

Victim Of Cork Shooting Was Due In Court

It's emerged that the man shot dead in Cork last night was due to appear before the Circuit Court later this year, charged with alleged drugs offences.

42 year old Ger Stanton was shot dead in front of his partner and her two young children as he got into a car outside his rented home in Wilton.

Superintendent Charles Barry from Togher Garda Station is appealing for help in tracing the getaway vehicle, a 92 C registered Toyota Litace van.

Breakthrough In Air Traffic Controllers Dispute

There's been an apparent breakthrough in the dispute involving air traffic controllers.

The IMPACT trade union had been threatening further action like that witnessed yesterday when a four hour work stoppage grounded flights at Irish airports.

In a statement a short time ago the union says that following interventions by the Irish Congress of Trade Union and IBEC , its agreed to meet the Irish Aviation Authority at the Labour Court tomorrow .

Toy Safety Concerns Raised By Ireland East MEP

The issue of consumer safety is being raised with the European Commission by Ireland East MEP Liam Aylward.

With over 80 million children under 14 in the EU, he is calling for particular attention to be paid to the toy industry.

According to Mr Aylward, parents must be reassured that toys and childcare products will not harm themselves or their children.

European Member States currently have 18 months to implement the Toy Safety Directive adopted in June 2009.

Under this directive certain chemicals used in toy manufacture have been reduced or prohibited.

The Irish MEP claims that it is the duty of the European Commission to ensure that the directive is enforced and consumers are protected.

In a statement on the subject Liam Aylward has also urged the toy industry itself to maintain the highest standards of safety, saying that parents should be able to buy a child's toy with a clear conscience.

500 Patients on Trolleys In Irish Hospitals

Labour says the Government needs to deal with the issue of overcrowding and trolleys in hospitals.

The Opposition says as many as 500 people have been on trolleys in recent days.

It's four years since the Health Minister declared the issue a "national emergency".

But Labour's Health Spokesperson Jan O'Sullivan's told the Dáil the situation is even worse now.

Teen Killed In Road Crash In Tipperary

A 19 year old woman's been killed in a road crash in County Tipperary.

She died when the vehicle she was driving collided with another at Rathmore on the Cahir to Clonmel Road at a quarter to 8 this morning.

A 38 year old man in the second vehicle received minor injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment.

North Wicklow Water Supplies Return To Normal

Water supplies have returned to normal in North County Wicklow.

Areas affected by a temporary stoppage yesterday should have seen supply resume from 11 o’clock last night.

However residents in Wicklow town are being advised that water will again be off each night this week from between the hours of 11 pm and 7 am. morning

Post Mortem Due On Man Found Dead On Bus In Kildare

A post mortem examination will be carried out today on the body of a man found on a bus in Co. Kildare last night.

The man - who was in his forties - boarded the bus at Heuston Station in Dublin at around seven o'clock.

When the bus arrived at the terminus in Maynooth, he was dead.

The fire brigade had to remove the roof of the bus and the man was taken to Naas General Hospital where a post mortem will be carried out today.

The bus will also be technically examined.

Man Due In Court Charged With Double Murder In Dublin

A man is due in court in Dublin today charged with the murder of two men in a gun attack in the south inner city earlier this month.

22-year-old Gary Howard from Dunsoghley Grove in Finglas has been charged with the murders of 46-year-old Brendan Molyneaux and 58-year-old Patrick Mooney.

They were shot dead at Pearse House on Pearse Street on Sunday night - the 10th of January.

Dublin Murder Trial Hears Evidence From Accused's Lover

The trial of Eamon Lillis will continue at the Central Criminal Court today.

The 52-year-old Television producer denies murdering his wife Celine Cawley at their home on Windgate Road in Howth in December 2008.

Yesterday the woman who had an affair with Eamon Lillis - Jean Treacy - gave evidence.
The 32-year-old beauty therapist said she thought she loved him at the time but now realised that it was infatuation.
She also told the court that Mr. Lillis told her that his wife fell unconscious after he pushed her during a row at their home.

