Party leader Mary-Lou McDonald says it makes sense for Sinn Féin to connect with the public in the midlands.

Included in the application is the proposed development of a creche building for 60 children.

The drugs were contained in parcels delivered from the Netherlands.

Marina Quarter Ltd, who have permission for an overall larger residential development, is seeking to construct the homes.

Westmeath County planners are due to make a decision on the development in December.

15 incidents on the stretch between Athlone and Ballinasloe were categorised as high priority involving accidents, vehicles on fire, or obstructions.

Esker House in Athlone operates the region's only 24 hour support line for victims of Domestic Abuse.

The needles, believed to have been discarded by drug users, were found in the Battery Bridge area of the town.