The former head social worker for the Defence Forces has said he was ignored repeatedly when he warned Department of Defence officials about increasing poverty levels being endured by serving military personnel and their families.

One of the country’s most exclusive golf clubs, Lahinch, “steadied the ship” last year as profits jumped by 22% to €355,649.

US military officials will investigate charges of abuse against terrorist suspects being interrogated at Guantanamo Bay in Cuba, authorities announced.

A county Offaly company has won a €1.7m contract with the Department of Defence.