Teenage Boy Charged Following Glider Assault in West Belfast

Police investigating a reported assault that occurred on a Glider in west Belfast on Sunday, 20th April, have charged a 15-year-old boy.

The teenager faces charges of common assault and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

He is scheduled to appear before Belfast Magistrates' Court on Monday, 19th May.

In line with standard legal procedure, the charges will now be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service for Northern Ireland (PPS).

NI Green Party Reaffirms Support for Transgender Rights Following UK Supreme Court Ruling

The Green Party in Northern Ireland has stated its unwavering support for transgender rights in light of the UK Supreme Court's recent decision regarding the definition of a woman under the Equality Act 2010. While the Act itself applies in Great Britain and not Northern Ireland, the ruling has raised concerns about wider implications for gender rights across the UK.

Mal O'Hara, the Leader of the Green Party in Northern Ireland, commented on the issue, saying: "The Green Party in Northern Ireland stands firmly in support of transgender rights. We are wary of efforts to define womanhood, as these have historically been used to restrict and marginalise women. It is telling that such scrutiny is rarely applied to definitions of manhood."

Mr O'Hara emphasised the need for continued advocacy for inclusive policies and laws that safeguard all individuals, irrespective of their gender identity. He concluded by urging solidarity against discrimination: "We must continue to advocate for inclusive policies and laws that protect all individuals, regardless of their gender identity. Let's stand together against discrimination and for a society that values equality, justice, and inclusivity for all."

Economy Minister Announces £3m Annual Funding Boost for City of Derry Airport

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has today announced a significant financial commitment to the City of Derry Airport (CoDA), with her department set to provide annual operating funding of up to £3 million from 1 April 2025. Minister Archibald described the announcement as "great news for the North-West" and a demonstration of her commitment to regional balance. She stated that the funding would enable the airport to plan for future growth in the coming years, emphasising its importance beyond the immediate Derry City and Strabane areas. "The airport serves more than the Derry City and Strabane regions. It plays a vital part in the economic development of the entire North-West," she said.

The Minister also highlighted the positive impact on Derry City and Strabane District Council, noting that the funding would allow the Council to redirect its previous airport contributions towards supporting the North-West’s ongoing competitiveness, trade capabilities, inward investment, and inbound tourism.

Steve Frazer, Managing Director at City of Derry Airport, welcomed the announcement as "pivotal for the future stability" of the airport, allowing it to continue serving as a vital connection point for the North-West. "This announcement ensures we are well placed to continue supporting the regions ambitious growth plans and our continued contribution to the region’s economy," he said.

Mr Frazer thanked Minister Archibald and her predecessor Conor Murphy for recognising the airport's value in providing connectivity for residents, visitors, the business community, and investors across the wider North-West. He also acknowledged the "decades of support" from Derry City and Strabane District Council.

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr, echoed the positive sentiment, stating that the "long-term financial commitment over four years provides a much-needed bedrock of stability." She added that it would allow both the Council and the airport to strategically plan for sustainable growth and development, significantly reducing the financial burden on local ratepayers. "The City of Derry Airport is a critical infrastructure asset that provides connectivity and is fundamental to business and tourism in the area. I want to acknowledge and welcome the Government’s recognition of the strategic importance of the Airport to the city and region in terms of the significant role it plays in economic connectivity and providing local employment," Cllr Barr concluded.