Politics - Shatter slams Fianna Fáil 'cowardice'

FINE Gael has described as an "unprecedented act of political cowardice" the decision of several Fianna Fáil TDs not to run in the next election. Alan Shatter TD said it highlighted the "bankrupt sense of morality" in the party and contempt for the public.

Protest - Single fathers' demonstration

SINGLE fathers dressed in Santa Claus outfits held a protest in Dublin yesterday to call for a change in legislation concerning their rights over their children. The Unmarried and Separated Fathers of Ireland (USFI) group planned to lay wreaths in the river Liffey to commemorate those men who have committed suicide at Christmas.

Road fatality - Man struck by car in south Dublin

A MAN has died after being hit by a car in the early hours of the morning on the N11 at White's Cross, Blackrock, Co Dublin. The 36-year-old was rushed to St Vincent's Hospital.

Transport - Limerick-Dublin motorway to open

THE final section of the M7 between Dublin and Limerick is expected to open by Wednesday, the National Roads Authority has said. The announcement follows the resolution of a dispute involving some 40 workers who have not been paid since the beginning of November.

Banking - Finance quizzes BoI on €500,000 bonus

FINANCE minister Brian Lenihan has said his department has sought an explanation from Bank of Ireland over the payment of a €500,000 bonus to an executive in Bank of Ireland Asset Management in recent days. Speaking to the Sunday Tribune, Lenihan said the explanation had been sought because the payment had not been brought to the attention of "the Department of Finance, the NTMA or myself".