LONDON could be forgiven for resting on its laurels.

Zimbabwe promised to withdraw its soldiers from diamond fields in the east, an official newspaper reported – a week after a rights group alleged the military was committing killings and abuses in the area.

Gas company Eirgas is to buy 40% of the Kinsale Head gas field in Co Cork, it has been announced.

Singer Amy Winehouse today denied assaulting a woman at a charity ball.

Canadian rescuers searched freezing waters for 16 missing people after a helicopter heading to Atlantic oil fields reported mechanical problems and ditched in the sea off Newfoundland.

SINCE the Celtic Tiger, and latterly the smoking ban, more and more people are opting for a meal out with partner or friends as an alternative to a night in the pub. The attraction of meal in a nice restaurant is having good conversation, food and wine in a relaxed, comfortable environment.

LAST Thursday I went for a walk on a beach near Kinsale.

IN September 2005, RTÉ commenced broadcasting in widescreen format. I applaud the national broadcaster on moving to this technology as widescreen is the way of the future.

A rapidly-spreading US wildfire forced the evacuation of nearly 200 homes in Montana, while nursing home residents in Washington state were evacuated because of smoke from a nearby blaze.

WELL done to UCC - University of the Year 2005.

OIL exports from southern Iraq have been brought to a complete halt following a spate of pipeline attacks launched by insurgents trying to undermine the nation’s interim government.