21/05/2014

Other News In Brief

Call For Anti-Islamic Remarks To Be Fully Investigated

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness has said anti-Islamic remarks by a controversial preacher must be full investigated by the PSNI.

Speaking after Pastor James McConnell made controversial remarks about Islam, the Mid Ulster MLA said: "This type of hate mongering must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Coming in the wake of recent spate of disgraceful racist attacks against families in parts of Belfast and elsewhere, such inflammatory comments only serve to fuel hatred. My party colleague Caitríona Ruane will be raising Pastor James McConnell's comments at the Policing Board. It is essential that there is a full and thorough investigation of these comments and their potential to generate further racist attacks."

Minister Presents CIPFA Awards

Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry today presented the awards at the annual Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) Awards Presentation ceremony in Belfast Castle.

The awards ceremony recognises the successful achievement of a number of CIPFA qualifications.

The Minister said: "CIPFA plays a key role in supporting government policy and promoting the best practice standards of corporate governance across the public sector.

"My Department is at the centre of the transformation of the economic and social landscape in Northern Ireland. Our purpose is to drive up skill levels, across a very broad front, developing the employability potential of everyone and in doing so, maximising participation within the labour market.

"Skills play a vital role in performance. So, if employers want to increase their productivity, introduce new technology or improve customer service, they need to up-skill their current workforce. Working in partnership with professional bodies like CIPFA, to encourage learning in the workplace, can help deliver that goal.

Two Charged Over Drugs Seizure In Poleglass And Crumlin

Two men have been charged with a series of drugs offences following the seizure of suspected cocaine and herbal cannabis worth £400,000.

The haul was uncovered during searches at properties in Poleglass and Crumlin on Monday. A number of items of suspected stolen property including cameras and car tyres were also seized.

A 30 year old man has been charged with nine drugs offences as well as having criminal property, counterfeit currency and handling stolen goods.

A 23 year old man has been charged with seven drugs offences and handling stolen goods. They are expected to appear before Craigavon Magistrates Court on Wednesday 21 May.

Two women, aged 30 and 55, also arrested on Monday have been released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service.

All charges will be reviewed by the PPS.

(CVS/CD)

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