Cork city residents and Friends of the Irish Environment question management of issue

Global talks in Brazil take place against a grim political and scientific backdrop, as Donald Trump rejects climate change as a ‘con job’ and even the host country’s credentials are in doubt

Study also finds experience of maths in primary school is key influence on later subject choices

Letter signed by academics, NGOs and medics alleges breach of public service obligations

Rule of Law Index warns of executive overreach eroding courts and freedoms

Public responded well to Asian hornet alert but tougher regulations and better education needed

Irish farming organisations remain opposed to the deal over fears that beef would come into the EU at cheaper prices

Councils urged to get tougher on water pollution and smoky fuels as EPA says more enforcement needed

Projects aim to show how ‘no net loss’ of biodiversity can become the norm in the built environment

There will be frequent showers over the weekend

Housing committee heard of difficulties bringing buildings back into use to ease homelessness

Review of Ireland’s most severe storm found lives were protected but aftermath was hard

Expert says prevention measures, that could include alert system and more surveillance, need to be stepped up

Stress added by poor sewage control and interference with river structures

Advisers want conditions added to planning laws to conserve and enhance biodiversity