Other News In Brief

'Unacceptable' Lack Of Action On Race Relations – Alliance

Alliance Executive Office spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has said that the ongoing lack of action from the First and deputy First Minister on race relations is becoming increasingly unacceptable, given the recent rise in attacks with a racial motivation.

The South Belfast MLA has said: "With racially-motivated attacks now exceeding three a day in Northern Ireland on average, the time for condemnation solely in words is over - urgent action is now required to address this appalling toll.

"These are targeted attacks against minority communities, who are then being left without adequate social and legal protections given how outdated our legislation is.

"Work by the First and deputy First Minister on updating the Race Relations Order, renewing the Racial Equality Strategy, and delivering a Refugee Integration Strategy is long overdue. We have seen little evidence of this work and are told it may be 2026 before a start is even made on implementing most of it.

"That is far too long for vulnerable communities to have to wait. We need to see evidence of meaningful action being taken to deliver the best possible legal protections, vastly improve relations, and put an end to the fear so many of our citizens are living in right now.

"This requires urgent leadership by the First and deputy First Minister, prioritising the relevant legislation and strategies in the coming weeks, rather than years."

27-Year-Old Man Arrested On Suspicion Of Terrorism-Related Offences

The PSNI have reported that a 27-year-old man on suspicion of terrorism-related offences.

The man was arrest under the Terrorism Act after a seizure of material in Belfast last year.

Detective Chief Inspector Anthony Kelly said: "Our aim is to keep individuals and communities safe from harm, and to disrupt the activities of those intent on bringing violence to our doorsteps.

"We rely on the support of local people and communities, and I would encourage anyone with information, or indeed concerns, to contact us on 101."

SF Leader Wishes Colum Eastwood 'Well'

Sinn Féin Vice President and NI First Minister, Michelle O'Neill, has wished Colum Eastwood well following the announcement that he will step down today as leader of the SDLP.

Michelle O'Neill said: "I want to wish Colum Eastwood and his family well as he steps down as leader of the SDLP today.

"We have worked together as leaders for many years now, to restore the political institutions in the north and in protecting the Good Friday Agreement and the all-island economy against efforts to impose the hardest possible Tory Brexit.

"I look forward to working with his successor as leader of the SDLP in a constructive manner for the good of all our people.

"Sinn Féin will continue to work with all parties in the Assembly and Executive to deliver for workers, families and public services."