"I offended a lot of people" - Varadkar apologises over "sinning priest" remark
The Taoiseach has apologised for comparing the Fianna Fáil leader to a 'sinning priest.'
Leo Varadkar made the remarks during a debate with Micheál Martin in the Dáil yesterday.
He said Deputy Martin was like a parish priest preaching to avoid sin and then engaging in all kinds of sin behind the altar.
A number of TDs called for an apology, and Leo Varadkar gave one this afternoon.
Government announces €10m package aimed at improving Defence Forces pay
Members of the Defence Forces Artillery Corps. Image: Irish Defence ForcesThe association representing members of the Defence Forces has said it remains “deeply concerned” about the Government’s overall approach to its members pay.
PDFORRA was speaking after the Government approved a €10m annual package aimed at improving take home pay for Ireland’s soldiers, sailors and aircrew.
The package was announced after the Public Services Pay Commission released its report on recruitment and retention issues in the Defence Forces.
Oireachtas warned that the chances of another recession in Ireland are 100%
The Oireachtas has been told that there is a 100% chance that Ireland will be hit by another recession.
The National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) appeared before the Public Accounts Committee this morning.
In his opening statement the agency's CEO Conor O'Kelly said Ireland has paid out €60bn in interest payments on the national debt in the ten years since the last financial crash.
Shaking felt in LA after 6.4 magnitude earthquake hits California
Image: USGSAn earthquake with an estimated 6.4 magnitude has been recorded in southern California, with significant shaking felt in Los Angeles.
The US Geological Survey (USGS) reports that it happened at around 10:33am local time, at a depth of 8.7 km.
The epicentre was around 12 kilometres south-west of Searless Valley in the Mojave Desert.
Skull and bones found at Bray recycling plant were "medical specimens"
Gardaí say a skull and bones uncovered at a recycling plant in County Wicklow were "medical specimens" used for teaching.
The human remains were found at a plant in Bray yesterday.
Following examination by forensic experts, investigators said the bones were donated to science for the purpose of training medical professionals.
They have since been "returned to their rightful owner."
