News roundup: the top stories at midday

Dublin property prices to rise further in 2014, CRH confirms Manifold as new CEO and small firms "cautiously optimistic" about the future.

The top stories at midday

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

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**Dublin** property prices forecast to rise further in 2014.

**CRH** confirms Albert Manifold succeeded Myles Lee as CEO.

**Small firms** "cautiously optimistic" about the future - ISME.

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**Irish** manufacturing expands in December for seventh month.

**Euro zone** manufacturing expands for sixth month in December.

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**Snapchat** hack believed to have hit 4.6 million users.

**Fiat** agrees to buy rest of Chrysler ...