Ireland has joined 14 other European countries in condemning the escalation of violence in Lebanon which has seen more than 1,300 deaths, including the killing of children, aid workers and journalists.

Judicial review challenge was brought by Friends of the Irish Environment

Meanwhile, transport minister Darragh O'Brien said he was 'taken aback' by a judge’s decision to ban a garda from driving following a pursuit with a scrambler bike

Accused is charged with escaping from custody as he was being taken into Cork Prison, and assault causing harm to a garda at Cork Prison on January 15

Mahya Ostovar is an Iranian political activist who has researched opposition movements in the country