The prospects for continued growth across the Irish economy got another boost yesterday, with a reputable survey suggesting that manufacturers are at last benefiting from a pickup in demand at home - not just from surging demand for their exports - and are also hiring more people.

THE Republic of Ireland’s World Cup qualifying rivals Cyprus have appointed Angelos Anastassiades as their new coach.

The Republic of Ireland’s number one, Alan Kelly, has had a transfer request accepted by Blackburn Rovers.