DISCRIMINATION against immigrants is widespread in Ireland and the country is one of the most difficult in Europe for minorities according to a major report.

The report of the European Union’s Fundamental Rights Agency makes alarming reading in relation to the apparent level of intolerance in this country.

Oil prices have touched $100 a barrel for the first time.

Declaring that high oil prices are a threat to the global economy, the world’s industrialized countries urged producers to provide price relief by boosting supplies.

A new UN report has shown that 40 million people worldwide are now suffering from AIDS and HIV.