If the phonetics are similarily explosive, and the brief word begins with that sibilant sixth letter of the alphabet, then it is easy enough to understand how an innocent five-letter word can stray into the low caste pen occupied by its shunned four letter fellows.

A SCOTTISH university is to undertake a state-ordered report into a controversial gas extraction method known as “fracking” to determine potential environmental impacts and will be completed early next year.

IN a week that the ever popular Inland Waterways Association of Ireland’s 51st Shannon Boat Rally is underway, it is a timely to publicise two major industrial undertakings that could grossly affect the majestic Shannon river system.

PEOPLE living in flood- risk areas in Co Limerick below Parteen Weir were yesterday warned to prepare to evacuate at short notice as more water had to be released through Ardnacrusha ESB power station due to record high levels on Lough Derg.

Anxious communities along the banks of the River Shannon were tonight bracing themselves for devastating floods after waters reached record heights.

Taoiseach Brian Cowen tonight gave a stark warning to flood ravaged communities across Ireland – it will get worse before it gets better.

RIVERS and canals could have an important role to play in the country’s transport system, north and south.

A 72-YEAR-OLD Co Cork man has rowed the length of the River Shannon to raise funds for an Indian boy born without legs or arms.

Donal Hickey reports on Ireland’s Atlantic oil basins.

GLOBAL hotel group Ramada International plans to have 37 hotels in Ireland by 2007.

Met Éireann has announced plans to begin a new forecast of weather conditions on Ireland’s lakes.