Other News In Brief

No MOT Tests For Tractors

Tractors will not have to undergo MOT tests, the Department for Infrastructure has confirmed.

The Ulster Farmers Union (UFU) welcomed the announcement after raising concerns over reports that Fastrac type tractors, often used by contractors, would face MOTs if they were used at all on public roads.

Deputy President of the UFU, Ivor Ferguson, said: "This is welcome, since the last thing farmers needed was the hassle, cost and time of having to get an MOT. This would have driven up contractor costs, which would have been a burden for all farmers."

However, tractors being used for commercial purposes outside agriculture may have to undergo an MOT test.

Translink Called To Install Anti-Sectarian Poster Campaign

Translink has been called to install an anti-sectarian poster campaign on its trains and buses after Nil By Mouth offered to donate the artwork and concept free of charge.

The Scottish anti-sectarian group said they would be more than happy to donate the artwork.

Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson said: "Nil by Mouth do a fantastic job challenging sectarianism in all aspects of society. That attempt to eliminate sectarian attitudes and behaviour could translate easily to Northern Ireland.

"The idea of a poster campaign directly tackling sectarianism on buses and trains here is a good one, made all the better by Nil by Mouth offering its concept and artwork free of charge."

CBRE Capital Advisors To Manage New £100m Investment Fund

CBRE Capital Advisors has been appointed to manage a new £100m investment fund.

Permanent Secretary Hugh Widdis said: "This Fund, agreed by the previous Executive, will focus investment in the areas of regeneration, office and low carbon projects to deliver economic growth. It will play a significant role in supporting private sector investment in key areas of local development over the next decade."

CBRE has been appointed to manage the Fund for 15 years. They will lever in private finance and reinvest the £100 million over this period to deliver significant benefits for Northern Ireland.

(CD/JP)