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Catch-up with what you've missed with our morning briefing

IRELAND

An investigation into “serious financial impropriety” in Bord Gáis north and south of the border has resulted in a fine of £500,000 (€644,122) in the North and sanctions against four employees of the company in the Republic, the Irish Examiner has learned.

Both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have, for the first time, conceded that talks between the parties over government options are likely as fresh efforts get under way to win the support of TDs.

Former Anglo Irish Bank chief executive David Drumm could today taste freedom from custody for the first time since he was arrested by US officials last October.

The Taoiseach plans to discuss the stalled Cork transatlantic fights issue with US President Barack Obama in the White House this week.

The union that represents Luas drivers has welcomed operator Transdev's decision not to hire private buses on St Patrick's Day.

The cost of renting in Dublin has passed the levels at the peak of the boom for the first time.

WORLD 

Authorities in North Carolina say there is not enough evidence to press charges against Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump for his behaviour in connection with a violent altercation at one of his rallies last week.

Some 12.6m people across the globe die every year due to unhealthy environments, according to a new World Health Organisation (WHO) report.

SPORT

One of the best things about arriving here at Cheltenham is that the talking stops and the action begins, writes Ruby Walsh.

There may not be anything at stake for Cork in next Sunday’s Allianz Hurling League Division 1A clash with Tipperary at Semple Stadium, but defender Damien Cahalane stresses his team must build on the improved showing against Kilkenny last Saturday night.

BUSINESS

Concerns of an over-concentration of pubs in the Camden St area of Dublin have resulted in British pub operator JD Wetherspoon’s plans for a €4m bar and hotel development being put on hold.

Irish consumers’ grocery shopping spend rose by 3.6% over the past 12 weeks — despite rising prices — providing further evidence that household finances are strengthening.

VIEWPOINTS

Donald Trump, if elected president, plans to scrap the J1 visa system, used by many Irish students every year, knowing full well that his own businesses would be affected, writes Jeff Horwitz

LIFESTYLE

As an Irish person in London, March 17 should be a day to celebrate all things Irish, but for Katy Harrington Paddy’s Day is as authentic as green beer

VIDEO

Horse racing correspondents Tommy Lyons and Darren Norris join Peter McNamara to discuss the opening day of the Prestbury Park extravaganza on Irish Examiner's BallTalk TV. Video by Pauline Hallissey. Irish Examiner.

VIRAL

Forever 21, a well known clothing brand which has an outlet in Dublin, has sparked controversy with a ’graphic tee’.

A fashion designer has given new meaning to the term clothes horse – by creating a three-piece suit fit for a stallion.

TECHNOW

GAMING: Hitman is being released episodically and IO Interactive says that all seven episodes will be available “by the end of summer”.

MOVIES: John Boyega visited children in Royal London Hospital and brightened their day.

TECH: Given the success of the P8, it comes as no surprise that Huawei has been working on a successor. Images of the handset have appeared online, confirming that the P9 is on the way.

SHOWBIZ

Secrets Of The Force Awakens: A Cinematic Journey will be a bonus feature on the Star Wars 7 Blu-ray and Digital HD.

MOST READ RIGHT NOW

A woman who was helped by a homeless man when she found herself stranded more than 50 miles from home has raised nearly £10,000 to say thank you.

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