Midlands Today with Will Faulkner

Gardaí are investigating threatening emails sent to schools across the Midlands, with at least 15 schools in Offaly and Westmeath reporting the communications and authorities assessing their credibility. A new report reveals the National Just Transition Fund created just 183 direct jobs in the Midlands, compared with a target of 1,094, raising questions about the effectiveness of the scheme. The Government and public sector unions are facing renewed pressure to reach a pay agreement following the largest public sector strike since 2009, with further industrial action threatened for October 21.

Ericsson's plans for a new innovation hub in Athlone, major disruption from nationwide public sector strike action, and financial support for farmers facing rising fertiliser costs feature on today's programme.

A nationwide strike involving 300,000 public sector workers is set to take place on Wednesday, forcing the cancellation of the Dáil sitting as the dispute over a new pay agreement continues. House price inflation has slowed to 3.9% nationally, its lowest level in over three years, with the number of properties listed for sale increasing by 12.5% compared with last year. Community groups in Kilcormac are appealing for an end to vandalism following repeated damage to public seating, signage and planting, with volunteers warning that valuable funding is being diverted towards repairs.

More than 23,000 Teachers’ Union of Ireland members are beginning industrial action over delays in negotiating a new public sector pay agreement, ahead of Wednesday’s nationwide strike. Credit unions are warning that excessive spending on online prize competitions and raffles could affect loan applications, potentially reducing how much people can borrow. Birr GAA kitman Pio Spillane shares his personal journey through addiction and mental health struggles, and how the support of his local GAA club helped him rebuild his life.

Former GAA president John Horan has been appointed to lead the integration of the GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association, replacing Mary McAleese following disagreements over the timeline for merging the three organisations. RTÉ could have €20 million in funding restored following Budget 2027, provided the broadcaster demonstrates sufficient progress on its reform and redundancy programme. Renewed calls are being made for improvements to endometriosis care in Ireland, with women reporting years of pain, delayed diagnoses and difficulties accessing specialist treatment.