Other News In Brief

Northern Ireland Start For Giro d'Italia

The Grande Partenza or 'Big Start' of the Giro d'Italia, one of professional cycling's three Grand Tour events, will take place over three days from 10-12 May 2014 and involves routes in Belfast, Armagh and Dublin.

Arlene Foster confirmed the success of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) bid, which was made in association with Belfast City Council, and promoters Shadetree Sports, at an event in Titanic Belfast.

Among those attending were Michele Acquarone, the head of the Giro d’Italia and Managing Director of Italian race organiser RCS Sport; the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Gavin Robinson; and legendary Irish cyclist and former Giro winner, Stephen Roche.

Farm Map Error Fixed

Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill said that the error with some of the last set of farm maps issued has now been fixed.

Explaining that full farm maps will be made available for affected farmers the Minister said: "Access to full farm maps are available through DARD Direct offices and farmers can visit or telephone to get a copy of their map. These maps are also available through DARD Online Services, which will allow farmers and their agricultural consultants or agents internet access to their full farm maps.

"In addition we will make fresh paper copies of these maps and issue these to affected farmers alongside their Single Application packs. Where farmers have notified us of changes needed to their map, these will be included."

Belfast Man Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

A man was convicted at Belfast Crown court on Wednesday for claiming benefits he was not entitled to.

Joseph Farrell (59) of Kirkistown Avenue, Belfast claimed Income Support and Housing Benefit totalling £20,626 while failing to declare an occupational pension. He was given a four month prison sentence suspended for two years.

He will also have to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.

(GK)