Other News In Brief

Sinn Fein Urge MP's To Back Brexit Deal After Business Warning

A Sinn Fein MP has spoken out to urge MP's in the House of Commons to support the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, following a warning from Northern Ireland's business community.

Máirtín O Muilleoir MLA was speaking after the Ibec and CBI (the Confederation of British Industry) Joint Business Council warned that a no-deal would jeopardise jobs in the region, as well as the all-island economy.

He said: "In the latest stark warning from the business community, Ibec and CBI have predicted that a no deal would do significant harm to jobs, investment and living standards."

CEO of CBI, Angela McGowan said: "The assurances that business have been crying out for are broadly provided for in the Withdrawal Agreement, ignoring that in pursuit of no-deal isn't just economic recklessness, it's an affront to rational thinking."

Mr O Muilleoir added: "However, the DUP continues to do precisely that by pursuing a reckless agenda leading towards a no-deal Brexit which will have devastating consequences for the entire island of Ireland.

"They cannot be allowed to succeed. The DUP position on Brexit is reckless and ideological. It certainly is not in the interests of the people of the north of Ireland."

Alliance Activist Helena Young Selected For Local Govt Elections

The Alliance party has announced a new candidate for the upcoming local Government election in May.

Helena Young has been an activist for the party and is set to run for a seat in Newry, focusing her campaign on supporting mental health services in the community and creating new initiatives for young people.

Ahead of the election period, Mrs Young said: "I'm delighted to have the full support of the Alliance Party behind in my selection, and am equally thrilled to continue working hard to represent our community, taking the Alliance ethos of a shared future to as many voters as possible.

"We are all frustrated with the continued failure of the DUP and Sinn Fein to restore devolution in Northern Ireland, or to give those with the right ideas the opportunity to do so. I know you're frustrated because I'm frustrated as well.

"This election is your opportunity to increase the number of Alliance Councillors across Northern Ireland at local Government level, allowing us to actively protect and enhance the services that are still working for you.

"I'm passionate about our area. I raised my family here and want to see the best for everyone, regardless of background. Help me make history this May."

DUP Welcome Plans For WW1 Commemorative Site

A DUP MP has welcomed plans to create an amphitheatre as the centrepiece for the WW1 commemorative site at Brackfield Wood near L'Derry.

MP for east L'Derry, Gregory Campbell said he was "delighted" that a planning application for the project has been submitted, which will "provide opportunities for people to visit and enjoy native woodland in a beautiful and historic setting".

The DUP MP continued: "The new woodland, together with this proposed centrepiece in the setting of the Faughan Valley, will serve as a lasting tribute to those from what is now both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland who gave their lives during World War One and ensures their sacrifice will not be forgotten. The development of Brackfield Wood, which is the only one of its type anywhere in N.I. should encourage local people and tourists to visit this commemorative site set in idyllic woodland."



(JG/CM)