The embers of the past sparked into flames over the last few days, as tales of ordinary madness reminded us, once more, of just how demented were the bubble years.

GROUPS opposed to the reduction of services in Monaghan General Hospital said there’s been a “shift in attitude” from the Government on plans for changing the health service in the north-east.

Three more candidates have been elected to the Seanad’s agriculture panel as the counting of votes continues in Leinster House.

The counting of votes in the Seanad election will resume at 10am in Leinster House.