Minister Aodhán O'Ríordán has said new laws decriminalising drugs would not make them legal.

The Government is being warned that decriminalising small amounts of drugs could lead to a 'surge' in young drug users.

It is expected Ireland will receive around 20 refugees from Syria before the end of this year.

The Minister for State Aodhan O’Riordan with responsibility for New Communities has said it is likely Ireland will take in more refugees from Syria, as conflict in the war-torn country continues.