The Government’s promise of a talks forum to resolve bitter disputes over the controversial Corrib gas project descended into chaos today.

A new forum set up by the Government to try to settle the dispute over the Corrib gas pipeline is due to hold its first meeting today.

THEY have inspired poets and artists, were the victims of fire and war, provided safe habitats for wildlife, have a rich diversity of flora and have kept the home fires burning for generations of Irish people.

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has dismissed as "disgraceful scare tactics" comments by Minister for Justice Michael McDowell that the party was playing a significant role in prompting trouble at the Shell gas terminal site in Co Mayo.

Preliminary indications from this year's national Irish Census has shown a staggering population decrease in north west Mayo.