US government shutdown drags on

Talks between President Barack Obama and top Republicans have failed to end a government shutdown in the US - with both sides accusing the other of refusing to negotiate.

The breakdown ensures that the country's heading into a third day of a spending freeze.

Mr Obama says the political crisis could trigger a catastrophic debt default.

Support group says abuse reports are not being investigated

A number of incidents of child sexual abuse reported to HSE child protection services are not being investigated.

That's according to support group for child abuse victims, One in Four, which is today launching its 10th anniversary annual report.

LA jury decides Michael Jackson's concert promoter was not negligent

The jury in case Michael Jackson's family took against his concert promoter has found Dr. Conrad Murray was not incompetent.

It means the Jackson's have lost the case, in which they claimed AEG Live had been negligent by hiring the doctor.

Murray is currently serving a jail sentence for involuntary manslaughter after he administered the anaesthetic Propofol to the entertainer.

Recruitment at Carphone Warehouse for 140 new staff begins

Carphone Warehouse is hiring 60 staff ahead of the Christmas season.

The positions will be available until the New Year in branches across the country.

Recently, the retailer announced 11 new "Carphone Warehouse at Harvey Norman" stores, which generated 80 jobs.

Health minister to launch tobacco-free Ireland programme

The Health Minister will launch a 'Tobacco Free Ireland' initiative later today.

It's expeted to outline the governments plans to introduce legislation and initiatives that will discourage young people from starting to smoke.