EVERY MORNING, TheJournal.ie brings you the stories you need to know as you start your day.

1. #TENSIONS: The master of the National Maternity Hospital has said their services will be “entirely independent” as the board is due to meet later today.

2. #TERROR ATTACKS: Gardaí warned they’re not prepared for terror attacks, claim Irish airports are particularly vulnerable with only three detectives on duty.

3. #OUCH: The Central Bank has fined AIB nearly €2.3 million for a series of anti-money laundering and terrorist financing compliance failures.

4. #MYTHBUSTER: There is no link between consumption of saturated fat and health issues like coronary heart disease and type two diabetes.

5. #DONALD TRUMP: With the funding for his wall about to run out, US lawmakers inched closer to a deal last night.

6. #TISSUE PAPER: Irish Rail has cracked down on illegal and aggressive begging which has been happening on train routes in the greater Dublin area.

7. #ROADWORKS: A third lane is badly needed on the N11/M11 roadway to tackle increased traffic congestion.

8. #BORDER COMMUNITIES: A letter has been delivered to the Taoiseach calling on him to demand a special status for the North in upcoming Brexit talks.

9. #SADDENED: United Airlines have been landed with yet more negative headlines after a giant rabbit died in the hold of one of its planes.