It starts in Drogheda and also goes through Carrigallen, Mohill and Carrick-on-Shannon.

Gareth Scahill told the Seanad the blazes in Gortaganny caused extensive damage over the weekend.

Planning documents seen by Shannonside FM News state the proposal had the potential to endanger public safety by reason of traffic hazard or obstruction of road users.

Residents paid tribute to the supportive nature and kindness of staff, but highlighted issues with the mobile home accommodation units.

The 155.5km stage from Drogheda is expected to finish in the north Roscommon town between 2 and 4 pm.

Dan O'Shea from Fort Hill has beaten over 2,700 apprentices from across the UK and Ireland to be named this year's Screwfix Trade Apprentice champion.

Roscommon received €18 million, while Longford and Leitrim LEADER Partnerships have had €15 and 14 million respectively allocated to them.

Around 145 cyclists from Ireland, the UK, Mexico, Germany, and other countries will take part.