42 Year Old Killed In Gangland Style Shooting In Cork

Gardai say the fatal shooting of a man in Cork last night bore all the hallmarks of a gangland killing.
The 42 year old victim has been named locally as Ger Stanton, who was originally from the Knocknaheeney area of Cork city.
He was shot a number of times as he left his home on West Lawn in Wilton shortly after eight o'clock yesterday evening.
A murder investigation has been launched, and Gardai are appealing for anyone with information to contact them.

Two Children Rescued From Rubble In Haiti

Two young children have been pulled alive from the rubble in Haiti overnight, more than a week after the devastating earthquake.
The 8 year-old girl and 11 year-old boy were rescued by firefighters in the capital, Port-au-Prince.
Improved security and organisation mean aid is now getting to people quicker than before.

Union Bosses Meet To Decide Next Move In Air Traffic Controller's Dispute

Air traffic controllers are threatening to repeat the massive disruption which grounded more than 150 flights in and out of Ireland yesterday.

The country's three main airports - Dublin, Cork and Shannon - were shut down for up to four hours causing travel misery for around twenty thousands passengers.

The controllers are in dispute with the Aviation Authority over the introduction of new technology and the payment of a 6 per cent pay rise.

The IMPACT trade union is not ruling out a further stoppage if a group of suspended air traffic controllers are not re-instated.

The union's executive is meeting today to decide its next move

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Irish Humanitarian Aid Arrives in Haiti

The Irish Government's consignment of more than 80 tonnes of emergency humanitarian supplies has arrived in Haiti.

Blankets, plastic sheeting for temporary shelter, water tanks, tents, mattresses and kitchen sets will be given to Concern and Goal for distribution to more than eight thousand families.

Defence Minister Rejects Criticism Over Army Reponse To Cold Spell

The Defence Minister Willie O'Dea has rejected claims that the army should have taken a more leading role in the transport crisis during the cold spell.

Minister O'Dea said soldiers were not "latter-day Don Quixotes" looking for damsels in distress.

He said the onus was on local authorities, and health service managers to request the assistance of the Army if it were needed.

"I mean it's ludicrous to think of the army sort of wandering around the country, without being requested - like sort of latter-day Don Quixotes, seeking out damsels in distress....and deciding to vanquish dragons wherever they happen to meet them" he said.

"I mean this is ludicrous, the army have to be asked" he added.

Nurses At Mater Private Hospital Take Strike Action

Nurses have protested at Dublin's Mater Private Hospital as part of a worsening pay dispute.

The protest was organised by the SIPTU and INMO trade unions ahead of a planned strike from February 1st.

SIPTU claims staff are angry salaries were being hit when the Mater Private continued to make profits.

Member Of Public Saves Horse From Fire Attack

A "good citizen" has been praised for stopping a number of youths from setting fire to an injured horse in Dublin.

The incident happened earlier this afternoon, close to the junction between the M50 and N2.

The DSPCA say the youths covered the fallen horse in hay, which they then tried to set alight.

The Gardai have been called to the scene.

Labour Party Claim It's Illegal For Govenor Of Central Bank To Take Part In Banking Inquiry

Labour's claiming the Central Bank Governor would be acting "illegally" by taking part in the Government's proposed bank inquiry.

The party says 2003 laws will prohibit Patrick Honahan from publicly discussing or disclosing commercially confidential information in relation to any regulated firm or individual.

As part of the Government's plan the Governor is to complete a review of the role of the Central Bank and discuss the issue with an Oireachtas Committee.

Air Traffic Controllers Warn Of Further Disruption

Air Traffic controllers are warning there may be further disruption to flights in the coming days unless there's a speedy resolution to their dispute with the Irish Aviation Authority.

Controllers will walk off the job today for four hours to attend a union meeting to discuss the suspension of 15 staff yesterday in a row over the introduction of new technology.

Their union IMPACT insists the dispute has nothing to do with a claim they have lodged for a 6 per cent pay increase.

