Ashling Murphy murder investigation
Gardaí investigating the murder of Ashling Murphy have arrested a second man in connection with the 23-year-old's death.
The second man, aged in his 30s, is currently detained in the Eastern Region, Gardaí said, under provision of Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act 1939 as amended.
He is being questioned in relation to potential withholding of information contrary to the Offences Against the State (Amendment) Act 1998.
Gardaí confirmed officers are continuing to question a man, also aged in his 30s, arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of Ms Murphy's murder.
Government to consider easing restrictions
The Taoiseach has said the country can be “optimistic” about the future, amid growing expectation that coronavirus restrictions may soon be lifted.
Micheál Martin told reporters on Wednesday that the Government will give “clarity” later this week regarding plans to ease Covid rules.
The National Public Health Emergency Team will meet on Thursday to discuss the situation.
Meanwhile, publicans have said they “would make every effort” to be ready for a later closing time this weekend if given the green light by Government.
Hybrid Leaving Certificate
Students are holding a number of protests across the State on Wednesday calling for a hybrid Leaving Cert.
Students have said they want a choice between predicted grades and exams due to the disruption that has been caused by the pandemic.
More than two-thirds of Leaving Certificate students have said they want a hybrid state exams model this summer, according to a recent survey.
However, senior education sources have previously commented that the hybrid Leaving Cert of 2021 which gave students a choice between sitting written exams and accredited grades will be “impossible” to re-run this year.
Aggravated burglary in Co Sligo
Gardaí are appealing for information following an aggravated burglary in Co Sligo on Tuesday.
A number of men are understood to have forced their way into a property in Skreen at approximately 7pm and assaulted a man in his 70s.
The injured man was brought to Sligo University Hospital for treatment.
A sum of cash was also taken from the property during the incident.
Gardaí are asking witnesses to come forward, urging anyone who was in the Skreen/Dromard area between 4pm-8pm on Tuesday to contact them.
Man charged with murder of Michael Tormey
A man has been remanded in custody charged with murder following the shooting of Michael Tormey in Ballyfermot, Dublin.
Mr Tormey (49) was shot dead outside his home on Thomond Road, Ballyfermot, earlier this month.
It is believed the victim had attended a social event on the night of his death, before returning home at 3.30am.
Gardaí do not believe he was involved in any kind of row in the hours before the shooting.
Gardaí have said the woman (39) who had been arrested in connection with the shooting was released without charge.
Lotto winner to claim prize
The winner of Saturday's record-breaking lotto jackpot has made contact with the National Lottery to claim their prize.
The €19.06 million-winning ticket was purchased in Castlebar, Co Mayo in Laura's XL on Hopkin's Road.
The jackpot was won after 62 draws without an overall winner, controversially rolling since June last year.
