Political Editor Harry McGee wonders how much of the €1.25 million spent by TDs and senators on foreign travel in the two years to August 2004 was a necessary expense.

NON-GOVERNMENT foreign travel by TDs and senators has cost the taxpayer at least €1.25 million since June 2002, figures compiled by the Oireachtas have revealed.

THE collapse of the court trials because of suspected intimidation has contributed to calls for dedicated officers to be assigned to protect witnesses.

Though still at a pilot stage, the Drug Court is beginning to prove that it can be effective in combating the insidious scourge of drugs.