News roundup: the top stories at midday

Noonan says Moody's Irish rating decision "not vital", new $100 million China-Ireland technology fund and construction industry expects to create 10,000 jobs this year.

The top stories at midday

**The top local and international news at midday on Friday:**

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**Noonan** says Moody's Irish rating decision "not vital".

**S&P** removes Portugal from Creditwatch, Ireland eyes Moody's.

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**NPRF and China's CIC** to set up $100 million technology fund.

**Patron Capital** buys Clarion Hotel IFSC for €33 million.

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**Construction industry** expects to create 10,000 jobs in 2014.

**Community Enterprise Centres** create 9,300 jobs.

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**William Hill** forecasts 2013 operating profits of £334 ...