06/02/2023

Other News In Brief

SF Welcome 'Very Encouraging' Reports Of Protocol Talks

Reports on further progress in the talks between the EU and the British Government have been described as "very encouraging" by Sinn Féin Brexit spokesperson Declan Kearney.

The South Antrim MLA said: "Today's reports that the EU and the British government are potentially making new substantive progress towards securing a pragmatic and durable resolution to the protocol impasse are very encouraging. This comes on the back of the British government's movement on the sharing of data on the flow of goods.

"It is vitally important that the European Commission and the British Government officials continue these efforts to resolve any remaining issues so our businesses, farmers and families can be assured their interests will be fully protected and allows the Protocol to work smoothly.

"The political stalemate caused during the last year which has blocked restoration of the Executive has exacerbated all of the challenges which we face in the north. The cost of living crisis continues to spiral and our health and social care service is at breaking point.

"The Protocol has nothing to do with sovereignty or identity. It is the only credible mechanism to manage the consequences of Brexit. We are hopefully approaching a point of pragmatic accommodation; so this a time for cool heads and leadership.

"In these circumstances the DUP has absolutely no justification for its continued blocking of our political institutions. The Assembly should be restored immediately to allow all our local politicians to address the key challenges facing public services, and while the British government and European Commission focus on concluding their talks."

SDLP Welcomes FinTru Investment In L'Derry

The SDLP has welcomed the news that FinTrU is to create 300 new jobs in L'Derry and increase investment in Northern Ireland-wide staff.

Colum Eastwood MP said: "I'm delighted that FinTrU has announced 300 new jobs and a skills development package for Derry. FinTrU has recognised the economic imbalance towards the Northwest, which has dragged on for decades, and has shown its confidence in this area and its people by investing significantly in our talented and skilled workforce.

"Derry needs further investment so that our young people do not have to leave their homes to have a career, go to university and start a family. These new roles and the skills development package shows commitment to Derry and the Northwest, and is a testament to the capable and educated people that Derry produces.

"These roles will strengthen the relationship between Derry and FinTrU which will provide opportunities, improve our economy and create leaders for the future. An added £8.6 million will benefit communities and local businesses and give confidence to other companies who see Derry as the perfect hub to grow globally."

Two Sudden Deaths in South Belfast 'Not Being Treated As Suspicious'

The PSNI have said that while they are continuing to investigate two sudden deaths in south Belfast on Saturday 04 February, they are not treating them as suspicious.

According to reports, a man, aged in his 40s, was arrested in connection with the deaths, but has since been released on bail to "allow time for further enquiries".

It is understood that police are not treating to deaths as suspicious following the results of a post-mortem.

They are continuing to appeal for anyone with information about the circumstances surrounding the deaths to contact them.

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