Thousands of passengers will be left stranded as a result of the action which will close the country’s three main airports at Dublin, Cork and Shannon today.

IMPACT's Niall Shanahan says they will consider all options at todays meeting.

Haiti Hit By Strong Aftershock

Haiti's suffered another strong aftershock.

A tremor measuring six-point-one struck 36 miles to the west of the capital Port-au-Prince.

Last Tuesday's earthquake - which caused so much destruction - measured seven.

Eamonn Lillis Murder Trial Hears From His Lover

Eamonn Lillis' lover Jean Treacy told his murder trial that he said his wife Celine Cawley died after he "gently pushed her head" during a physical row at their home.

The 32 year old brunette masseuse is describing how she struck up an affair with the accused in the weeks before the mother of one's death.

She said at the time, she believed she was in love with him, but now thinks it was infatuation.

The 52 year old TV ad producer denies killing his wife, who was found unconscious in a pool of blood on decking at their Dublin home on Windgate Road, Howth, on December 15th, 2008.

Repairs Continue On Burst Water Main In Wicklow

Dublin city council staff are continuing their repair Work on a burst mains, which has seen water supplies disrupted in a number of locations in North Wicklow.
The Disruption took effect from 6.00 am this morning and has impacted on areas in Newtownmountkennedy, Newcastle, Kilpeddar, Kilmacanogue, Fassaroe and Delgany, and Bray.

a spokesperson for Bray Town Council told East Coast News this morning that all water supplies will be restored to affected areas in the town by four o’clock this afternoon.

Consumers are being urged to use water sparingly and not to store excessive quantities.

Wicklow Schools Face Highest Charges For Metered Water

It’s being reported that schools in Wicklow will face the highest charges in the country for metered water.
According to an Irish Independent report this week, principles in Wicklow schools face paying twice as much as their counterparts in Kildare.

The top rate of three euro and 4 cent per cubic meter of water in Wicklow compares to one euro 64 cent in Dublin city and one euro 49 cent in Kildare the lowest charge per cubic meter in the country.

Charges in Carlow are set at two euro 30 cent and in Wexford it’s 2 euro 71 cent.

Seat Held By Democrats For 46 Years Goes To Republican

President Obama has been dealt a blow after losing what looked like a safe U.S. Senate seat for the Democrats, to the Republicans.

Democrat Martha Coakley has conceded defeat in Massachusetts to Republican Scott Brown.

It means the Democrats now have less than 60 seats in the Senate - which makes passing his massive healthcare reforms more difficult.

Woman FOund Alive In Rubble, Eight Days After Haiti Earthquake

Eight days after the Haiti earthquake, a woman's been pulled alive from the rubble.
The 25-year-old was found by rescue teams in the wreckage of a shopping centre in Port-au-Prince.

US and UN troops are spreading out across the country distributing food, water and medicines.
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon admits there have been problems - but says the delivery of aid will improve.

Eight Dead As Gunman Goes On The Run In U.S.

Police in the American state of Virginia say a gunman has shot and killed eight people in a rural area.

Officers were called to reports of an injured man on a road on the outskirts of Appomattox and were fired at when they arrived.

More than 100 police have now surrounded the suspect in woodland.

Vote Due On Labour Party Proposals For Public Inquiry Into Banks

The Government is expected to vote down tonight, the Labour party proposal for a public inquiry into the banking crisis.

Instead a Commission of Investigation will conduct a probe behind closed doors.

In advance an independent review of the crisis will take place, while the new Governor of the Central Bank will assess its role as a watchdog.

Water Update - Wed 19th Jan @ 10pm

Water will again be off each night this week in Wicklow Town from 11 pm to 7 am.

Dublin City Council has advised that it has now identified the precise location of the leak on its trunk watermain at Newtownmountkennedy and furthermore has now confirmed its proposal to carry out the necessary urgent repairs on Wednesday, 20th January.

