Other News In Brief

Committee To Launch Inquiry On Future Of Irish Border

The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee is to launch an inquiry over the future of the country's land border with the Republic of Ireland.

While Prime Minister Theresa May has stated she does not wish to see a "return to the borders of the past", the UK's decision to leave the European Union has caused uncertainty over whether the border will still maintain a Common Travel Area.

Chair of the Committee, Laurence Robertson MP, said: "There is a desire on all sides to maintain the existing open border with the Republic. Our inquiry will assess the different options open to the Government that will achieve that objective, with the aim of producing recommendations and conclusions ahead of the start of formal negotiations between the UK and the EU."

The Committee is inviting written evidence on its new inquiry to be submitted before 21 October, with a view to hold public evidence sessions in November and December.

ROI And NI To Receive Uefa Supporters Awards

Uefa is to present an award to the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland Football Association's for the behaviour of their fans during Euro 2016.

The accolade is being awarded due to "the outstanding contribution of their supporters in making the tournament a success".

Each Association will receive a commemorative plaque during one of their upcoming European Qualifying matches in October.

Newly elected Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin said: "UEFA EURO 2016 was a celebration of football and this is thanks in large part to the passion and dedication of fans at all stadiums in France.

"UEFA wanted to reward some of the groups of supporters that were particularly enthusiastic and passionate during the tournament so congratulations to the national associations who are receiving this award."

Many Challenges Still To Overcome – McGuinness

Sinn Féin MLA Martin McGuinness has said there are still "many challenges for us to overcome" as a new Assembly term begins at Stormont.

Speaking at the Sinn Féin think-in event in Meath this morning, 16 September, Mr McGuinness said the party will be "seeking to build on the good work of previous years" made by the Assembly and Executive.

"We face challenges with ongoing Tory austerity and the fact that Theresa May and her government have no clue what to do about Brexit," he added. "And while the problems with Brexit have been well rehearsed, it also provides an opportunity for a new debate about the constitutional future of our island and our relationship with Britain.

"We need to convince more and more people that their best interests, our better future, is best served by taking control of our own destiny. Look at what we achieved in terms of the £585m package in the Fresh Start Agreement to protect the most vulnerable in our society.

"There are many challenges for us to overcome. and many opportunities ahead for us to seize and working together, we can continue to do great things."

(LM/JP)