The facility could be built outside Tullamore in Offaly ,close to the existing hospital.

Minister Eamon Ryan says last year figures show that people respond positively to new routes.

The artic chill is taking hold for a couple of days

Councillor Peggy Nolan says that while people are able to access the service locally she is concerned that this is only due to the goodwill of local doctors.

The figures from the Central Statistics Office show that 9% of people in the midlands and mid-west have not used the internet in their lives at all.

Central Statistic Office data shows that in the midlands, 61 percent of those without internet have stated it is by choice as they do not need it.

In 2023 it will offer travel services to over 20 destinations.

8.4 million euro worth of cocaine was seized in Westmeath after they arrived in the midlands via a small plane landing in Longford.