Wicklow County Council and Dublin City Council are working to ensure that disruption to supplies will be minimised. However, it is expected that there will be some disruption from 6.00 am on the 20th Jan 2010, limited only to the following locations:-
  • Newtownmountkennedy
  • Newcastle
  • Kilpeddar
  • Kilmacanogue
  • Fassaroe
  • Delgany
It is anticipated that supply to the remaining areas of Greystones, Kilcoole and Enniskerry, will not be disrupted, as the Council's storage reservoirs have sufficient capacity to supply these areas, provided that consumers co-operate by using water sparingly, as storing excessive amounts of water is counterproductive and will only cause to extend the duration of the difficulties.

Consumers in the Bray area should also check Bray Town Council's website .

Arrangements are being made to provide water tankers in Newtownmountkennedy and Kilmacanogue.


Many Flights Affected In Air Traffic Contorller Dispute

Over 100 flights have been cancelled today due to a protest by air traffic controllers over pay and pensions

Dublin, Cork and Shannon airports will effectively shut down when the IMPACT members attend "mandatory" union meetings between 2 and 6pm.

Irish Bishops Invited To Rome To Discuss Clerical Child Abuse Scandal With Pope Benedict

Pope Benedict has invited the country's bishops to the Vatican to discuss the clerical child abuse scandals next month

The Irish Catholic newspaper reveals today that the pope called the bishops to the meeting because of what's perceived to be a 'very serious situation'in Ireland

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Irish Citizen Confirmed Dead In Haiti

The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed a body pulled from the wreckage of the United Nations building in Haiti is that of Irish/American Andrew Greene.

The father of three, who was raised in Belturbet in Co. Cavan, had been missing since last week's earthquake.

His remains were recovered from the collapsed building last night.

Meanwhile, the UN security council has announced it's sending another 3,500 peacekeeping troops to the striken region.

Earthquake Strikes Cayman Islands

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake has struck the Cayman Islands.

Homes and buildings shook the nation just a day after a similar quake in Guatemala.

There were no immediate reports on damage or casualties.

High Pitched Scream Heard At Time Of Howth Woman's Murder

A neighbour has told the murder trial of Eamonn Lillis that she was woken by a high pitched shriek at half nine on the morning of his wife's death.

The 52 year old denies killing Celine Cawley at their Dublin home on Windgate Road, Howth on December 15th 2008.

The mother of one was found unconscious in a pool of blood at decking at the back of the couple's home.

Most of today was taken up with forensic evidence..scientist dr hilary clarke told the jury she would have expected more contact blood stains on the clothes Eamonn Lillis was wearing if he gave his wife Celine Cawley CPR as she lay unconscious on the decking.

In response the defence recalled Sgt Brian Clune to the stand to remind the court of his testimony that he'd helped the accused while he gave mouth to mouth resuscitation ...

Neighbour ...Pauline Fraser then told the jury how she was woken by 2 high pitched screams at half nine tht morning.and that it definitely sounded if someone was in trouble.

Cuts To Wicklow Water Supply Deferred Until Tomorrow Wednesday

Wicklow county council has issued an update on the water supply notice, on behalf of Dublin city council advising of reduced or no supply of water for a number of areas in Wicklow.

A notice was issued last night, warning of Cuts to water supplies for the North Wicklow area, including Bray, Greystones, Enniskerry, Kilcoole, Kilpedder and Newtownmounkennedy, which would come into effect from 6 o’clock this morning.

However the County council says Dublin City Council workers are attempting to source the precise location of a burst on the pipe and assess the extent of the work involved in repairing the damage. The works will now not get underway until tomorrow.

Jury In Dublin Murder Trial Told Clean-Up Took Place

The jury in the Eamonn Lillis murder trial has been told diluted blood found on items at the house suggest a clean up.

The 52 year old denies killing the mother of one at their Dublin home on Windgate Road, Howth on December 15th 2008.

Forensic scientist dr hilary clarke was asked to analyse numerous items including bloodstained clothes found in a suitcase in the attic of the couple's home.

