Other News In Brief

Call For IFA To Ensure Fairness To NI Fans

The Irish Football Association (IFA) is being urged to do all in its power to ensure fairness in the allocation of tickets to Northern Ireland fans for the match v Poland at the European Championships in France in June.

Ulster Unionist Sports spokesperson Leslie Cree MLA said given the amount of calls he had received it is clear that something has gone badly wrong with the allocation of tickets for the Northern Ireland match v Poland in Nice on Sunday 12 June.

He said: "The IFA had put in place a loyalty points scheme that should have ensured those fans who had attended the most games were rewarded for their loyalty when it came to allocating tickets for the games in France. This information was then passed to UEFA for them to take account of when allocating tickets.

"The IFA Chief Executive has publicly stated that the IFA are seeking answers from UEFA and I certainly hope a satisfactory solution can be reached. Many fans spend a lot of money following Northern Ireland home and away, and any business knows that the first rule of business is to look after its loyal customers. The Irish Football Association needs to find a way of ensuring those who have supported them through thick and thin are rewarded for their loyalty."

Electric Ireland Opens New Offices In Belfast

Energy firm Electric Ireland has opened new offices in Belfast.

The offices, based in Cromac Quay, were officially opened by the

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Jonathan Bell.

Pat O'Doherty Chief Executive ESB said: "This is a very special day and one that I am particularly proud of. Many people know that we have been supplying electricity to businesses in Northern Ireland for sixteen years and have worked in partnership with our customers to deliver strong energy products and services while improving energy efficiencies and competitiveness.

"Now it is wonderful to have the opportunity to bring a similar service to the residential market. Our entry into the competitive residential markets is delivering an investment of £5 million and 40 new jobs, something which we know is very welcome in Northern Ireland."

Minister Bell said: "I welcome Electric Ireland's decision to enter the supply market on a full scale basis. Increased choice and competition at supply level is good news for consumers and the company’s investment of some £5million is also good news for the economy. Not only is it delivering 40 new jobs, it is a positive endorsement of Northern Ireland as a place to do business."

Young People Urged To Play Their Part In Internet Safety

Education Minister John O’Dowd is encouraging young people to play their part in internet safety.

Speaking on 'Safer Internet Day 2016', Minister O’Dowd said: "With the increasing use of digital technology, it is vital that our young people are aware of the potential dangers online and understand how to keep themselves safe.

"Events such as Safer Internet Day are an effective and important way to increase awareness of online safety."

The day offers the opportunity to highlight the positive uses of technology while exploring the role we all play in helping to create a better and safer online community.

(CD)