The work done for the young and homeless by Father Declan Collins (41), who was murdered in Johannesburg, South Africa, nearly two weeks ago, was outlined at his funeral Mass yesterday.
The priest grew up at Baltray, outside Drogheda, and hundreds of mourners paid their last respects in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Termonfeckin.
Father Collins was a member of the Salesian order and over 50 priests, many from South Africa, concelebrated the Requiem Mass. The Catholic Primate, Archbishop Sean Brady, presided.
Winter vomiting virus worsens
The Southern Health Board is restricting visitors to Cork University Hospital to next of kin only and has barred children altogether because of a serious outbreak of winter vomiting virus, which is continuing to escalate at the hospital.
The board has also asked the public not to visit other general community hospitals or nursing homes in Kerry and Cork in an attempt to contain the disease.
Hospital celebrates 50th anniversary
A special photomontage showcasing the history of Waterford Regional Hospital is to be unveiled as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations.
The Waterford Healing Arts Trust, which aims to improve the quality of life for patients, staff and visitors through exposure to the arts, is co-ordinating the photographic representation of the hospital down through the ages.
Concern over funds to protect coastline
Business leaders, fishermen and hoteliers in Courtown, Co Wexford, have met amid growing concerns over rapid coastal erosion in the area.
Concern has been expressed about the availability of funds to complete the necessary works to protect the coastline, which are expected to cost upwards of €5 million.