The jury heard there was a hair attached to a blood marked brick recovered from the patio near where Celine Cawley was found lying undconscious.

Dr Clarke said she would have expected more contact blood stains on the clothes Eamonn Lillis sais he was wearing when he gave his wife CPR on the decking.

She concluded a heavily stained poloshirt found in his bedroom along with a watch was a blood match for Celine Cawley.

Various items were shown to the jury...she also concluded that diluted blood on some of the clothing showed signs of a clean up.

Apponintment Of European Commission Delayed

The new European Commission will not be appointed until February.

The delay is as a result of Bulgarian commission designate Rumiana Jeleva stepping down amid rumours over her financial affairs.

Ms. Jeleva had been proposed as European Commission for humanitarian aid.

The European Parliament was due to vote on the incoming Commission on the 26th of this month but it's now been put back until February.

Bank Of Scotland To Cut Jobs

Royal Bank of Scotland is cutting over 200 jobs.

The bank, which owns Ulster Bank, is hoping that the cuts at its technology services divisions in Dublin and Belfast, can be achieved through voluntary redundancies.

It also says that some of the roles may be transferred to locations in the UK and elsewhere.

Ulster Bank had signalled up to 250 job cuts last August after announcing losses of 585 million euro for the first half of 2009.

Government Prepares Application For EU Financial Aid For Flood Victims

Fianna Fail MEP Liam Aylward says the Government has a proposal ready to apply to Europe for financial aid for the victims of the recent flooding.

The deadline for applications for Solidarity Funding is the 27th of February.

Millions of euro is being made available by the EU for people who are continuing to suffer due to the effects of the adverse weather.

A delegation from the EU may travel to Ireland to witness the devastation first hand.

Man Due In Court Over Tipperary Murder

A man in his twenties is due to appear in court in Tipperary, charged in connection with the death of a man in the village of Lattin.

28 year old Sean Murphy died after being stabbed during a row outside his home on Sunday night.

DNA Database To Be Established In Ireland

The Justice Minister's announced he's establishing the first D-N-A database ever in this country.

Dermot Ahern's published legislation to give effect to the move which will allow Gardai take samples from suspects, sex offenders and prisoners, for use in criminal trials.

It'll also be used in missing persons cases.

Minister Ahern says despite opposition from civil liberties groups, this move is necessary.

Gardai Sent Secret Questionaires As Industrial Action Looms Again

The prospect of industrial action by almost 12,000 rank and file Gardai is looming once more members were sent a secret questionaire aimed at surveying their feelings on recent cutbacks in pay.

The Garda Representative Association had announced at the end of last year its plans to hold a ballot for strike action

However following a warning from the Garda Commissioner and other senior garda management, it backed down.

However Michael O'Boyce of the GRA says they are not ruling strike action in or out

Protest Planned Outside Dail Over Impact Of Cuts On Unemployed

Protestors will gather outside the Dáil today to highlight concerns about how cutbacks are affecting the unemployed.

The Irish National Organisation of the Unemployed say recent cuts to social welfare payments were grossly unfair.

They're demanding that no futher cuts are planned for Brian Lenihan's next budget.

The INOU also want a coherent jobs strategy to be implemented for those who may be facing the prospect of long-term unemployment.

Bank Inquiry Set To Feature Mix Of Public And Private Investigations

The Government's now likely to agree to an inquiry into the banking crisis with elements to be held in public and private.
Ministers will sign off on the plan at this morning's Cabinet meeting.

Fianna Fáil Ministers will be pushed into the public element of the inquiry following the backlash over reports it would all be done beind closed doors.

it’s believed that Ministers will agree to a Commission of Investigation type process to do a lot of the work in private. Public hearings with key figures being questioned would then be done by an Oireachtas sub-committee.
But this compromise proposal is unlikely to satisfy Fine Gael and Labour who'll use it as opposition when the Dáil returns this afternoon.

