A West Cork village is gearing up for an influx of more than 3,500 people next month as locals make final preparations for one of the most prestigious drama festivals on the national circuit.

MINISTER for Children Brian Lenihan has revealed plans to introduce “hanging out centres” to stop young people from loitering around street corners.

Participation in sport drops by as much as 30% over the teenage years, according to a new study commissioned by the National Children's Office.