HSE chief says he does not agree 'with every line' of report on Portlaoise

LISTEN: Health minister said he was "ashamed" of treatment of parents

The head of the Health Service Executive (HSE) says he does not agree with every part of the HIQA report into services at Midland Regional Hospital in Portlaoise.

Earlier, the Health Minister Leo Varadkar told the Oireachtas Health Committee that he was 'personally ashamed' of the way in which bereaved parents were dealt with in Portlaoise.

Burton warns media that balance isn't just about time, it's about challenging false claims

Tánaiste also backs TDs refusing to remove Yes badges in Leinster House

The Tánaiste has warned broadcasters that balanced coverage of the same sex marriage referendum campaign is not just about time, but also challenging false claims.

“Robust questioning is in order,” Ms Burton said.

She says unsubstantiated claims of issues that are nothing to do with the referendum must be challenged by broadcasters.

Government denies cut to Catholic agency funding is connected with referendum

LISTEN: The CEO of Barnardos says the link between the two is 'unfair'

The minister responsible for Túsla says its decision to cut funding for the Catholic marriage agency Accord has nothing to do with the referendum on same-sex marriage.

James Reilly says Tusla is happy to fund marriage counselling services but not religious marriage preparation courses.

He was responding to claims in the Dáil from independent TD Mattie McGrath, who believes the funding is linked to the referendum.

Department of Finance accused of writing 'blank cheque' for Siteserv inquiry

LISTEN: Fianna Fáil's Sean Fleming expressed his shock earlier

The Department of Finance has been accused of writing a 'blank cheque' for the inquiry into the sale of SiteServ.

The claims come as the department admits it cannot estimate how much it will have to pay IBRC liquidators to undertake the inquiry.

Gardaí continue to question four men over dissident Republican activity

LISTEN: Offences include membership of an unlawful organisation and possession of explosives

Gardaí have arrested four men in a major crackdown on Republican dissidents ahead of the visit of Prince Charles next week.

It is understood a leading figure in the Republican movement was arrested, as officers carried out more than 20 searches in Louth, Wexford and Dublin.