The turnout for the first elections to the new teaching council was just 40 per cent, it emerged last night, writes John Downes.
The council is to supervise and monitor standards in the profession.
Mr Tommy Glynn, a candidate at second level, and Mr Milo Wals, a candidate at primary level, were last night deemed elected.
Some initial reports suggested Ms Susie Hall, ASTI president, was facing a battle to win a seat in the community and comprehensive sector. However, later reports indicated she would likely gain a seat on the council.
Ahern selected as 'Statesman of Year'
The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, has been selected as Statesman of the Year by the Brussels-based European Voice newspaper.
The paper, which is published by the Economist Group, will make the award in recognition of his work "in resurrecting and then resolving negotiations on the the European constitution" during Ireland's EU presidency.
EPA tendering process to begin
The Minister for the Environment, Mr Roche, has given the go-ahead for the tendering process for the Environmental Protection Agency's new regional inspectorate which is to be based at Seville Lodge, Callan Road, Kilkenny. The estimated cost of the project is €4.64 million, writes Tim O'Brien.
The new premises will provide facilities for enhanced environmental enforcement as well as public access to EPA records.