Republicans have won control of the US Senate, seizing seats from Democrats in mid-term elections shaped by deep voter discontent with President Barack Obama.

The jury in the trial of three former Anglo Irish Bank executives was today shown a letter from which stated the Financial Regulator had not given its approval for the Maple Ten deal.

A 17-year-old who claimed his profound hearing loss was not picked up until he was more than three years of age has settled an action for damages over the alleged delay for €300,000.

THERE will be tears and tantrums from the start of Conrad Gallagher’s quest for Ireland’s Celebrity Head Chef next week.

THE Health Service Executive (HSE) has confirmed it has set up the new child death review panel and has also named a review team to deal with the death of teenager Daniel McAnaspie.

A NUMBER of Fianna Fáil black spots have emerged around the country where the party traditionally enjoyed strong support but faced near wipeout at the weekend.

THE Financial Regulator, Patrick Neary, will be forced to answer questions on whether Irish banks were involved in irresponsible lending leading to the current financial crisis when he meets a Dáil watchdog today.

A SISTER of Defence Minister Willie O’Dea has put down a marker for the local elections next year.

CROSS-PARTY tributes were yesterday paid to a former Fine Gael councillor who tragically perished in a house fire in West Cork.

MEMBERS of an expert group on crime statistics have clashed over findings on how to improve the compilation of crime figures by the gardaí.

ENTERPRISE Ireland supported the establishment of 61 new high-growth potential start-ups in 2003, which involved a total investment of €75 million.

Several ex-Elan workers have set up BioClin Research Labs, to provide a range of research and development programmes to the pharma, biotech, vetinary, medical and related sectors and industries.

Justice Minister Michael McDowell is due to launch a report on crime prevention later today.