Public service trade unions have welcomed the €38.33 fortnightly “down payment” for their members as a result of the Government’s decision to bring forward pay increases from April, but have warned that much more will be expected in a new deal later this year.

If double Major-winning Rory McIlroy qualifies for the 2016 Olympics he will represent Ireland in Rio de Janeiro.

Paul Lawrie’s golf foundation, which supports junior golf in the north-east of Scotland, has been given a £25,000 (€29,491) grant by the Royal and Ancient Club.