From Wednesday, the Criminal Justice Miscellaneous Provisions Act increases the maximum sentence for assaulting or threatening to assault a garda or other on-duty emergency worker from seven to 12 years.

Deputy Smith believes that all students must be able to avail of the €1,000 reduction in student contribution fees.

The Fianna Fáil politician also criticised what he termed "lazy policing" for suggesting that the government "could suddenly find a pile of money for extra speed vans".

Members of Cavan County Council have called on the CMETB to reverse the decision to close St Mogue's and St Bricin's Colleges.

Deputy Smyth said helping the public with the rising cost of living is also a budgetary priority for the party.

It enables an applicant to borrow up to 90% of the value of the property where they have proof of insufficient mortgage offers of finance from two regulated financial providers.

'The committee will discuss the second Grant Thornton report into governance issues at the broadcaster'

Sinn Fein appears to be enjoying a boost arising from its performance at the local elections in Northern Ireland.