A round-up of today's other stories in brief.
FF to receive rallying call from leader
Fianna Fáil's new general election candidates are tonight to hear a rallying call from Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, on the eve of the party's annual ardfheis in Dublin writes Mark Hennessy, Political Correspondent.
The 25 new candidates, and their directors of elections have been invited to a function in the Citywest Hotel before 5,000 delegates gather in the hotel tomorrow.
The party meets at a time when confidence is higher than it has been for several years, on the back of a number of positive opinion polls despite the disclosure that Mr Ahern had taken sums of money in the early 1990s.
No significant policy shifts are expected to be announced by senior FF Ministers during the one-day ardfheis, which is likely to applaud the Government's performance in most areas. However, drift-net fishermen angered by the Cabinet's decision to ban drift-netting from next year may picket the event.
Male cyclist dies after collision
A male cyclist in his 50s has died following a road traffic collision at Borris, Co Carlow, yesterday afternoon. The incident occurred on the Bagenalstown to Borris Road at the townland of Ballyphenan when a collision occurred between the cyclist and an Isuzu Crew Cab truck.
The cyclist, described by gardaí as a local man, was pronounced dead at the scene. Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to contact them on 059-9773102.
Dublin bike-riders oppose lane use
Dublin cyclists have voiced strong opposition to a plan to allow motorcycles to use bus lanes. The Dublin Cycling Campaign spokesman David Maher said it would be "a retrograde step as it would certainly increase the level of danger faced by cyclists".
Earlier this week, The Irish Times revealed that a proposal to allow motorcycles to use bus lanes had been supported by Minister for Transport Martin Cullen and a pilot scheme was due soon.
The Irish Motorcyclists Action Group had called for the move, saying it would improve overall vehicle flow and lead to fewer motorcycle crashes.
Gardaí seek help in assault case
Gardaí in Dublin have appealed for assistance in identifying two men wanted for questioning in relation to an alleged assault in the early hours of May 18th last. The men were seen drinking in the Barge pub, Charlemont Street, Dublin, on the night before the incident.
Fine Gael appoints Forfás economist
Fine Gael has announced the appointment of Andrew McDowell, currently chief economist with the State agency, Forfás, as the party's new economic adviser. Mr McDowell, who takes up his post at the start of next month, will help to develop the party's economic policy.