Just how vulnerable homeless people are is highlighted in a report which found the average age of death among those living on the streets is 42 years.

The networking organisation that oversees primary healthcare services for the homeless has said it is aware of a fatal drug overdose, usually involving a young client, every fortnight.

Irish thalidomide sufferers are seeking an apology from the Taoiseach, claiming he misled the Dáil about the progress of talks and that he is falsely trying to claim credit for an improved compensation package they are due to receive from the German government.