New figures from the Central Statistics Office released this week breaks down the number of tests, the pass rate and the amount of test no shows per county.

Cllr Tom Crosby was speaking as the local authority confirmed it was seeking a contractor for the €6m project.

And the National Treatment Purchase Fund says 241 adults are waiting at least six months for inpatient care.

Guo Zhong Chen, of 9 Belvedere Terrace, Mullingar will make his first appearance at Longford Circuit Criminal Court today, following numerous appearances in Longford District Court.