Other News In Brief

Alliance Calls For Support For People's Vote In Brexit

Alliance Belfast Councillor Kate Nicholl has called for a People's Vote on Brexit, as she revealed she will be urging all parties to back a motion on the issue at Monday's Council meeting. 

Following the initial meeting of the Council's Brexit Committee in August, the motion is part of a larger push by Alliance to address the impact of Brexit on citizens across Northern Ireland. Leading on the issue in Belfast, Councillor Nicholl joins her colleague Councillor Gavin Walker in Ards and North Down, who has tabled a similar motion which has been referred for further discussion at Committee level.

The People's Vote can allow the electorate of the UK to have a voice in deciding to accept any deal negotiated with the UK or to stay in the EU, or in the event of no deal to decide between leaving and remaining in the EU. 

Cllr Nicholl said: "Brexit is a huge act of self-harm for the UK, with significant damage facing Northern Ireland. Across the UK, there is considerable evidence of people demanding the right to have their say on what now happens. We were sold false promises and fed lies in the referendum and since then, the risks, dangers and implications of Brexit - especially a no deal - have become even clearer. People didn't vote to wreck the economy or to have a crisis in the health service.

"There is support across the political spectrum for a People's Vote. It would be a tragedy if the UK was now dragged over the cliff edge if that is not what the electorate wish. People must have their say before any deal is finalised.

"Belfast now has the opportunity to join with many Councils across the UK in passing a resolution in favour of the People's Vote. This is a campaign that is gaining real momentum."

BBC Proms In The Park Announced For 08 September

Music legend Midge Ure, Broadway star Kim Criswell, classical guitar supremo Xuefei Yang and internationally acclaimed mandolin virtuoso Avi Avital have been announced for BBC Proms in the Park in Belfast on Saturday 08 September.

The concert is BBC NI's biggest outside broadcast event of the year, offering both home-grown and international talent performing alongside the Ulster Orchestra under the baton of David Brophy. Now in its 17th year, it's supported by Belfast City Council and remains one of BBC Northern Ireland's most ambitious, and popular outside broadcasts. Approximately 11,000 people are expected to attend the event at the Titanic Slipways, Belfast.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Deirdre Hargey said: "We're absolutely delighted to see the 'BBC Proms in the Park' back in Belfast after its short one-year absence. The concert is such a fantastic event, showcasing some of our finest musicians alongside world-class international guest stars, all against the wonderful backdrop of Titanic Belfast. It's a marvellous opportunity for our city to shine, and I am sure that this year's Proms will be another stunning success."

Police Appeal For Information On Ballymena Stabbing

Police in Ballymena have appealed for information on a stabbing incident in the early hours of Sunday morning.

A man was found with a stab wound close to Harryville Bridge, between Larne Road and Queen Street shortly before 4am.

The man was treated in hospital for his wounds.

Anyone who was in the vicinity of either Larne Road or Queen Street and witnessed the incident is asked to contact police in Ballymena.

(MH/CM)