Other News In Brief

Micky Murray Appointed New Lord Mayor Of Belfast

Alliance Councillor Micky Murray has been appointed the new Lord Mayor of Belfast, taking over the chain of office from Councillor Ryan Murphy.

The Alliance councillor represents the Balmoral area of the city and has served as a councillor since May 2022. He is the eighth Alliance Councillor to assume the role of Lord Mayor of Belfast.

Speaking of his commitment to making Belfast a more inclusive and caring city during his year in office, Cllr Murray said: "As the city's first openly gay Lord Mayor, I want Belfast to be a place where everyone feels welcomed and included.

"A more inclusive, diverse and kinder city makes it better for everyone.

"I'm looking forward to meeting with groups and organisations city-wide who are working to achieve these goals and to using my time as Lord Mayor to highlight their work and showcase all that is good within our city."

Councillor Murray (32), who has a background in the voluntary and community sector, said supporting those impacted by long-term homelessness would also be a priority for his term.

"I'm passionate about helping those with addiction and other challenges to break the cycle and get the help they need to get back on their feet." he said.

"I want to use my experience to shine a spotlight on what is already being done in this area and to start a conversation about what more is needed to protect and support some of the most vulnerable in our communities."

"I promise to represent Belfast to the best of my ability, with passion, enthusiasm and commitment and represent everyone right across the community."

Councillor Andrew McCormick has also become the new Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast.

A member of the Democratic Unionist Party, Councillor McCormick represents the Ormiston electoral area, and takes over from outgoing Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Áine Groogan.

Tonight's meeting also saw the appointment of new committee chairs, with the meeting streamed live via the council's website.

Appeal For Witnesses To L'Derry Assault

PSNI detectives in L'Derry has appealed for witnesses following a report of an assault outside a bar on Strand Road, in the Waterloo Place area.

Three people, two men and a woman, are reported to have been assaulted at around 10.30pm on Sunday, 26th May. Detective Sergeant Ballentine said: "One of the male victims sustained a jaw injury, which required surgery, after it was reported he was thrown against shutters and kicked while on the ground. The female victim sustained facial injuries while the second male was pushed against a wall. All three victims were left badly shaken.

"We have conducted a number of enquiries in relation to the incident and are now asking anyone who was on Strand Road at around the time of the incident, approximately 10pm, or just prior to or after to it being reported, and recalls seeing what occurred to get in touch. We’re also urging any drivers or members of the public who may have captured footage of the incident to call 101, quoting reference 1808 of 26/05/24 or online via www.psni.police.uk/report. A report can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org"

QUB Awarded Prestigious Athena Swan Gold Status

Queen's University Belfast has been awarded the prestigious Athena Swan Gold status in recognition of its work in promoting gender equality in higher education.

The landmark achievement positions Queen's as the second university in the UK and the first on the island of Ireland to receive the distinguished accolade.

Speaking at an event to mark the award, First Minister Michelle O'Neill said: "This award is a testament to the dedication of Queen's towards creating a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable learning environment. By fostering an environment where all are valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential, Queen's has set a shining example for others to follow. Gender equality is a fundamental human right that lies at the heart of a fair and just society.

"It is incumbent upon all of us – government, public institutions, communities, and individuals – to champion this cause, to stand up for equal rights, and to work towards a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration, but a lived reality."

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: "Congratulations to Queen's on this prestigious award. To be recognised as a standard bearer in the field of promoting gender equality is fantastic, particularly when this is only the second university in the UK to achieve this.

"This award reflects the importance of promoting an inclusive environment where everyone is respected and valued and I pay tribute to everyone involved in making this happen.

"Higher Education institutions like Queen's play a key role in developing a workforce that is fully inclusive and reflective of our community and I have no doubt it will continue to play its part in paving the way for a thriving brighter future for everyone."