The terms of reference for the new investigation into mother and baby homes received a broad welcome — but also criticism over its exclusion of Magdalene Laundries and adoptions involving state hospitals.

While some people may warn against judging the past with the knowledge of the present, the Government’s initial probe into mother-and-baby homes shows stark questions were being asked about death rates at the homes 75 years ago.

As the World Cup gets into full swing, Robert Hume throws a spotlight on the Irishman who in 1890 invented the penalty kick — soccer’s most famous rule

According to records held in the archives of the Kerry County Library, in December 1929 the Department of Local Government and Public Health (DLGPH) issued a circular to all Irish local authorities requesting information on "unmarried mothers" in county homes.

LOCATED on the edge of Castlemartyr village, Co Cork, on the site of a former Carmelite Monastery, Castlemartyr Resort incorporates a five-star hotel, spa and links-style golf course set in spacious grounds.

GUESTS at the opulent Capella hotel in Castlemartyr can avail of any service they desire once it’s legal and moral, president and chief executive Horst Schulze pledged yesterday at the opening of the €80 million resort.