An Oireachtas committee examining issues surrounding alcohol abuse is expected to draw a direct link today between the problem and the sponsorship of sporting events by drinks companies.

AN Oireachtas committee yesterday called for radical measures to reduce road fatalities including the introduction of systems used in aviation.

AN Oireachtas committee will this week be asked to probe a report that a company is availing of a legal loophole to acquire a State property valued at €300 million for less than €20m.

An Oireachtas watchdog tonight ruled there were no grounds for an inquiry into the appointment of public relations consultant Monica Leech to the Department of Transport.

An Oireachtas committee should be set up to monitor the Gardaí and ensure the recommendations laid out in the hard-hitting Morris Report are followed, it was claimed tonight.