With the country basking in spring sunshine and sporting success, the St Patrick’s festival got off to an early start filled with craic, ceoil — and curry.

BORD Pleanála has upheld the decision of South Tipperary County Council to grant permission for a cattle mart near Tipperary town.

British bank Lloyds TSB was at the centre of an outsourcing row with its staff union today after the company announced the closure of a back office operation.