Other News In Brief

UUP Calls For Urgent Support For Harland And Wolff Workers

The Ulster Unionist Party has called on the Executive and Westminster to urgently support Harland and Wolff, as its staff faces uncertainty for the second time in five year as it enters administration again.

Speaking as the announcement was made, UUP East Belfast MLA, Andy Allen, said: "It wasn't that long ago that I stood on the picket lines with the dedicated workforce of Harland and Wolff, who were deeply concerned for their future , the future of their families, and the future of shipbuilding in Northern Ireland. Today, these same workers find themselves facing that same uncertainty. While this outcome may have seemed increasingly likely in recent months, we must find a solution that not only keeps this historic shipyard in East Belfast but allows it to grow and thrive.

"The yard is more than just a historic landmark; it has a vital role to play in our national defence, particularly in shipbuilding and maintenance. Given its strategic importance to our defence infrastructure, the Government must act quickly and decisively to secure its future. The workforce's skills and expertise are invaluable, not just to the yard itself but to our broader economy and defence capabilities.

"I take some encouragement from the board's statement that there is a 'credible pathway' for the shipyard to continue operating under new ownership. This provides a glimmer of hope, but it is crucial that the Government does everything in its power to make this a reality. This is not just about protecting jobs—but also safeguarding a key part of our national defence infrastructure.

"I will continue to work with colleagues, both here and in Westminster, to ensure every support is given to finding a new owner—that will make a clear commitment to building on Harland and Wolff's historic success. The Government must actively engage with all interested parties and prioritise this issue. We must ensure the yard and its workforce have a viable and sustainable future."

Casement Park Decision 'Massive, Wasted Opportunity' – SDLP

The UK Government's decision not to provide funding to build Casement Park for Euro 2028 has been described as a "massive, wasted opportunity", SDLP West Belfast councillor Paul Doherty has said.

Following the announcement by Secretary of State Hilary Benn Councillor Doherty said: "There is outrage locally that after months of speculation the UK Government announced their decision not to help fund Casement Park to be ready in time for Euro 2028 on a Friday night. This is an incredibly short sighted move and the way it has been handled is very disappointing given the potential to host one of the biggest sports tournaments in the world in the North. When it came to funding, the Irish Government did not hesitate to step up and contribute and that stands in stark contrast to this decision.

"I understand that the costs of this project have increased, but hosting the Euros and building a modern stadium in our city would have paid for itself many times over. Not only would it have brought tourists flocking to Belfast in their droves, but it would have created jobs and significant economic investment in one of the most deprived parts of the North. We could have created a sporting legacy for generations and memories to last a lifetime. Instead, we get neither.

"When the Euros come to every part of these islands but the North we will realise exactly what we are missing out on. It's damning that this incredible opportunity has been squandered. Attention must now turn to building Casement and delivering a home for Ulster GAA. While losing out on the Euros will sting for some time, Casement Park must be rebuilt and doing so will bring so much opportunity for the community in west Belfast and the wider GAA in the North."

SDLP Newry & Armagh MLA Justin McNulty said: "The team at Ulster GAA put in an incredible effort to try and get this across the line in time for the Euros and to ensure that the North would reap all the benefits associated with hosting a tournament of this magnitude. That this has fallen apart has nothing to do with them and the blame lies solely at the feet of government who have moved too slowly, showed no ambition and now we must pay the price.

"Casement Park is more than a stadium, it's the heart of the GAA in Ulster and it has lain dormant for far too long. The funding for this project was agreed all the way back In 2011 and the delays have had nothing to do with the GAA. Construction must begin at Casement as soon as possible so that we can look forward to Ulster finals, community events and all the other benefits a stadium like this will bring. Those responsible for missing out on the Euros should hang their heads in shame."

SF Welcomes Agreement On Py For Educational Support Workers

Sinn Féin MLA Pat Sheehan has welcomed agreement between trade unions and the Education Authority to implement the Pay and Grading Review.

The party's education spokesperson said: "It's great news that unions and the Education Authority have reached an agreement to pay educational support staff a fair wage.

"This follows positive engagement between the finance and education ministers who worked constructively to find a resolution to this matter.

"Support staff in our schools are a vital pillar to ensuring our children and young people have a first-class education and the very best start to life.

"All our public sector workers deserve to have fair pay and good working conditions."