Dun Loaghaire/Rathdown Issues Water Shortage Notice

Dun Laoghaire Rathdown county council has issued a water notice for a number of residential areas.
Water Pressure will be reduced in parts of Glenageary, Sandycove Dalkey Village, Monkstown, Rochestown Loughlinstown and Ballybrack.
A “Water-Off” Notice has also been issued for the Mount Merrion, Stillorgan, Kilmacud and Goatstown areas until the middle of this morning.
Water tankers will be provided at Hyde Road, Dalkey: from noon today until 7pm and at Avondale Road: from 10 am to 4 pm.

Large Part Of North East Wicklow Affected By Burst Water Main

Wicklow County Council has issued a water supply notice, on behalf of Dublin city council advising of reduced or no supply of water for a number of areas in Wicklow.
Due to a Major Burst in the 24 " Watermain at Newtownmountkennedy, Dublin City Council has shut down the main supply with effect from 6 o’clock this morning. the council says the shutdown will be for a minimum of 24 hours.

The areas effected are Kilpedder, Newtown, Newcastle, Kilcoole, Greystones, Delgany and Bray

the council says there will no supply or reduced pressure in all of these areas.

Doctors Fear Spread Of Diesase As Aid Efforts Continue In Haiti

One week on from the Haiti earthquake, the pace of delivery of food and medical aid is picking up.

Doctors are now warning disease will be the next big challenge for tens of thousands of people left injured and homeless.

Latest estimates are putting the death toll from last week's disaster at up to 2 hundred thousand.

But many victims still haven't seen any sign of help from the government or international aid agencies.

Investigations Continue Into Fala Stabbing In Tipperary

Gardai are continuing to question a man about a fatal stabbing in Co Tipperary.

28-year-old labourer Sean Murphy was stabbed to death during a row in the village of Lattin on Sunday night.

The father of two was pronounced dead at the scene.

The suspect, who's in his 40s, is being held at Tipperary Garda Station.

Confidential Report Into Insider Dealing Due Before Commercial Court

An inspector's report investigating unlawful insider dealing by DCC and by its former Chief Executive Jim Flavin is back before the Commercial Court.

The currenlty confidential report was completed by barrister Bill Shipsey late last year and mainly relates to the 106 million euro sale of the company's stake in Fyffes in February 2000.

It has been handed into the Director of Corporate Enforcement and could result in disqualification proceedings against persons involved in the share sales.

Monday, January 18, 2010

Post-Mortem Completed On Body Of Baby Boy Found In Mayo

A post mortem has been completed on the body of a newborn baby found at a house in Co. Mayo.

Gardai found the "full term" baby boy in Westport at around 5 o'clock this morning, after a woman sought medical treatment at Mayo General Hospital in Castlebar.

The woman is still under medical supervision.

The autopsy was carried out earlier today by the State Pathologist Dr. Marie Cassidy and the house where the infant was found is being technically examined.

Wicklow Water Supply Still Affected By Cold Weather

According to Wicklow County Council the water supply in Wicklow Town will again be off again each night this week from the hours of 11 pm to 7 am.

Also a Major Burst in the watermain at Newtownmountkennedy, means that a 24hour shutdown will affect:

Kilpedder
Newtown
Newcastle
Kilcoole
Greystones
Delgany
Bray

There will no supply or reduced pressure in all of these areas.

Murder Acussed Eamonn Received Texts From Lover On Day Of Wife's Death

The murder trial of Dublin man Eamonn Lillis has heard he received 4 texts from his lover Jean Tracey's phone on the day of his wife's death.

It's clear from phone messages read out in court that Eamonn Lillis planned to set up a meeting with his lover on the day Celine Cawley died.

At a minute past 11 on the eve of her death, he received a text from the then 31 year old masseuse Jean Tracey with the words 'well as usual I have to play it by ear, but will contact you, night my angel, love you infinitely ..sleep well'

Call records show there were responses from his phone but these are permanently deleted...However a message earlier that day from his mobile has the words...'i really miss you baby, call or text asap, I really love you x'

The following morning - the 15th - Jean Tracey texted Eamonn Lillis 4 times but there's no reply..

