The North's escalating drinking water crisis is in danger of developing into a major health emergency, it was claimed today.

The jury in the trial of a man accused of the sexual abuse and neglect and ill-treatment of a young boy almost six years ago has been directed to return on Monday when it is hoped the case can go ahead.

A TYRONE man appeared before a special sitting of the Special Criminal Court in Dublin yesterday on charges of IRA membership and related weapons offences.

A Tyrone man was today brought before the Special Criminal Court and charged with membership of the IRA and the possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Two Co Waterford men were charged with INLA membership at a special sitting of the Special Criminal Court in Dublin today.

Five anti-war protesters have had their bail conditions amended after their trial for causing €500,000 worth of damage to a US naval plane in Shannon was transferred to Dublin.