The Week

that was

Monday

■ WIDESPREAD water rationing has begun amid fears that reservoirs will run dry as a result of major bursts in the system following Storm Emma. More than 120,000 households have a restricted supply while 10,500 homes have no water at all.

Tuesday

■ GARDAÍ have identified 14 victims suspected of being abused by members of a paedophile ring operating across Munster. It is understood the victims, both male and female, range in age from toddlers to children aged 12. Six women and five men are being questioned by gardaí.

The suspects are aged from their 20s to their 70s and are members of an extended family. Officers said details emerging about the sex abuse and exploitation of the victims were “horrific”.

Wednesday

■ IRISH scientists have made a major breakthrough in the battle against Alzheimer’s with the first blood test that can diagnose the disease in its early stages.

The test can also predict how the illness will progress, and could prove crucial in providing vital therapies. The breakthrough by a team at the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland has the potential to allow people who develop the disease to enjoy a better quality of life for longer.

Thursday

■ IRELAND rugby player Paddy Jackson (above) denies forcing a young student to have sex with him and claims he would have “completely freaked out” if a woman left his house crying and upset, a court hears.

Taking the stand on the opening day of the defence, Mr Jackson claimed that the alleged victim was “flirting” with him during a party at his home. He rejected suggestions he lied when he said he hadn’t discussed with friends whether the encounter was consensual. Mr Jackson denies charges of rape.