Dog owners will soon find it easier to be reunited with lost pets or to rehome a dog in need of a ‘forever home’ thanks to a new service which Cork County Council is helping to develop.

The remains of one of Ireland’s finest Georgian villas could face demolition after it was gutted in a suspected arson attack.

Cork County Council is preparing to declare war on Japanese knotweed, an invasive plant which can destroy houses and which has now established itself in several parts of the county.