SF Hits Out Over Botched RHI Scheme

Sinn Féin said the latest revelation that the Department of Economy has made another mistake over the botched Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme comes as "no surprise".

MLA Máirtín Ó Muilleoir is calling for the full truth to come out.

He said: "This is yet another example of the incompetence which has surrounded this scheme from its inception when cost controls were ripped out of it.

"This latest example of incompetence also underscores the need for the public inquiry under former Judge Coghlin to get to the full truth behind the whole RHI scandal."

Alliance Supports Plans to Recognise LGBT Community At Belfast City Hall

Alliance Councillor Nuala McAllister has supported plans for the LGBT community to be recognised at Belfast City Hall.

The North Belfast Councillor backed proposals for a stained glass window to be opened within the building, recognising the Council's aim to create a City Hall inclusive and open to everyone.

Councillor Nuala McAllister said: "I'm delighted to back a motion aimed at showcasing the positive role the LGBT community has played and continues to play across Belfast.

"Belfast is a city for everyone. A growing city both in size and diversity, support for this project from those elected within City Hall highlights the growing thirst for a vibrant, diverse and open society, from outside.

"A passionate advocate of equality and inclusivity, my vision for Belfast remains as one we can all be proud of. That's why I plan on leading from the front when I become Lord Mayor in a few months' time, placing inclusivity and diversity at the heart of everything I do."

Gilbraltar Must Not Be Used As Bargaining Chip In Brexit Negotiations - UUP

Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson has said that Gibraltar "must not and will not be used as a bargaining chip" in Brexit negotiations.

Mr Nicholson also reiterated calls he made alongside Chief Minister Fabian Picardo, for a Brexit that works for all parts of the United Kingdom and Gibraltar.

He said: "The recent sabre-rattling by Spain regarding Gibraltar as Brexit negotiations begin is irresponsible to say the least. And by including a bogus Spanish claim over the Territory in its draft guidelines for the negotiations, the European Council is being disrespectful, to put it mildly.

"I had the pleasure of sharing a panel with Gibraltar’s Chief Minister Fabian Picardo last year, where we both discussed the need for a Brexit that works for all parts of the United Kingdom and Gibraltar.

"As the UK Government prepares for Brexit, Northern Ireland and Gibraltar will share some similar concerns and priorities. For instance, we both share a land frontier with the EU. However, our solutions to these problems may not be the same, given the fact that Gibraltar currently has a different relationship with the EU than the UK does at present, as it did not include itself in the free movement of goods upon joining the then EEC in 1973.

"Northern Ireland's place as an integral part of the United Kingdom is enshrined in the Principle of Consent. We must also be equally steadfast in affirming Gibraltar’s right to remain British for as long as Gibraltarians wish to remain so."

(CD)