The Big 6 - Tuesday 15th December

Every evening at 6 O Clock WLR brings you the 6 biggest stories of the day

The Minister for Health has said the vaccination of the Irish population to protect against Covid-19 may now begin before the new year. Speaking this afternoon at the launch of the National Covid-19 Vaccination Strategy, Stephen Donnelly said the day was one of hope.

A sheep farmer in West Waterford has had almost half his flock destroyed after they were attacked and killed by dogs. Eithan Harty, from Ballinamult, lost 17 of his sheep to the assault, and had to put down another three of his animals.

Gardaí have warned against a “new social media trend” involving people lying in front of oncoming traffic to prank motorists. The phenomenon, known as “ghosting”, is “extremely irresponsible and poses a serious danger to those taking part” and to motorists, according to Garda headquarters.

70 festivals and events across Waterford are set to benefit from the money after what has been a tough year for the industry. Winterval is by far the biggest recipient of funding with a budget of €429,000, followed by an allocation of €111,850 for festive lighting and €84,000 for Captial of Culture/Music Generation and €70,000 for Spraoi.

48-hours after playing in the All Ireland final, Iarlaith Daly returns to action tonight. He’s been named in the Waterford half-forward line for the Bord Gais Energy Munster under-20 semi final with Tipperary. We will have full coverage of the game - listen here. See the full team below.

The final Late Late Show of 2020 will broadcast this Friday night and will include a host of Irish music stars who are taking part in the virtual Busk for the Simon community. Bono, Hozier, Glen Hansard and Imelda May are among some of the names who will take part.