NI News In Brief

McGuinness Hits Out At 'Gay' Slur

Northern Ireland's Deputy First Minister has joined the chorus of criticism over Iris Robinson's comments on gay people needing to be 'treated'. Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness said his colleague First Minister Peter Robinson's wife should reflect on the impact her comments would have on the homosexual community. Last week the Democratic Unionist Party Leader's spouse branded homosexuality an abomination and suggested it could be solved by psychiatric treatment. Mr McGuinness said: "While Iris Robinson is entitled to reflect her beliefs she also has a responsibility to act with due consideration. Comments that cause harm and distress to any section of our community are inappropriate and she should reflect fully on the impact that her comments will have."

Cookstown Roads Boosted

The Cookstown area is set to benefit from £2.4 million roads investment, announced by NI Transport Minister Conor Murphy. Speaking at a meeting with Cookstown District Council, the Regional Development Minister outlined a number of schemes taking place in the area. Mr Murphy said: "We plan to spend £1.4 million on various structural road maintenance projects in the Cookstown area this year. A major resurfacing scheme to be carried out this year will be on the A29 - William Street and Oldtown Street, Cookstown.

Womens' Aid Gets Aid

Northern Ireland Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has handed over two Londonderry properties to Womens' Aid. The health services premises were given to the Foyle-based charity to be used for victims of domestic violence. The Minister said: "During my visit to Foyle Women's Aid I have been very impressed by the dedication and professionalism of the organisation and the excellent services they provide for the victims of domestic violence."

Bridge Out

A west Belfast bridge is due to be closed for essential safety improvements. The bridge, over the railway line at Finaghy Road North, will be closed to traffic from Monday 23 June. The work will involve replacing existing walls and fences over the bridge with high standard safety barriers. The NI Roads Service has said, due to the restricted width of the bridge, this work cannot be carried out safely when it is open to traffic. The Road Service has timed the closure to coincide with the summer period, when traffic levels are usually at their lowest.