A round-up of today's other stories in brief
Assault on girl at school investigated
Gardaí in Co Galway are continuing their investigation into an alleged assault on a 15-year-old girl pupil at a secondary school late last week. Several students have received suspensions at the school, and gardaí have begun questioning a number of pupils in relation to the alleged incident. It is understood that the girl is in a very traumatised state.
The school's board of management said a number of pupils would remain suspended while an investigation continued.
Pledge on agency staff
Minister for Enterprise and Employment Micheál Martin says the Government is prepared to address equal treatment for agency workers in a new national agreement. But he said the six-week period of employment put forward by the Labour Party, after which agency workers would enjoy the same terms and conditions as regular staff, was "far too short".
Building firm lays off staff
Construction company the Clarke Group, based in Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh, has laid off some 40 staff at its Drung, Co Cavan, plant.
"Due to a quieter time of year for the construction industry, the Clarke Group has temporarily laid off a small number of staff at their Drung site," David Clarke, Clarke's manager, said.
Séamus Kelly bust acquired
A bronze bust of former Irish Times theatre critic Séamus Kelly was privately purchased for €1,100 at auction at Woodwards in Cork last night.
The bust of Mr Kelly was commissioned by friends of the critic and was cast by another friend, sculptor Kieran Kelly.