A day later she left a phone message to say that she didn't want him to think she was abandoning him but she believed they should stop all contact until this calmed down...for both their sakes...

Earthquake Strikes Guatemala

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake has hit Guatemala's Pacific coast.

The quake struck near it's border with El Salvador, the U.S. Geological Survey reported.

The U-S-G-S also said the quake was 64 miles deep and was centered 60 miles southeast of Guatemala City.

Nurses At Mater Private Hospital To Strike

Nurses are to engage in strike action at the Mater Private Hospital in Dublin - in protest over pay cuts.

Members of SIPTU and the Irish Nurses and Midwives Union are to begin the industrial action on February 1st.

The unions say the move follows the unilateral decision by management at the hospital to impose pay cuts of between 5 and 7.5 per cent.

Paul Bell from SIPTU says his members have been left with no other choice.

Man Stabbed In Tipperary Is Named

A man who died after being stabbed during a row in Tipperary last night has been named.

He was 28 year old labourer Sean Murphy.

The father of two died after an altercation on the street in the village of Lattin.

A man in his 40's was arrested a short time after the attack and is being held at Tipperary Garda Station.

EU Pledges 400 Million Euros In Aid For Haiti

There have been new pledges of financial help for the victims of the Haiti earthquake.

In Brussels, EU ministers have offered at least 400-million euros in long-term aid.

So far, 92 million euro has been donated by EU members, with an additional 100 million going to non-humanitarian assistance such restoring Government capabilities.

Although there have been problems in getting food, water and medicine to people in Port au Prince it's understood supplies are starting to get through.

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown says the money is beginning to make a difference.

Infant's Remains Found In County Mayo House

An investigation is underway in the death of a newborn baby boy in Co Mayo.

The infants remains were found at a house in Westport.

Gardai say they found the remains of the "full term" baby boy at a house in Westport at around 5 o'clock this morning.

Its understood they called to the address after a woman attended Mayo General Hospital in Castlebar seeking medical treatment.

The state pathologist is understood to be en-route to Mayo and will carry out a post-mortem on the infants remains later today .

The house has been sealed off for a technical examination.

Its understood the woman is still being treated in hospital.

Reduced Alcohol Content Leads To Reduced Cancer Risk

Wine drinkers could cut their risk of developing cancer by switching to lower-alcohol alternatives.

The World Cancer Research Fund says people who have a large glass of wine
every day could reduce their cancer risk by switching from a 14 percent alcohol content variety to one with 10 percent.

The fund estimates 20-thousand cases of cancer diagnosed every year are linked to alcohol.

Public Ballot For Tickets To Iraq Inquiry In Britain

A public ballot is to take place for people wanting tickets for Tony Blair's appearance at the Iraq Inquiry.

The former Prime Minister's expected before the panel within the next couple of weeks.

Today Jonathan Powell, who was Mr. Blair's Chief of Staff during his time at Number Ten, will present HIS evidence.

Five Die As Violence Breaks Out In Kabul

The Afghan health ministry says five people have been killed and several wounded in violence in the capital Kabul.

Explosions and shootings have taken place in what appears to be a series of co-ordinated attacks.

Suspected Taliban militants stormed banks, shops and government buildings.

Gardai In Tipperary Continue To Question Man Over Fatal Stabbing

Gardaí are continuing to question a man in his 40's over a fatal stabbing in Co. Tipperary in which A man in his late 20's died.

It follows the murder of two men in Dublin over the weekend, bringing to six the number of killings so far this year.

Last night's attack took place in the village of Lattin, just a few miles from Tipperary Town.

It's understood a row broke out at a house in the village and a man was stabbed. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The killing is the second fatal stabbing over the weekend.

24 year old Warren O' Connor was killed following a row an apartment complex in Donaghmede in Dublin on Friday night.

And in a gangland attack, Noel Deans was gunned down, as he made his way home from the pub in Coolock on Saturday night.

