Two people are dead and seven others seriously ill amid fears that a batch of very high purity heroin is in circulation in Cork.

Ambulances have been called to nine cases in the past 24 hours.

Doctors are awaiting toxicology results but say it’s important to issue an urgent warning immediately before anyone else is affected.

Consultant in Emergency Medicine at Cork University Hospital Dr Chris Luke told Cork’s Red FM that all opiate users need to be on the alert:

Up to 32 jobs are to go at Cork Airport, as part of efforts to reduce operating costs and reverse significant ongoing losses.
/> The job cuts will be voluntary – other cost-cutting measures include a full review of existing structures, rosters and staffing levels.

Cork Airport Director Niall McCarthy says the move is necessary as passenger numbers have been falling over the last three years.

Detectives have been given an extra 24 hours to question Mark Bridger – the man arrested in connection with the disappearance of five-year-old April Jones in mid-Wales.

The 46-year-old was originally detained on suspicion of child abduction – he’s now become a murder suspect.

Police have until around 4 o’clock tomorrow afternoon to decide whether to charge or release him.

Louth woman Jill Meagher will be remembered at a memorial mass in her native Drogheda this evening.

It will begin with a candlelit walk to St Peter’s Church – where thousands of people are expected to turn out.

A 41 year old man’s been charged in connection with Jill’s death – her body was found in Melbourne, Australia last week.

Earlier today, those closest to Jill attended a private funeral in Melbourne.

A man has appeared in court following a protest earlier today in which eggs were thrown at the Tanaiste’s car.

The demonstrations foced Eamon Gilmore and Children’s Minister Frances Fitzgerald to abandon an event to promote a yes vote in the Children’s Rights referendum

28 year old Daniel Kelly of Harolds Cross Road appeared in court accused with breaching the peace and causing less than 200 euros worth of criminal damage to the 5 series BMW.

He’s been remanded on bail until October 26th on condition he stays away from public events where government ministers are in attendance