An initiative is being launched to combat alarming drop-out rates across Ireland’s third-level institutions, as figures reveal that more than half of students on at least 12 leading courses nationwide fail to complete their first year.

This is the strongest jobs market since 2007. Graduates will reap the rewards, writes JOHN DALY

BORD GAIS Neptune coach Pat Price feels it’s time for Basketball Ireland to reexamine the two-conference system which has been operating in the Nivea for Men’s SuperLeague.

CORK derby games in particular are special but last night’s NIVEA for MEN SuperLeague thriller between UCC Demons and National Event Hire Neptune went beyond all the boundaries for excitement, drama and then a nailbiting finish.

SALARY levels in information technology (IT) and teleco sectors have fallen by up to 50%, a wages survey has found.