Other News In Brief

SDLP Praises St Mary's University College

The SDLP has praised the success of faith based education following a visit to St Mary's University College in Belfast.

Leader Colum Eastwood, who visited the College, descrined it as "a beacon of global educational excellence and one of the premier learning institutions on these islands".

Mr Eastwood said: "Schools and other educational institutions which are faith-based make a huge contribution to the lives of children and young people and the communities where they live. Those young professionals who have qualified at St Mary’s have imparted this ethos to children in classrooms right throughout Ireland and across the globe.

"As well as educating our next generation of teachers, the college’s liberal arts and Irish language specialisms are vital in promoting a broad third level education sector which equips young people for skills relevant to both the workplace and life in general. It is for these and many other reasons that the SDLP today underscores its commitment to faith-based education and its support for St Mary’s University College in the future.

"We will not stand for any repeat of the Alliance Party's threats to close the institution from that or any other party."

Campaign For A United Ireland Has 'Ran Out Of Steam' - Foster

DUP Leader and Northern Ireland First Minister Arlene Foster has said Gerry Adams' campaign for a United Ireland has "ran out of steam".

She said: "One journalist summarised Gerry Adams' conference speech by saying 'the batteries are flat'. The reality is that Gerry Adams' project has failed. It has ran out of steam. More and more people see through it. All Gerry Adams has to offer is rhetoric. In 2016 more people than ever support Northern Ireland's place in the Union. People can see that it makes sense politically, economically and socially.

"Gerry Adams' call for any new government in the Republic of Ireland to increase their efforts in bringing about 'Irish unity' is unwise and a step backwards. It would be wholly unacceptable for any new Irish government to give rise to such a campaign.

"As First Minister, my vision for Northern Ireland is within the United Kingdom and I will always work to strengthen our place in the Union."

Rates Discount Deadline Approaching

Ratepayers who pay their rate bill before Friday, 06 May, will receive a 4% discount.

The discount is available to ratepayers of occupied or vacant domestic properties.

A spokesperson for Land & Property Services (LPS) said: "If LPS receives payment in full, in a single payment by the discount day, you will receive a 4% discount on this year’s assessment. You must allow a minimum of five working days for payment to reach us. However, if you choose to pay your bill in installments, please be aware you will not be eligible for a discount.

"I would encourage anyone having difficulty paying their rate bill to contact LPS as soon as possible by calling 0300 200 7801. We will explore each option open to you by reviewing your circumstances and may be able to discuss alternative payment arrangements."