Other News In Brief

Mortage Crash

The rate of mortgage growth in Ireland is now at its lowest level in 22 years, according to the latest statistics from the Central Bank. The bank says the growth in mortgage lending last year was 5.8%, the lowest increase since 1986.

Murder Case Probe Continues

Two men were arrested yesterday morning in relation to the investigation into the murder of Shane Geoghegan in Limerick on the 9th November last. One was arrested in the Limerick area and one was arrested in Dublin. They were detained under section 30 of The Offences Against The State Act at Roxboro Road and Clondalkin Garda Stations. Both were released without charge yesterday evening and a file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions in relation to their detentions.

Major Blaze At Dublin Industrial Estate

Extensive damage has been caused to a Dublin industrial estate during a major late night fire. Seven fire crews were called to tackle the blaze at the JFK Industrial Estate on the outskirts of the city. Foam and water tankers were used at scene. It is believed the fire started in the Bluebell facility at around 6pm. The blaze was brought under control at around 10pm. No one was injured, but the Colfix building at the industrial estate sustained extensive damage.

Murder Trial Underway

A 21-year-old man is to appear before Limerick District Court this morning in relation to the murder of Gareth Grant. The Gardai Press Office said the case is on foot of the death of Gareth Grant (25) who was shot on St Ita Street, St Marys Park, Limerick on 8th October 2007 and pronounced dead in the Mid Western Regional Hospital a short time later.

Rooms Are Good Value

Hoteliers and business people in the North West are insisting that the region represents value for money. With a recent downturn in the number of tourists to the region there are claims that prices here are too high and not reflecting value for money. However, such claims come amidst the release of the official 'Hospitality Hotel Tracker Index' which shows that the average cost of a double room in an average Irish hotel now stands at €107 per night. This compares to €153 per night for the same time last year. In comparision, the average price of a hotel room in the North West in 2009 is expected to be in the region of €70 - representing very good value, hoteliers insist.

Dubln Murder Case For Court

As part of the investigation into the murder of Dara McCormack at Whitestown Park, Hartstown, Dublin in early 2006, a 28-year-old man is to appear at Blanchardstown District Court this morning, charged in connection with this investigation.

Water Row Hits Farms

Farmers' representitives will meet with County Manager Michael Mc Loone this afternoon in a bid to resolve the ongoing row over water charges. It's believed a campaign of non-payment by farmers has contributed significantly to a nine million euro shortfall in the county council's coffers. Farmers say they are prepared to pay for the water they use, but they are particularly angry at the arrangements and standing charges for installing water meters, which they describe as a stealth tax. Local IFA Development Officer Davey Keith says they'll be telling Mr Mc Loone that a fairer system must be introduced.

(BMcC/JM)