The government is to establish a new group to look at the rising cost of claims against the health service.
Health-related claims cost €461m in 2021, with a 20% higher figure expected for 2022
That compares to just €75.3m in 2010.
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The country's leading lawyers were paid over €72m in criminal legal aid fees last year.
According to new figures from the Department of Justice, it's an increase of almost €4m on the previous year.
Two barristers got over half a million euro each, while one solicitors' firm received €664,000.
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Cabinet will be asked to give stronger powers to Tusla early years inspectors.
Children's Minister Roderic O'Gorman is planning legislation to give the child and family agency enforcement powers to deal with cases where serious non-compliance with rules occurs in early years services.
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Ireland can expect an increase in alcohol-related deaths, if licensed trading hours are extended.
Alcohol Action Ireland will give the warning to the Oireachtas Justice Committee later today, as it continues to scrutinise the Sale of Alcohol Bill.
If passed, the new legislation would allow pubs to stay open until 12.30, and nightclubs until 6am.