It brings to six the number of murders in Ireland so far this year.

Irish Aid Agency Calls For Co-Ordinated Approach To Haiti Relief Effort

Irish aid agency GOAL is calling for a co-ordinated international relief effort in Haiti.

CEO John O'Shea says one person needs to be put in charge, as efforts continue to get aid to hundreds of thousands of people left injured or homeless, from last week's devastating earthquake.

Thousands more U.S. troops are due to arrive in the Caribbean country today as officials fear the death toll could reach 200 thousand.

Roads In Leinster Sustained Damage Following Weekend Flooding

Extensive flooding caused major disruption over the weekend throughout Leinster.

In Arklow, the 19 arches bridge was closed off after the Avoca river burst it’s banks, while residents were forced to leave their homes.

Homeowners were also evacuated in parts of Bray, and the harbour in Greystones was also affected by flooding.

The main street in Baltinglass was forced to close due to flooding and in Carlow tullow and Borris also sustained substantial damage due to floods.

The quays were closed off in Enniscorthy in county Wexford.

A.A. roadwatch is warning motorists to drive with caution this morning, following what they say is extensive damage to roads in Wicklow, Carlow, Wexford and Kilkenny.

Seconf Man Detained In Connection With Wicklow Murder

Gardai in Wicklow are continuing to question a man over the murder of Stephen O' Meara.

The body of the 26-year old father of three was found in a shallow grave during a search of a wooded area near Redcross in Wicklow on Christmas Eve.

He'd been missing since August.

A 46-year-old man, who was arrested yesterday morning, is being questioned at Wicklow Garda Station under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act.
He can be held for up to seven days.
In December, a 24 year old man was charged with Stephen murder.

U.S. Troops Called In To Patrol Streets Of Haiti

Thousands of US troops are to patrol Haiti's streets to try to maintain law and order.
They'll support UN forces who are already working in the earthquake-ravaged country.

Survivors have been frustrated by delays in getting aid supplies to them, with some protests turning violent.

Investigations Continue Into Fatal Stabbing In Tipperary

Gardai in Tipperary are investigating the death of a man after he was stabbed last night.

The incident happened shortly before 10 o'clock last night in a housing estate in the village of Lattin, near Tipperary town.

It's understood the dead man was in his late twenties - one man's been arrested for questioning and is being held at Tipperary town Garda station.

60,000 Clamped In Dublin Last Year

200 Dublin car owners failed to reclaim their cars after getting clamped last year.

According to figures, the clampers raked in almost 5 million euro in 2009, with over 60-thousand drivers getting clamped.

Noel Purcell Walk, Shelbourne Road and Jervis Street were the top three streets for getting clamped in Dublin last year.

Green Party Pushes For Public Investigation Into Banks

Green Party leader John Gormley's looking to meet with the Taoiseach today over the banking inquiry that's causing controversy before its even announced.
It follows reports at the weekend that Fianna Fail members of cabinet want the investigation into Ireland's banking crisis conducted in private.
However The Greens want to use an Oireachtas Committee style process to investigate the practises of our banks during the booms times.

However the Cabinet is expected to sign off on the format of the inquiry at its weekly meeting tomorrow.

Lillis Murder Trial Continues Today

The trial of Eamonn Lillis for the murder of his wife Celine Cawley enters its second week of prosecution evidence.

The 52 year old denies killing the mother of one at their Dublin home on Windgate Road, Howth on December 15th 2008.

The trial has heard evidence that, following his arrest, gardai put it to Eamonn Lillis that he was his wife's lapdog, a second citizen who earned 100 thousand euro a year, compared to her half a million. When asked if Celine Cawley was slightly bullying towards him he replied 'no'.
The jury has also heard how the accused struck up an affair with his 31 year old masseuse Jean Tracey ten weeks before his wife's death on December 15th 2008. On the morning she died, the accused called emergency services to their house, where they found the mother of one lying near a single brick in a pool of blood on patio decking .

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