Calls to the State’s money advice helpline, established to assist people dealing with problem debt reached a six-year high in 2017, figures have revealed.

The Legal Aid Board was so cash-strapped last year it reallocated funds earmarked for the Abhaile Scheme which helps people who are insolvent and in mortgage arrears.

AN Irishman staying in Baghdad to be the voice of ordinary Iraqis in the looming war, insisted yesterday he was no hero.