Evening headlines: Tributes paid as DUP MP Christopher Stalford dies suddenly; and the pandemic cosmetic tourism boom is backfiring

Here are the best stories from Independent.ie tonight.

DUP MLA Christopher Stalford (39) dies suddenly

Christopher Stalford (39), DUP MP for South Belfast, died over the weekend and is survived by his wife Laura and their four young children.

‘I’ve been called a snake, a pig and a female dog’ – Galway councilors slammed for their stance on proposed Salthill cycle route

Two Galway councilors have spoken of the abuse they have suffered in recent years in the performance of their public duties.

The pandemic cosmetic tourism boom is backfiring

People who traveled overseas during the height of the pandemic for breast augmentations, buttock lifts and tummy tucks have returned to Ireland with complications following their procedures, a study has found.

Queen Elizabeth has Covid and experiences mild symptoms

Queen Elizabeth has contracted Covid-19, Buckingham Palace has confirmed. The British monarch (95) has tested positive for the virus and is experiencing ‘mild cold symptoms’ but plans to perform ‘light duties’ this week.

Emergency measures for Irish couples returning from Ukraine with their new babies

Embassy officials have been “working through the night” to ensure Irish families who have traveled to Ukraine to meet their new surrogate babies can return home as soon as possible.

Willie O’Dea plans to write a revealing memoir from a treasure trove of journals he’s kept since his first day in the Dáil

Fianna Fáil’s stalwart servant, Willie O’Dea, has threatened to quit the party after four decades and run as an independent Dáil MP rather than support the party in another coalition government anchored by a confidence and trust agreement. ‘supply.

“It’s not about where you’re going, it’s about the journey itself” – Paul McGrath on how walking helps his mental health

Footballing legend Paul McGrath swapped his football boots for a pair of hiking boots to kick off the country’s latest heritage trail in Co Carlow this weekend. The former Ireland international said walking has become “an important part” of his life.

Wheel clamp release fees will increase by more than 56% next month

Drivers who park illegally are expected to face a further increase in automobile costs next month as clamp release fees will rise by more than 56%.