Schools expect “huge absenteeism” rates this week due to fears among parents over rising numbers of Covid-19 cases and proximity to the Christmas holidays; primary and secondary schools are due to close on December 22nd, and reopen on January 6th, 2022

PM Harris says Israel's decision to close its embassy in Dublin is 'deeply regrettable' and a sign of the 'diplomacy of distraction', adding Ireland will continue to engage diplomatically, but keep affirming its position on the war in Gaza

New bandaging aims to ease the agony of those living with genetic skin condition Epidermolysis Bullosa; Maynooth University is leading research into 'spray on, wash off' bandages that won't cause severe pain when applied or removed, as those now used do

Every year about 300 children contact Childline to report sexual abuse, according to the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, Ireland's only 24/7 listening support service for children and young people

4.888 cars were impounded from unaccompanied novice drivers in the first nine months of this year, an increase registered since the Clancy Amendment came into effect, passasing from 2.511 cars in 2019 to 5.035 cars in 2023